About Ember

We’re a boutique real estate agency in Melbourne, built on trust, consistency, and genuine relationships.

160+

Properties Managed

80+

5 Star Review

99.2%

Client Retention

<1%

Vacancy Rate

The Ember Experience

Enjoy property management that’s personal, proactive, and stress-free. With Ember, you get one dedicated manager, fast solutions, and the peace of mind your investment deserves.

One Point of Contact

Work with one dedicated property manager who understands your property, your goals, and your tenants — not someone new every six months.

Strong Track Record

With over 160 properties under our care and zero tribunal cases to date, we’re proud that our transparent, professional approach resolves issues early — protecting both client and tenant outcomes without compromise.

Clear Communication

Stay in the loop with clear updates and honest advice from someone who actually picks up the phone.

Long Term Mindset

Every decision is made with your long-term investment in mind — not just ticking boxes.

We Fix, Before It Fails

We don’t wait for tenants to complain. We fix issues early to protect your asset and keep tenants happy.

Quality Tenant Placement

We don't just fill vacancies, we find the right fit. Our thorough screening process ensures you get reliable, long-term tenants who respect your property and pay on time.

Friendly team of Ember Estate Agents sitting on a stylish sofa in a bright, modern office, showcasing professional real estate services in Australia.

Our Mission

At the heart of our business is a simple promise: to treat every property as if it were our own.

We’re here to provide a level of care and communication that’s often missing in real estate. No constant staff changes, no unanswered emails, no cutting corners. Just real relationships, transparent service, and a boutique approach that puts you first — whether you’re renting, selling, or investing.

Our mission is to give clients peace of mind through consistent management, honest advice, and genuine attention to detail. Because your property isn’t just a number on a spreadsheet — it’s a long-term investment that deserves to be respected, protected, and valued.

Our Team

Behind Ember is a family-run team committed to personal service and long-term care. With many years of experience - we bring warmth, professionalism, and a hands-on approach to every property we manage. When you work with Ember, you’ll always know who’s looking after your investment.

Founder

Cynthia Auch-Schwelk

Founder

Marcus Auch-Schwelk

Property Manager

Maria Imbriano

Our Values

Take a look below at some of the core values that shape Ember’s culture and guide the way we operate every day.

We Lead with Integrity

We always do what’s right for our clients, tenants, and partners.

We Don’t Assume. We Clarify

We ask questions, and confirm the facts before making decisions.

We Own the Outcome

We take full responsibility for our decisions, outcomes, and actions.

We Speak with Honesty

Clear, respectful communication is at heart of Ember.

We Celebrate Every Milestone

We acknowledge progress and recognise every team win.

We Encourage Feedback

We welcome input from clients, tenants, and each other.

Our Journey

The journey and vision behind Ember, officially launching her property management agency by Cynthia Auch-Schwelk in 2021 whilst being 7 years in the making. Get to know us better and be part of our story.

2014

Started in Real Estate

Cynthia landed her first role with a simple motivation: people and property. Very quickly, the pace, problem-solving and day-to-day client conversations hooked her. She learned that good real estate is really about care, clarity and doing what you say you’ll do.

2017

Stepping Into Leadership

Three years in, Cynthia moved into a department manager role and led a growing team. It sharpened Cynthia’s skills in people management, compliance and client relationships that planted the seed that one day she would build a business grounded in those standards.

2021

Ember Launched

After several years in leadership, Cynthia outgrown the role. Progress meant creating it, so she decided to launch Ember. Those early days were hands-on and humbling: building trust from scratch, balancing marketing with management, and laying the foundations for a values-driven, service-first company.

2022

Short Stay Was Born

Seeing demand for flexible living and travel, Cynthia introduced a Short Stay division. It broadened Ember’s offering and opened new revenue, without losing what matters most to us: genuine care, thoughtful communication and a personal touch.

2023

100 Properties Under Management

Reaching 100 properties was a milestone, but more importantly, it was a vote of confidence from our clients. The growth came largely from referrals indicating that consistent service and honest relationships travel further than any ad.

2025

Owners Corporation Launched

With Marcus joining full-time in 2024, we had the leadership depth to grow into Owners Corporation (OC) management. From Cynthia’s own time managing OC’s and working with countless managers, she saw the gap: service was often inconsistent and disconnected. We have set out to change that by prioritising clear communication, transparency and partnership with owners and residents sco buildings feel cared for and communities feel heard.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Real experiences from property owners who trust us to manage their most valuable assets

Are You Throwing Money Away on Poor Property Management?

Melbourne property owners lose thousands each year due to inefficient property management. Here's how Ember Property puts your investment first:

Consistent Property Manager

No more repeating your story to someone new every few months. With Ember, you get one dedicated property manager who knows your property’s history, your preferences, and your tenants. It’s a relationship built on trust and seamless communication.

We don’t wait for tenants to complain. Our proactive inspections and regular check-ins catch small issues early, saving you from costly repairs and helping maintain your property’s long-term value.

At Ember, you’re never just a number. We tailor our service to your goals, property type, and personal preferences. That means honest advice, clear communication, and the feeling that someone genuinely cares about your asset.

Quality tenants protect your property and your income. Our rigorous screening checks references, rental history, and financial stability to reduce the risk of damage, arrears, or vacancy.

Modern contemporary house exterior with sleek design, landscaped garden, and garage in Ember Estate, showcasing expert property sales and real estate services in Ember, Brisbane.
Friendly real estate agents chatting outdoors at Ember Estate Agents, providing expert property advice and service for buyers and sellers in Australia.
Spacious backyard with lush green grass, perfect for family gatherings and outdoor activities at Ember Estate Agents.

Get Reliable Property Management​

Don't let poor communication and high staff turnover impact your investment. Our unique approach delivers superior communication and long-term tenant relationships.

Cynthia Auch-Schwelk

Early Inspiration

A genuine love for helping people and beautiful homes led Cynthia Imbriano into real estate. Following her mother’s 30-year career in property management, it was only natural for Cynthia to discover her own passion and talent in the industry. 

Career Journey

Cynthia began in real estate administration but quickly advanced to a leasing consultant role. Her go-getter attitude saw her managing a department by the age of 24.

Client Commitment

Driven by the satisfaction of helping clients navigate their property journeys, Cynthia stands out for her dedication to both landlords and tenants. She believes in offering solutions, doing the right thing, and building lasting relationships.

Changing Perceptions

Hearing landlords’ negative experiences fuels Cynthia’s mission to transform the reputation of real estate agents. She prides herself on exceptional service, communication, and expert advice.

Life Beyond Real Estate

A Mordialloc local, Cynthia loves hiking, Pilates, and wood-fire pizza nights with her husband, Marcus. When not exploring mountain trails with her dogs, Leo and Bodhi, she’s spending time with their two children, Alara and Hamish.

Marcus Auch-Schwelk

Passion for Property and Numbers

Marcus Auch-Schwelk is the finance and tech guru behind Ember Estate Agents. A natural problem- solver with a love for property, he works alongside his wife, Cynthia, helping clients achieve their real estate Is.

Professional Journey

Originally trained as a chemical engineer, Marcus spent five years at Monash University and six years in manufacturing before moving into business and real estate. An entrepreneur at heart, he purchased his first property at 25 and continues to build his investment portfolio.

Role at Ember

At Ember, Marcus leads finance and technology operations and oversees the owners corporation and short-stay divisions. He’s also a skilled sales negotiator known for his calm and analytical approach.

Beyond Real Estate

Outside work, Marcus enjoys tennis, hiking with his family—including kids Hamish and Alara and dogs Leo and Bodhi—and cooking homemade pizzas. He’s always exploring new business ideas and keeping up with the property market.

Maria Imbriano

A Lifelong Commitment

Maria’s passion for property management has spanned more than 30 years, establishing her as a respected and familiar face in Bayside’s real estate community. Her deep industry knowledge and dedication have earned her a reputation as a trusted professional who clients can rely on.

Personal Approach

For Maria, real estate is all about people. She finds genuine fulfilment in building strong relationships and offering personalised service tailored to each client’s needs. Her commitment to delivering excellent results makes her an invaluable partner for property owners and tenants alike.

Heart in the Community

Maria’s connection to Bayside runs deep. Whether she’s working or enjoying a peaceful stroll along the Mordialloc pier, she appreciates the unique character and sense of community the area offers. Her love for Bayside goes far beyond business—it’s home.

Life Beyond Property

Outside of real estate, Maria treasures time with her husband John, their two daughters, and her beloved grandchildren. Life at home is brightened by Ella, the family’s playful fur baby. From family gatherings to quiet walks by the sea, Maria embraces every moment with joy and gratitude.