Synopsis
The Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast is your weekly discussion with the very best agents in Australia about what sets them apart from the rest, and how you can learn from them. Join Tim Neary as he chats to the industrys top performers.
Episodes
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How legislation has defined Qld’s post-pandemic property landscape
29/06/2023 Duration: 32minAntonia Mercorella, chief executive officer at the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ), sits down with host Grace Ormsby to paint a picture of the Sunshine State’s current and future property market prospects. In today’s episode of the Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast, Ms Mercorella discusses how the two pandemic-interrupted years shifted the legislative and psychological expectations of the state’s property market — despite COVID-19 long falling off the list of national priorities — and how these impacts are still being endured. Given her legal background, she also shares her gripe with laws skewed too heavily towards one party in the real estate transaction. In this episode, you will also hear: Should stamp duty stay or go? Will the Olympics benefit Queensland? Grading the state’s current market Make sure you never miss an episode by subscribing to us now on Apple Podcasts. Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (REB Podcast Network) a
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REB Business Empowerment Showcase: Setting the ‘perfect’ reserve price
27/06/2023 Duration: 24minFinding the “perfect” reserve price is the dilemma of every seller, but this expert auctioneer reveals an invaluable insider approach to getting it just right. In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Grace Ormsby is joined by Jesse Davidson, chief auctioneer and director of AuctionWORKS, to talk about how his upbringing in the farming industry nurtured his passion for auctioneering and helped set up the perfect background for his real estate career behind the auction podium. Taking over the business from his mentor in 2019, Jesse reflects on the significant challenges he encountered as he assumed the leadership role, emphasises the importance of pursuing growth at a sustainable pace, and provides valuable insights into the present and future trends of the auction market. Tune in to find out: Why communication is the foundation of a successful succession Tips for finding the best reserve auction price Why winter presents an opportunity for agents to “get a headstart” for spring Lea
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Property as a political play-toy
22/06/2023 Duration: 24minREB’s editorial team unite to unpack the tenuous political landscape that’s currently at play across Australia. Host Grace Ormsby is joined by journalists Juliet Helmke and Kyle Robbins to recount the federal and state government developments that have taken place over the last week, most notably as they relate to the Housing Australia Future Fund and the rental crisis plaguing the nation. The trio unpack the various power plays currently being made by state and federal politicians while acknowledging their wide-reaching impact on Australia’s housing markets, before turning their attention to the RBA’s wielding of power when it comes to national property policies. In this episode you will also hear: What is driving the rift between Labor and the Greens How rent caps and freezes could come into play Why the RBA must recognise its role in housing policies
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Amplifying humanity in real estate through data
15/06/2023 Duration: 41minSarah Bell says data goes beyond numbers — it’s a powerful tool for weaving captivating stories that allows agents to take the customer journey to a whole new level. The principal of innovation and industry at CoreLogic, and named Innovator of the Year - Individual and Excellence Award winner at the REB awards for 2023, sits down with Grace Ormsby to share how she leveraged her background as a researcher to find her career stride in the real estate industry. The co-founder of Aire Software and self-proclaimed mum of AI-powered platform RiTA also highlights the power of data-driven storytelling to enhance the client experience while emphasising that data does not eliminate, but rather imbues humanity into real estate transactions. In this episode, you will also hear: The hidden emotional labour costs in real estate transactions Why real estate deals should not be viewed as project management How data helps create a personalised and humanity-driven customer experience Make sure you never miss an episode by
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THE WIRE: Seek out work/life boundaries, not balance
14/06/2023 Duration: 29minAchieving wellness doesn’t require splitting yourself in two for work/life balance. Alex Borthwick says the secret lies in setting intentional boundaries that enable you to live life to the fullest while maximising your career potential. In this episode, the business development executive for the property management team at BresicWhitney sits down with Grace Ormsby and Sadhana Smiles to discuss her extensive real estate career, which not only took her across state lines but also saw her transition from sales to the property management space. Following a two-year hiatus, Alex shares her journey into recognising the importance of self-care, the unique techniques she has adopted, and unpacks why wellness should be an ongoing and deliberate focus for professionals in the real estate industry. In this episode, you will also hear: The ways to overcome imposter syndrome How to adapt to changes in the market Why having the right mindset can help take your career to the next level Make sure you never miss an epis
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Tenants v home owners: Who’s worse off in 2023?
08/06/2023 Duration: 33minWith current cost-of-living pressures, how is the Australian property market coping? Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) president and director of dethridgeGROVES, Hayden Groves, sits down with Real Estate Business’ Grace Ormsby to give a helicopter view of the Australian property market in real-time. Lending his thoughts on the latest RBA decision, the president unpacks the current state of housing affordability across the country. Comparing the situation facing renters and mortgage-holders, he dishes on which cohort is being most impacted by the current economic climate before unpacking migration patterns and the future of renting in Australia. You will also hear: What future migration may look like Why rent freezes won’t work How build-to-rent will impact the rental market
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THE WIRE: Making every opportunity count
07/06/2023 Duration: 37minLeanne Pilkington believes that when opportunity knocks on your door, it’s crucial not only to answer the call but to fully maximise its potential. The chief executive and director of Laing+Simmons, and deputy president of the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), sits down with Grace Ormsby and Sadhana Smiles to reveal the story behind her rise to becoming the leader of REB Awards 2023’s Major Network of the Year awardee, navigating trials, tribulations, and even ultimatums along the way. She also delves into the lessons in leadership she has learned over her decades-long run in the industry, including dealing with feedback, the importance of visibility, and what it takes to become a successful leader. In this episode, find out: Why communication is the foundation of a successful business operation How awareness is important to drive necessary changes The role mentors play in empowering future leaders
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AREC reflections
01/06/2023 Duration: 19minIn this special episode of the Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast, host Grace Ormsby is joined by REB journalist Kyle Robbins to breakdown the key takeaways from a wild weekend at the Australasian Real Estate Conference (AREC). The pair discuss some of the main talking points from the event, which included eye-opening sessions from Hollywood actress Reese Witherspoon, and Caitlyn Jenner, as well as insightful talks from a number of industry heavyweights, including Alexander Phillips. Make sure you never miss an episode by subscribing to us now on Apple Podcasts. Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (REB Podcast Network) and by liking and following Real Estate Business on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you’d like to lend a voice to the show, email editor@realestatebusiness.com.au for more insights.
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REB Business Empowerment Showcase: Feedback-fueled tech evolution
31/05/2023 Duration: 18minTo maintain agility in technology and its adoption, businesses are advised to continuously embrace and apply feedback-driven insights. In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Grace Ormsby is joined by Lauren Barham, the national products and training manager for Raine & Horne, to discuss the transformative power of technology in the real estate industry over the past four years and how tech adoption can be the key differentiator for businesses to stand out. Lauren gives a behind-the-scenes look of the step-by-step process that goes into developing a new tech product, how it can be seamlessly integrated into a business, and explains why she believes technology will enhance, rather than replace, human processes in the real estate industry. Tune in to find out: The benefits of being early adopters of AI-driven technology Why feedback loops are important in tech development and adoption How to provide the right training and support when integrating tech into business processes. To le
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Connections that close deals
25/05/2023 Duration: 23minIn the ever-changing tides of the real estate market, Angus Graham holds firm in his belief that agents who cultivate lasting business relationships are those who are firmly anchored for success. The director at Hodges - Sandringham, who was also named REB’s #10 Dealmaker in 2022, sits down with Grace Ormsby to unpack how he adopted his strategies to the ups and downs of the market over the last three years. Angus also shares his thoughts on how market trends will unfold and why he anticipates a strong spring selling season in 2023 before discussing his career and business goals. In this episode, you will also hear: How agents can adapt to the changing market conditions The importance of a strong support network Why the “good old phone call or text” is a timeless and effective marketing strategy Make sure you never miss an episode by subscribing to us now on Apple Podcasts. Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (REB Podcast Network) and by liking
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THE WIRE: Let’s talk succession
24/05/2023 Duration: 31minEntering the real estate scene from a different background, Katherine Gonzalez-Cork not only stepped up to take the reins of a brand but has already become deeply entrenched in the business, forging connections with its core values and people. The chief executive of Professionals Real Estate sits down with Grace Ormsby and Sadhana Smiles, to reveal how she transitioned into the leadership role from a different playing field, and talks about “getting the basics right” as the key to running a successful business, regardless of the industry. As succession becomes a critical issue for the real estate industry, Katherine also discusses the importance of starting the conversation around the topic before explaining why succession planning should be a priority for business leaders. In this episode, you will hear about: How a people-over-profit approach can be beneficial to a business The benefits of succession planning Why a business’s strength lies in simplicity
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What makes an REB Top 100 agent?
18/05/2023 Duration: 49minGet the inside scoop on Australia’s top-ranked real estate agents from none other than coach and trainer Tom Panos. REB’s managing editor, Phil Tarrant, and Real Estate Gym’s Tom Panos sit down to unpack the people and the data behind the ranking that sets the standard for real estate across Australia, year after year. Alexander Phillips, Australia’s number one ranked agent for the eighth year running, also makes a cameo appearance, making it a must-listen for all agents looking to up their game!
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THE WIRE: Venturing beyond your borders
18/05/2023 Duration: 32minStepping beyond one’s familiar pastures of comfort can feel like planting seeds on uncharted grounds. But for Lauren Croker, it was the game-changing move that led her to strike the perfect balance she had been seeking. The rural and lifestyle specialist at Elders Real Estate - Goulburn sits down with Grace Ormsby and Sadhana Smiles to talk about how she grew up with “agriculture in her veins”, discusses her deep-rooted connection to the farming industry and sheds light on what motivated her shift to become a real estate agent. She also shares insights on navigating the local market as a female agent, delving into the challenges she faced before providing a glimpse into her future plans. In this episode, you will hear: How rural property markets operate Why it’s vital to have a good support system in your career The importance of having work/life balance Make sure you never miss an episode by subscribing to us now on Apple Podcasts. Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a r
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Reading between the lines of the RBA
11/05/2023 Duration: 42minWith interest rates rising across the country, the common refrain has been to compare today’s single digits to the late 1980s, when mortgage holders were paying 17 per cent. But if you thought that interest rate pain was worse in those days than now, you might be mistaken. On this episode of the Secrets of the Top 100 Agents, host Grace Ormsby sits down with Shane Oliver, the head of investment strategy and chief economist at AMP, who examines the full scope of what the RBA’s cash rate calls are doing to Australia’s economy and outlines why a 6 per cent mortgage rate today might feel the same as the 17 per cent rate of 1989, given the average Australian’s financial situation. The duo also discusses the deluge of information coming from the RBA and why it can be hard to comprehend for the everyday borrower. Shane dives into the data to spell out what could be in store for the year ahead. Make sure you never miss an episode by subscribing to us now on Apple Podcasts. Did you like this episode? Show your sup
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Proptech Pulse: Pushing through the startup pain points to revolutionise PM
10/05/2023 Duration: 22minOverhauling property management takes more than just gearing up with the latest tech. For this start-up founder, reinventing the wheel requires a holistic approach. In this episode of REB’s Proptech Pulse, host Grace Ormsby is joined by Mina Radhakrishnan, the co-founder of :Different to reflect on her career entrenched in “the heart of tech”, how she got bitten by the “start-up bug” and discuss the driving force behind her decision to start her own business. The duo also looks at the different pain points the business has encountered since being established in 2017 and how “feeling the pain” has helped them to have a holistic approach to property management before unpacking the importance of delivering value not only to clients but also to agents and principals in the industry. Tune in to find out: Why technology should provide an end-to-end solution for businesses The importance of transparency and visibility around rent rolls How a holistic approach can deliver an improved experience for agents, tenant
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Real-world ramifications of rising rates
04/05/2023 Duration: 29minThere’s still more gas in the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) rate tank if economic indicators continue the way they are going. So where to from here for Aussie borrowers? Peter White AM, the managing director of Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA), sits down with host Grace Ormsby to run through the “real” impacts of the current rising rate environment, expressing his disappointment in the RBA’s lag and lack of current data indicators. Peter reflects on the resilience of Australia’s investors over the past 18 months before pointing out the potential for more pain in 2023 before rates begin to subside and optimism returns to the property market.
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Delving deeper into the ACT property market
27/04/2023 Duration: 17minIn this special episode, Maria Edwards unpacks the current market conditions in the ACT and how it can rise from being the “victim of its own success” to being victorious. The chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of the ACT (REIACT) sits down with Grace Ormsby to provide insights on how the last three years have played out for the local property market before taking a closer look at the current state of play for agents in the region. Maria also explains how investor confidence got so low, considering it sits against a backdrop of record-low vacancy rates and increasing rental yields. They also forecast ACT’s potential emergence from the housing crisis at an earlier point in time than other property markets.In this episode, you will hear about: Which challenges in the ACT’s property market require attention How consumer sentiment is changing among buyers or sellers and tenants Where Canberra is sitting in its property cycle
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REB Business Empowerment Showcase: Building a brain trust
26/04/2023 Duration: 17minRather than going for a “trial-and-error approach”, new business owners are advised to tap into the power of a reliable brain trust that can help drive their success. In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Grace Ormsby is joined by Daniel Alexander, the managing director of LJ Hooker Southern Gold Coast, to talk about how he made the strategic pivot from being a human resources manager, including the challenges, changes and choices he encountered when he became an entrepreneur. Now with the business spanning three locations and a significantly expanded rent roll after opening its doors almost eight years ago, Daniel talks about how having a group of trusted colleagues has been instrumental in helping the business’s growth and direction before touching on what lies ahead in the next five years. Tune in to find out: Why business leaders need to “invest” in their employees How aligning with a network can be a strategic move for a business The ways tech can help provide the foundation f
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Strength-based team work makes the business dream work
20/04/2023 Duration: 32minWant to build a winning team? For Michelle Stephens, the secret to success lies in seeing someone else’s strengths as a complement to your weaknesses. The sales agent from Obrien Real Estate Carrum Downs, who was also named REB’s #7 Dealmaker in 2022, sits down with Grace Ormbsy to unpack how the real estate market has settled into a “new normal” after navigating through the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. Acknowledging that “no one is good at everything,” Michelle highlights the importance of identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each team member to cultivate a cohesive and complementary work dynamic, which can ultimately position a business for success. In this episode, you will also hear: Why it’s important to take short breaks How elevating the customer experience can drive business growth The benefits of leveraging your team’s strengths
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REB Business Empowerment Showcase: The perks of a rent roll performance check
18/04/2023 Duration: 25minIn this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Grace Ormsby is joined by Tony Blamey, the chief revenue officer at :Different. The duo unpacks the myriad of challenges facing property managers and business owners but highlights that there are still plenty of opportunities for savvy operators to not only win new business, but retain their current customers and gain further market share over their competitors before Tony stresses the importance of regular performance checks in the property management division. Tune in to find out: - Does the “perfect” rent roll exist? - What a rent roll performance check requires - How business owners can gear up for growth You can learn more about :Different and their rent roll checks here.