REB Podcast Network

In this episode of the REB podcast, host Liam Garman speaks with DiJones CEO Dean Mackie and Brent May, chief operating officer, about how the company is transforming real estate through technology, culture, and innovation. Dean and Brent share how DiJones is balancing growth with cultural evolution, focusing on building a team that is ready to embrace digital transformation and AI-driven change. They explain how a decentralised workforce allows the company to operate efficiently from anywhere, while centralised operations provide scale and resources to support offices and enhance the client experience. The conversation also explores DiJones’ innovative approach to buyer engagement. Proprietary technology enables personalised, responsive service across the entire user journey, recognising that most buyers are also sellers. Dean highlights the importance of cultural cohesion, noting that the company carefully aligns its team with its vision and values to create a high-performance environment.

In this episode of the REB podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with Rebecca Moroney, CEO and founder of Wayscape, to unpack how agentic AI is set to revolutionise real estate. Rebecca shares how AI can work with agents, not replace them – slashing the time spent on admin and freeing up more hours for clients. She outlines how Wayscape integrates with CRM systems, automating tasks like transcription, CMA creation and appraisals in seconds while maintaining accurate records of every client interaction. Rebecca will also showcase how AI is revolutionising real estate live at the upcoming REB Innovation Summit. She also highlights the importance of data and personalisation, with Wayscape’s small language model trained specifically for real estate to deliver relevant, precise insights. The conversation explores the opportunities and challenges of adopting AI responsibly, with Rebecca noting the need for agents to stay within professional boundaries while leveraging technology to enhance their service. Looking ahead, she predicts that AI-powered, consolidated platforms will become the norm, giving agents faster access to information, more opportunities to serve clients, and ultimately stronger returns. 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, X 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.

In this episode of the REB podcast, host Liam Garman speaks with Craig Deveson, founder and CEO of Properti, about how artificial intelligence is transforming the real estate industry. Craig explains how Properti turns every listing into a “growth flywheel”, helping agents win more listings, streamline the sales process and engage the typically passive 40 per cent of the market. The platform integrates appraisal proposals, social launches, portal amplification and sales workflows, using smart templates and automation to reduce content creation time by up to 90 per cent. A standout feature is the AI-powered agent system, which allows agents to perform complex tasks through simple voice or text commands. Craig highlights that the platform generates leads far more efficiently than traditional portals, often producing 10 times the results for a similar cost. He also acknowledges that resistance to technology remains a challenge but emphasises that principals don’t need to be tech experts themselves – they just need someone to champion innovation. 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, X 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.

In this episode of the REB podcast, host Liam Garman speaks with Robbo Roper, the Aussie Mortgage Guy and founder of Trusted Finance, about digital marketing in real estate and finance. Robbo, who has nearly half a million followers on Instagram, shares advice to agents who are looking to cut through online, emphasising the importance of building a personal brand and creating authentic, educational content to establish trust with potential clients. Robbo will be appearing at the upcoming REB Innovation Summit. You can find out more about how you can take your social media to the next level here. He shares his journey of posting content daily from scratch in 2021, learning through trial and error to discover what resonated with his audience. Consistency and authenticity, he notes, are more important than chasing vanity metrics, such as follower counts or flashy videos. His approach has generated over 50,000 home buyer leads and $1.2 billion in settled mortgages organically, with a social media following exceeding 1.6 million. The conversation also explores the growing role of AI in content creation, with Robbo encouraging agents to leverage technology while maintaining a personal touch. Overall, Robbo highlights that staying consistent and embracing new tools are key strategies for success in a competitive real estate market. 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, X 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.

In this episode of REB Business Empowerment Showcase, Vault Interiors director Justine Wilson unpacks the art and science of property styling, sharing some practical tips on how agents can achieve the best sales price.   Justine explains how buyer psychology drives styling choices, noting that while personal taste is subjective, successful staging must appeal to the broadest possible audience. She highlights current trends such as warm neutrals and earthy tones, but cautions against designs that are overly fashionable and risk alienating buyers. She likens property presentation to a first impression, comparing staging to preparing for a job interview or setting up a dating profile – the goal is to showcase a home in its best light. Beyond aesthetics, Justine outlines how staging can enhance perceived value, transform underutilised spaces, and create a neutral canvas that allows buyers to imagine the property as their own. The discussion also explores the practical challenges of styling, from vendor hesitation to partial staging when owners remain in the property. Justine emphasises the importance of educating clients, positioning staging as an investment that can deliver significantly higher sale prices. Finally, she reflects on the evolving property market and the need for adaptability, stressing that effective styling requires both creativity and strategy to meet shifting buyer expectations. 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.

In this episode, AI expert Silvio Giorgio joins REB editor Liam Garman to reflect on how artificial intelligence is reshaping real estate while transforming human behaviour and decision making. According to Giorgio, AI is transforming the way properties are bought and sold, influencing both consumer decisions and industry practices. He highlights AI’s impact across prediction, natural language processing and computer vision, showing how it moves from passive recommendations to actively shaping decisions. In real estate, AI is boosting agent productivity by automating tasks, analysing market trends and personalising client communications. Looking ahead, Giorgio says AI could independently manage listings, marketing and negotiations, thereby enabling more direct interactions between buyers and sellers. Giorgio advises professionals to actively engage with AI, experiment with generative tools and retrain algorithms to stay competitive. 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, X 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.

In this episode, Dott and Crossitt founder Jared Zak joins REB editor Liam Garman to unpack the complexities and common pitfalls of real estate agency agreements. Jared explains why so few vendors seek legal review of agreements, warning that clauses around exclusive agency periods and “effective introduction” can leave sellers exposed to costly disputes and even double commission claims. He highlights how courts have approached these cases, why many vendors still settle out of court, and the potential for damages if misconduct voids an agreement. Jared also outlines why ethical agents should encourage transparency and straightforward commission structures to build long-term trust. The conversation turns to recent changes in Queensland’s disclosure regime, with Jared sharing how stronger upfront documentation benefits buyers, vendors, and the stability of the wider market. Ultimately, Jared stresses the importance of due diligence for vendors and professionalism from agents – insights that could help both sides avoid disputes and strengthen credibility in a competitive industry. 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, X 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.

In this episode, Harcourts CEO Adrian Knowles reflects on how the real estate industry can balance new technology with the fundamentals of human connection. Adrian explains why tools such as AI and video marketing should be used to amplify an agent’s reach rather than replace their role, cautioning against generic marketing that risks undermining trust. He highlights the importance of training, describing how Harcourts’ academy prepares agents through role play, discipline and rehearsal – much like athletes and soldiers who practise under pressure before stepping into competition. Adrian also discusses the pressures that agents face in such a demanding industry and why wellbeing initiatives are critical. He outlines Harcourts’ partnership with the Rise Initiative and the rollout of the RealCare app across the network, providing agents with mindfulness tools, support resources, and access to counselling to help manage stress and avoid burnout. Finally, Adrian shares insights on leadership, patience and growth, drawing on his own career lessons and the principle of “hasten slowly” to avoid rushing into decisions. 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, X 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.

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman is joined by the CEO of Laing+Simmons and president of the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), Leanne Pilkington, to talk about the challenges and opportunities facing the Australian real estate industry. The duo starts by discussing the upcoming Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) reforms, set to take effect in July 2026, which will require agencies to register as reporting entities and implement policies aligned with AUSTRAC’s requirements. Leanne stresses that while some businesses may manage compliance internally, complex transactions involving foreign investors will need more rigorous checks, and external support may be necessary. She highlighted that AI and automation can streamline compliance and property management, allowing agents to focus on client relationships. She further emphasised the importance of building a cohesive team culture through understanding individual motivations, hiring aligned with company values, and clear communication of vision. 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, X 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.

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman sits down with Mark Nunn – director and principal of Buxton Ballarat and the listing agent for House 3 on The Block – to go behind the scenes of this season and explore why Daylesford is fast becoming Victoria’s hottest lifestyle market. As the listing agent for Britt and Taz’s “Wellness House”, Mark lifts the lid on the features turning buyer heads in Victoria’s “spa country” – from saunas and yoga studios to design-led living tailored to post-pandemic lifestyles. Mark then examines the surge in buyer activity across regional Victoria. In particular, how proximity to the city, improved infrastructure, and demand for short-stay accommodation have all contributed to strong capital growth across the regions. They then turn to why Daylesford, in particular, is now front and centre, thanks to The Block’s national spotlight. They then discuss what buyers are really looking for in 2025 – turnkey properties, wellness-focused design, and flexible homes that blend lifestyle with liveability – and how this informed the strategy for House 3. 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, X 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.

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman sits down with Geraldine Hermens – top-selling agent and licensee at LJ Hooker Dunedin – to uncover the grit, determination, and leadership that have defined her extraordinary 32-year career. From being one of only a handful of women in real estate in Dunedin in the early 1990s to building a market-leading family business, Geraldine shares the mindset, work ethic, and personal sacrifices that helped her rise to the top in a male-dominated industry. Geraldine reveals the strategies she used to outwork the competition, build long-term trust in a tight-knit market, and maintain a consistent pipeline in the days before mobile phones and CRMs. She also unpacks the value of brand alignment, mentorship, and ongoing education – and how these have powered both her personal growth and her team’s long-term success. Now working alongside her daughter in a thriving family-run agency, Geraldine offers practical insights into legacy planning, client relationships, and creating a supportive, high-performance culture.

In a recent Real Estate Business roundtable, Adrian Bo sat down with REB editor Liam Garman to reveal the foundational systems that have underpinned his decades-long success – and why short-term thinking is the biggest threat to a sustainable real estate career. Speaking to an exclusive audience of Australia’s top agents, Bo argued that structure, not spontaneity, is the key to long-term performance, and that agents who commit to a non-negotiable process across prospecting, databasing, vendor management, and personal marketing are best positioned to thrive in a changing market. The roundtable also explored the rise of shallow coaching models, with Bo criticising “motivational slogans” that offer a dopamine hit without long-term change. He instead champions accountability as the true driver of success, whether through a coach, peer or structured system. Bo also warned agents not to over-rely on social media and digital marketing. While powerful as amplification tools, he said they should support – not replace – traditional prospecting and relationship-building. Enjoy the podcast, The REB team

In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Liam Garman is joined by NAB professional services banking executive Donna Kosiek and Harcourts Property Centre managing director and principal Sam Devlin to explore one of the most important – yet often overlooked – drivers of sustainable growth in Australian real estate: succession planning. With a strategic approach and the right support, succession planning is transforming how real estate leaders future-proof their businesses while empowering the next generation of owners and operators. Donna shares how succession isn’t just about stepping away from a business, rather it’s about building something that lasts, using equity exchanges to bring in talent, reward loyalty, and drive expansion. For Sam, this approach has been a game changer. Since joining forces with Aaron Brooks, Harcourts Property Centre has grown from one office to operating across 12 locations, with a team of 200. He shares how the firm’s clear cultural values have helped align shareholders and build a cohesive, high-performing team. The conversation dives deep into the practicalities of passing the baton, from financial governance and cultural fit to the mental shift required to move from rapid growth to sustainable profitability. With NAB’s expert support, Sam’s team has successfully navigated the complexities of succession while setting the business up for long-term success. Tune in now to discover why planning for tomorrow is one of the smartest moves a real estate leader can make today. Enjoy the podcast, The REB team

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman sits down with renowned coach and industry expert Michael Sheargold to unpack the strategies, philosophies, and mindset shifts that have helped shape some of Australia’s top-performing agents and businesses. With a career spanning more than three decades, Michael shares how coaching, discipline, and a clear plan can transform results and reputation across the real estate profession. Michael explains why confidence, courage, and clarity – his “three Cs” – are the foundation for success in today’s fast-moving market. From picking up the phone after rejection, to having tough conversations with clients and teams, and staying focused on what really matters, Michael reveals how agents and leaders alike can build resilience and deliver standout results. The conversation dives into the parallels between elite sport and real estate, exploring how the right coaching, practice, and routine can give agents a competitive edge. Michael also shares a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming Business of Real Estate event – now in its 10th year and set to bring together 500 industry leaders to level up their teams, performance, and growth strategies. Listeners will gain practical insights into building stronger teams, improving culture, and recognising both results and effort to inspire loyalty and lift performance across the board. Tune in now to hear why clarity, confidence, and courage are more important than ever for real estate professionals ready to take their business to the next level. Enjoy the podcast, The REB Team

In this episode, REB journalist Emilie Lauer sits down with PRD chief economist Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo to unpack the current state of Australia’s property market and spotlight the most affordable, liveable suburbs. The duo starts the episode by exploring the market’s response to the previous interest rate cuts and how they’ve impacted demand, supply, and property prices. Asti said that while the first cut had minimal effect, the second led to a modest rise in auction clearance rates, building momentum for future cuts. The duo then turns to PRD’s latest report, identifying affordable suburbs within 20 kilometres of the capital city CBDs. Asti said affordable suburbs are defined as those below capital city median prices but still offer strong liveability, based on factors like low crime, access to infrastructure, and new housing supply. The report also considers rental yields, appealing to both owner-occupiers and investors. In Sydney, suburbs like Guildford and Punchbowl stand out, while Melbourne offers more affordable options in areas such as St Albans and Maribyrnong. While units remain more affordable than houses, Asti noted that the price gap has narrowed, signalling growth potential across both asset types. 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.

In this episode, REB’s journalist Emilie Lauer sits down with Melbourne’s leading luxury real estate agent Sarah Case to share her journey from snowboard instructor to director of sales strategy at RT Edgar, where she now oversees $350 million in annual sales.  Sarah’s path into real estate was unplanned, sparked by a spontaneous lunch and a job interview at Mirvac, where she built a strong foundation in residential and off-the-plan sales.  Known for her unwavering honesty, Sarah believes transparency is essential in real estate, even when it means delivering hard truths to vendors.  She’s seen the industry evolve significantly over her 25-year career, particularly in the shift from print to digital marketing and the growing complexity of educating buyers on rising property costs.  Sarah remains confident in Melbourne’s family home market, though she notes that apartments are a harder sell due to developer challenges and buyer perception.  At the core of her success is a deep focus on relationships, with referrals and client trust driving her business forward. To aspiring agents, Sarah’s message is simple: educate yourself, build genuine connections, and never compromise on integrity. 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.

In this episode, REBAA president and founder of Streamline Property Buyers Melinda Jennison sits down with Liam Garman to unpack the Brisbane market, what it really takes to be a buyer’s agent, and ethical concerns for the industry. The pair begins discussing Melinda’s latest updates from the Brisbane housing market, and how surging demand for both investments and owner-occupiers has driven demand for area-specific buyer’s agent services. They then turn to what it takes to become a buyer’s agent, including necessary certifications, and how REBAA supports their members. Melinda and Liam then discuss ethics in real estate, share some horror stories, and how clients can be sure they’re selecting the right person for the job. Enjoy the podcast, The REB team 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.

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman is joined by Shawn Hayes, operations manager at LJ Hooker Property South West WA, to unpack how mentorship, culture, and a growth mindset can shape long-term careers in real estate. Shawn shares her journey from a 17-year-old trainee in business administration to now leading operations across one of Western Australia’s fastest-growing agencies. Along the way, she reflects on the role of strong leadership, her time selling off-the-plan in Darwin, and how returning to Bunbury helped drive her passion for real estate. The conversation explores how the right office culture – driven by trust, ambition, and personal development – can support expansion, reduce staff turnover, and keep top talent engaged. Shawn also touches on the importance of hiring for fit, and how LJ Hooker Property South West WA has scaled from one to four offices by investing in the right people. The episode wraps up with a look at how younger agents are embracing tech-enabled, mobile-first ways of working – and why relationship-building remains at the heart of real estate success. Tune in now, The REB team

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman recaps his top insights from AREC2025 before sitting down with Mauricio Umansky – founder and CEO of The Agency and star of Netflix’s Buying Beverly Hills – to explore emerging trends in the luxury property market and what it really takes to succeed in real estate. Liam opens the episode with key lessons from AREC, including how agents can elevate their listing campaigns. The episode then showcases REB’s interview with Mauricio, sitting down with the star to discuss what’s next for luxury real estate. Mauricio shares his top branding tips for agents and the most common mistakes newcomers make early in their careers. Enjoy the episode, The REB team 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.

In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, Little Real Estate’s Anne Crarey and Philip Eldret join host Liam Garman to unpack the benefits of operating as Australia’s largest privately owned real estate agency – and how their innovative model is helping agents thrive in today’s market. Anne and Philip open the discussion by sharing how being independent – with 12 offices across three states – gives Little Real Estate the agility and opportunity that franchise models often lack. They delve into the power of career progression, consistency, and streamlined processes that empower agents without the pressure of selling principles. Philip highlights the value of leveraging a rent roll to generate consistent listing opportunities, creating a dependable revenue base for agents and increasing their profile in local markets. The conversation then turns to Little’s “One Team” approach, where collaboration between sales, property services, and support teams leads to better outcomes for clients and more cohesive operations internally. Anne and Philip also spotlight Little’s commitment to training and support – from onboarding and coaching to tech tools, marketing strategies, and initiatives like "Brunch and Learn" – all designed to create a thriving agent ecosystem. Finally, the pair explore how Little’s industry-leading rent roll referral program offers agents a secondary income stream, allowing them to build long-term value alongside their sales performance. Tune in for a deep dive into culture, systems, and practical frameworks that support success in modern real estate. Enjoy the podcast, The REB Team