REB Podcast Network

In this episode of the Real Estate Business (REB) Podcast, host Liam Garman sits down with Josh Phegan to share the top strategies agents need to tackle challenges and seize opportunities in the fast-moving 2026 market. Phegan explains that market cycles have accelerated dramatically, shifting every seven to eight weeks rather than over years, requiring agents to be more agile and strategic. He emphasises the importance of understanding market dynamics, such as days on market, listing volumes, and government policies, to make informed decisions and seize opportunities. The discussion highlights the critical role of leadership and coaching in fostering growth, mentoring teams effectively, and building a culture of continuous learning. Phegan also stresses the value of relationship-driven strategies, leveraging past client connections to generate future business in a competitive environment. The conversation also touches on government scrutiny, noting new compliance requirements and ethical expectations that demand stricter adherence from industry professionals. Phegan encourages agents to invest in personal development, embrace continuous learning, and maintain strong client relationships as key differentiators in a tech-driven world. 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 Business Empowerment Showcase Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with Leesy CEO and co-founder Michael Watson to unpack how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming Australia's real estate industry – and why adoption is now a competitive necessity, not a nice-to-have. Watson breaks down the widening gap between agencies that are embracing AI to drive efficiency, scale, and growth, and those being left behind by outdated processes and resistance to change. Drawing on real-world examples, he explains how poor or careless use of AI can expose agencies to serious risk, making the case for responsible, ethical implementation as a critical leadership issue. The conversation explores how AI-powered tools are already reshaping property management – from proactive rental reviews and rent roll retention to smarter business development and exclusive landlord lead generation. Watson also offers practical guidance for principals and leaders, outlining where to start, how to embed AI into everyday workflows, and why specialised, purpose-built tools will outperform generic solutions. Looking ahead, he paints a compelling picture of the next five years, where AI-driven efficiencies could dramatically increase portfolio capacity, free up time for higher-value client relationships, and redefine what high-performance agencies look like.

In this inaugural episode of The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, REB's Alex Whitlock sits down with Cathie Crampton, LJ Hooker head of property management, to discuss how smart business leaders are scaling their rent rolls - without relying on increased headcount. Whitlock and Crampton unpack the evolving expectations of investors, the impact of market pressures like rising interest rates and suppressed yields, and why property managers who fail to adapt risk being sidelined. They reveal what separates traditional property managers from next-gen practitioners – from smarter team structures and tech-enabled workflows to financially literate conversations that demonstrate real value to owners. The pair also dive into growth strategies for agencies: how optimised rent reviews, retention-focused operations, and strategic acquisitions can turn a low-margin rent roll into a scalable, high-value business. 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.

REB's Liam Garman sits down with Ashby Farrell from WHITEARCH to unpack Perth's explosive growth – and how agents can keep their heads above the water when the number of listings continues to fall. With active listings plunging to record lows and properties selling in single-digit days, Farrell explains why Perth is no longer just dealing with an affordability crisis, but a full-blown supply crunch. He breaks down the numbers behind the shortage, why fewer than 2,000 listings is fundamentally unsustainable, and how this imbalance is reshaping buyer behaviour across the city. Farrell reveals why many property owners are refusing to sell, choosing instead to hold positively geared assets while prices continue to climb – and how this mindset is locking stock out of the market. For investors, he outlines where opportunities still exist, why yield must stack up today, and which city-fringe suburbs could deliver the next wave of capital growth. The conversation also lifts the lid on the realities faced by agents and property managers. Farrell warns of falling transaction volumes, explains why discounting fees is a race to the bottom, and shares practical advice on how agents can protect margins, listings, and long-term relevance in a low-stock environment. 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 the second part of their discussion on the REB Podcast, managing editor Liam Garman and deputy editor Emilie Lauer explore how investors can position their portfolios for 2026 as market conditions shift. The conversation focuses on rising demand driven by government schemes, constrained housing supply, and the need for more disciplined, price-sensitive strategies. The pair urge investors to use the slower summer period to review cash flow, equity, rental performance, and portfolio structure, rather than chasing outdated hotspots.  Additionally, they warn that widely publicised postcodes and AI-driven research tools can inflate demand and erode opportunity, reinforcing the importance of on-the-ground research and experienced advice. Looking ahead, diversification, particularly into commercial property, is emerging as a key theme for 2026.  Garman and Lauer also stress the need for emotional discipline, cautioning against rushed end-of-year decisions, and highlight goal-setting and investor well-being as essential foundations for long-term success. 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, Liam Garman and deputy editor Emilie Lauer break down the year that was in Australian property, examining which markets surged, where momentum stalled, and why demand-side policy is setting the scene for further growth into 2026. The conversation explores interest rate predictions, refinancing options, and the economic forces driving inflation, highlighting why expert advice has become critical in an increasingly complex market. Garman and Lauer also unpack regional performance across the country, shifting buyer priorities, and the rise of the "compromise or miss out" mindset reshaping purchasing decisions, particularly among younger buyers. Looking ahead, they discuss why strategy will be central to navigating the next phase of the property cycle and tease part two of the series, focused on building sustainable, long-term property outcomes in 2026. 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 Podcast, Phil Tarrant sits down with Jonathan Bell, founder of Housemark, to discuss the evolving role of property management in Australia. According to Bell, property managers often form the longest-lasting relationship an investor will have in their journey, making their role critical to portfolio success. Since founding Housemark in 2019, Bell has grown the company to manage 3,500 properties across Queensland and Victoria, focusing exclusively on property management rather than sales. He stresses that investing in people, training, and processes allows agencies to retain top talent and deliver superior service to landlords and tenants. Technology and economies of scale are key to Housemark's efficiency, enabling innovative solutions like roaming property managers and dedicated investment services. Bell also emphasises the importance of treating investment properties like a business, balancing rental yields with tenant satisfaction to maximise returns. Looking ahead, Housemark aims to manage 10,000 properties across five locations while elevating industry standards and promoting property management as a respected profession. For investors, this duo underlines that a proactive, knowledgeable property manager can directly impact portfolio performance, yields, and long-term success. 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.

Host and co-founder of FOUNDIT, Angus Ferguson sits down with Pete Mathews - former REINSW President, REIA board member, leading auctioneer, agency operator and proptech co-founder - to unpack what real innovation in real estate looks like and why discipline beats hype.   From writing 65 letters to land his first role to building and exiting businesses, Pete shares how process sets you free, why he solves his own problems first then scales, and the moment he stopped chasing growth-at-all-costs to put profit and focus back at the centre.

In this episode of the REB Podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with the Rise Initiative's Kylie Davis to unpack why wellbeing has become one of the industry's most urgent issues – and why agents can't afford to ignore it heading into 2026. Davis explains why wellbeing shouldn't feel like just another item on an already overwhelming to-do list, arguing instead for small, sustainable habits that help agents manage stress before it escalates into burnout. Drawing on her own experiences, Davis highlights the emotional toll property transactions can have on buyers and sellers, and why agents often find themselves acting as "first responders" to clients in crisis. The conversation explores how agents can support highly stressed buyers and sellers without absorbing that pressure themselves, why switching off over the holiday period is so difficult in a commission-based industry, and how a gradual wind-down can make all the difference. Davis also challenges agencies and networks to move beyond outdated "harden up" mentalities, outlining their legal and moral responsibility to actively support staff wellbeing. Looking ahead, she discusses the role technology and artificial intelligence (AI) could play in identifying stress patterns early – while warning that human connection remains irreplaceable. 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 Business Empowerment Showcase Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with Kate Bain and Lucy Zheng from National Australia Bank (NAB) to unpack the economic, technological, and regulatory forces redefining Australian real estate – and what agents need to do now to stay competitive. Bain, executive of professional services at NAB, shares a macro view of the market, explaining how rate movements, confidence shifts, and structural supply challenges are shaping conditions across residential, retail, and office sectors. She outlines why resilience has defined the past year, but why complacency is a growing risk as the market normalises. Zheng, business banking executive for professional services, brings the on-the-ground perspective from working closely with agencies nationwide. She explores the pressure points agents are grappling with daily, from cash flow and margin compression to talent attraction, retention, and the cultural tensions around hybrid work. The conversation also dives into artificial intelligence, with both guests making it clear that artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer optional. They discuss how agents are already using AI in marketing, virtual inspections, and customer engagement, and why trust, relationships, and human judgement will become even more valuable as technology accelerates. Looking ahead to 2026, Bain and Zheng highlight succession planning, compliance readiness, and leadership depth as critical priorities, particularly with new anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) obligations on the horizon. They close by outlining how NAB is supporting agents beyond banking, helping businesses future-proof, lift productivity, and navigate the next phase of industry change with confidence.

In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, editor Liam Garman sits down with Giordano Stepancic, founder and CEO of Property Credit, to explore how the company is transforming property transactions with innovative finance solutions and enhanced vendor support. Stepancic explains Property Credit's holistic approach, going beyond funding to support marketing, repairs, and compliance, while giving home owners access to their property equity throughout the sale process. He also shows how agents can move from traditional sales roles to solution providers, turning complex transactions into seamless experiences, helping agents to stand out in a competitive market. The discussion highlights how buyers and sellers can navigate timing challenges, leveraging equity in current homes to secure new purchases, all underpinned by a focus on human connection in a tech-driven industry. They close by exploring the company's expansion across Australia and New Zealand, demonstrating how a customer-first mindset, integrated solutions, and agent empowerment are setting new benchmarks for real estate.

In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, REB deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with A Home for All chair and LJ Hooker CEO Christine Mikhael and committee member Natalie Hortz to discuss how the industry is coming together to address the nation's homelessness crisis. Mikhael and Hortz discuss the foundation's rapid progress, raising over $1 million in just two months, and highlight the often-overlooked realities of hidden homelessness, including couch surfing, living in cars, or moving between temporary accommodations. The conversation also delves into domestic and family violence as a key driver of homelessness, and how the foundation is carefully directing resources to make the most difference for women and children in need. The episode closes with a call to action for real estate professionals and beyond, exploring ways to get involved from fundraising and volunteering to immersive awareness events like "A Night Without Home". 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, editor Liam Garman sits down with Ben White, co-founder and CEO of Ailo, and Jodie Stainton, Harcourts Solutions Group director of property management, to examine the forces redefining modern property management, from new technology to cultural change, and shifting consumer expectations. White charts the sector's evolution across three major waves: the digitisation of paperwork, the rise of cloud connectivity, and now a third wave focused squarely on the customer experience. He explains why this era demands a complete rethink of how landlords, renters, and tradies interact with property managers, and how technology can streamline this shift. Stainton talks about how Harcourts Solutions Group is unpacking new property management models and leading large teams through transformation, sharing why personalised service delivery is becoming non-negotiable, and why culture and team empowerment sit at the heart of any successful change program. The discussion digs into the fear and friction that often accompany technological shifts, and why the agencies that confront this head-on are the ones lifting efficiency, strengthening relationships, and setting new service benchmarks. The episode closes with an emphasis on leadership, alignment, and culture – the foundations that enable property management businesses to innovate, adapt, and thrive. With the third wave of property management now in full swing, White and Stainton reveal why vision, technology and a customer-first mindset will define the next generation of industry leaders. 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.

Josh Phegan, joins FOUNDIT's DAYZERO to discuss leadership, systemisation, and high-performance routines.   Josh, who works with elite agents and brands globally, details the Four Pillars of Knowledge every professional must master and reveals how the best CEOs transition from day-to-day hustle to strategic growth.    He explains why the true value of a buyer's agent lies in skill and transactional knowledge, not off-market access, and the vital rituals high-performers use to sustain peak performance and energy.

In this episode of the REB Podcast, Liam Garman, editor of Real Estate Business, sits down with Arjun Paliwal from InvestorKit to explore the innovative strategies driving success in the Australian real estate market. Paliwal reflects on his team's approach to innovation, explaining how doing things differently and focusing on strategies that deliver results has driven record-breaking growth and a surge in referrals. He highlights the central role of customer satisfaction, showing how creating "raving fans" fuels organic growth more than advertising ever could. The conversation delves into InvestorKit's use of specialisation and technology, demonstrating how focused teams and automation streamline processes and enhance service delivery. InvestorKit recently won the REB Innovator of the Year – Residential Buyer's Agency award. Paliwal also emphasises the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement, explaining how a culture of learning from mistakes keeps the business ahead of industry changes. The discussion touches on broader market trends, including the influence of macroeconomic factors, interest rates, and the ongoing shortage of established property supply on buyer behaviour. Paliwal also explores the evolving buyer's agent industry, advocating for higher standards and professionalism to ensure quality service as the sector grows. 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 Business Empowerment Showcase, editor Liam Garman is joined by two guests from LJ Hooker: Stephan Gervois, General Manager of Marketing, and Jarita Rayasam, Head of Growth. Together, they explore how the network is transforming its brand and sharpening its growth strategy. Gervois breaks down LJ Hooker's major modernisation program, which has relaunched the brand, rebuilt its marketing tech stack, and driven a 105 per cent increase in lead generation. With competition intensifying and costs rising, he explains why automation and a unified marketing ecosystem are essential for agents looking to nurture leads and stay profitable. The discussion also dives into the changing compliance landscape, with Gervois urging businesses to prepare now for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) reforms coming into effect next year. Rayasam highlights the shift toward intentional, sustainable growth, with principals focusing on succession planning, leadership support and joining networks that offer genuine collaboration. She outlines how LJ Hooker's tech, tools and culture help agents build businesses that scale beyond the individual. The episode closes with a look at why alignment, support and modern systems are becoming the key drivers of long-term success in real estate. 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, editor Liam Garman sits down with Super Mover director Josh Chislett to unpack one of real estate's biggest pain points, the chaos tenants and home buyers face the moment they get the keys, and how Super Mover is turning this into a powerful asset for agent differentiation. Chislett explains why delivering a truly seamless move-in experience has become essential for agencies looking to build loyalty and repeat business. He shows how Super Mover embeds directly into partner workflows to enhance brand value and strengthen client relationships, proving that customer-centric service is no longer optional but a competitive necessity. The conversation also explores the transformative role of technology in the moving journey. Chislett highlights how digital tools, process automation, and integrated service solutions remove friction, elevate the client experience, and allow agents to focus on what they do best – nurturing relationships. He concludes by outlining how innovation, human service, and strategic partnerships are driving Super Mover's rapid growth across Australia, setting a new benchmark for the industry and helping agencies stand out in a crowded 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, 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, editor Liam Garman sits down with Detector Inspector's Jordan Kagan Gescheit to unpack the biggest shake-up to Victorian property management in years – the 25 November rental reforms that will force agencies to prove a property meets minimum standards before it's advertised, and how Detector Inspector is helping agents and landlords alike. Jordan breaks down why this recent development is a game-changer: Consumer Affairs Victoria's taskforce can now walk into an open home, review a listing, or audit photos on REA and Domain – and issue fines on the spot if a heater, window covering, blind, or any of the 14 minimum standards don't stack up. Owners and agencies are both in the firing line. The duo then unpacks Detector Inspector's national expansion amid an increasingly challenging rental compliance market. With pressure mounting, Jordan reveals how Detector Inspector built Properly a purpose-designed solution created with major Victorian brands to help property managers meet the new laws quickly. Using guided video capture workflows, property managers and business development managers can record a full minimum standards assessment, send it to Detector Inspector's specialist reviewers, and receive a formal determination – backed by a guarantee and penalty protection. Jordan explains why timing is now everything, why relying on trades to physically access a property is no longer viable, and how Properly provides agencies with the only scalable way to establish a "reasonable belief" before a listing goes live. He also lifts the lid on how Detector Inspector's technology flags compliance issues automatically, accelerates relets, and removes risk for property managers navigating the toughest reform environment the state has seen. 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 Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with McGrath Estate Agents' founder, managing director, and CEO, John McGrath, for a rare deep dive into what separates good agents from truly remarkable ones – and why the next few years will reshape real estate as we know it. McGrath reflects on four decades in the industry, unpacking the leadership philosophies, cultural frameworks, and personal disciplines that have shaped one of Australia's most influential real estate brands.  He explains why remarkability remains the ultimate differentiator, how leaders can clear and create energy within teams, and why reinvention is no longer optional for agents who want longevity. The conversation tackles the sector's biggest trust challenges head-on – from the underquoting culture to the real impact of misinformation – and McGrath makes a compelling case for integrity as a non-negotiable competitive advantage.  McGrath also explores the rapid evolution of technology, warning that agents who resist artificial intelligence (AI) risk being left behind. He outlines how digital tools, automation, and emerging AI capabilities will supercharge service delivery, elevate client experience, and streamline business operations. 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 Business Empowerment Showcase, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with Lucas McEntee, CEO and founder of SaleFunder, rebranded as Riverstone Partners, to explore how real estate agents can streamline transactions and navigate upcoming regulatory changes. McEntee reflects on the company's evolution, from a direct-to-consumer finance business to a service-focused partner for 6,000 agents across Australia, offering solutions such as vendor paid advertising (VPA) payments, BPAY, credit cards, and loans. The discussion highlights the challenges agents face, including administrative inefficiencies, trust account risks, and preparing for the upcoming anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) changes, which are set to take effect on 1 July 2026. McEntee explains how Riverstone Partners reduces a 12-step process down to just three, cutting costs, enhancing security, and allowing agents to focus on selling properties. He also emphasises the importance of understanding AML basics, knowing the customer, and integrating workflows seamlessly. Looking ahead, McEntee shares his vision for the future of real estate transactions, including secure, efficient alternatives to traditional trust accounts and the continued expansion of services to support agents in a rapidly changing landscape. His insights offer a roadmap for agents to operate more efficiently, securely, and profitably while confidently navigating regulatory changes. 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.