REB Podcast Network

In this episode of the REB Podcast, InvestorKit CEO and founder Arjun Paliwal joins host Liam Garman to unpack what defines an elite buyer's agent: from data-led investing, to technology and building a culture of excellence. Fresh from winning Buyer's Agency of the Year at the Real Estate Business Awards for the third time, Paliwal reflects on building InvestorKit and the philosophy behind its rapid growth. The conversation explores how Paliwal's background in banking and finance shaped his approach to property investing, highlighting the role of curiosity, data analysis, and strategic portfolio planning in identifying emerging markets ahead of the curve. Paliwal also challenges common assumptions about the buyer's agent sector, warning that many investors rely on inspiration, hype, or simplistic formulas rather than rigorous analysis and long-term planning. He explains that elite buyer's agents differentiate themselves through specialised teams, deep research capability, and disciplined due diligence rather than one-person operations. Finally, the discussion examines how technology, digital marketing, and content strategy are reshaping the 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 of the REB Podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer speaks with Laing+Simmons head of people and growth Jacqui Barnes about the changing dynamics for women across the property industry. The discussion explores how women are now increasingly moving into sales and leadership roles, although challenges such as gender bias and sexual harassment still persist, particularly for those early in their careers. Barnes argues that stronger leadership development is critical for the sector, as many agency leaders are former high-performing sales agents who have not received formal leadership training. The conversation also examines how many successful female agents thrive through relationship-driven prospecting, referrals, and community networks rather than traditional cold-calling approaches. Barnes concludes by outlining the importance of building supportive networks and gathering better industry data, discussing her new survey designed to understand the barriers and opportunities shaping women's careers in real estate.

In this episode of the REB Podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with URBAN X co-founder Steph Kong to explore how their predominantly female workforce is shaping culture, leadership, and performance in real estate. Kong shares how URBAN X evolved into a business with 80 per cent female leadership and a workforce that is 90 per cent women – not through deliberate strategy, but through the nature of roles focused on compliance, process, and communication. The discussion explores how a strong culture, built on clear values, accountability, and constant communication, has helped the business scale while maintaining a high-performing team. Kong explains why creating an ownership mindset – supported by clear key performance indicators, structured feedback, and strong onboarding – is essential for developing future leaders and retaining talent. The episode also examines the cultural challenges that still exist across the real estate sector, including toxic workplaces and ego-driven environments that can drive burnout and push talented professionals away from the industry. Kong argues that emotional intelligence, transparency, and proactive communication are powerful leadership tools, particularly in high-performing teams where conflict and feedback are inevitable. 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, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo, chief economist at PRD, to discuss how real estate agents can harness data to grow their footprint. Dr Mardiasmo unpacks how the explosion of accessible data has changed the balance of power between agents and consumers. Where market intelligence once came from industry knowledge, buyers and sellers now arrive armed with Google searches, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and price trackers – meaning you need to be more accurate than ever. The discussion examines how agents can differentiate themselves in a data-saturated market, with Mardiasmo arguing that value now lies in interpretation, crafting clear and credible narratives. The episode also dives into the risks of oversimplification, the importance of data literacy across agencies, and why business data is critical for smarter resourcing and competitive strategy. 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 Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, REB's Alex Whitlock sits down with Alistair Shearer, partner and head of property management at Belle Property, Mornington and Mount Eliza, to explore the hidden value of property management for your business. Whitlock and Shearer discuss why many property owners don't fully appreciate what their managers do, and how a lack of communication about services can make fees seem expensive. They explain how educating owners about processes and aligning management strategies with long-term goals helps build trust, demonstrate value, and strengthen client relationships. The pair also dive into growth strategies for agencies: how assessing operational capacity, addressing pressure points, and pursuing both organic growth and acquisitions in a considered way can scale a business without creating unnecessary risk. Finally, they cover the human side of property management: turning the manager-owner relationship from transactional to advisory, fostering collaboration between sales and property management teams, and leveraging market trends like high-end rentals and low vacancies for competitive advantage.

In this episode of the REB Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with DiJones CEO Dean Mackie and COO Brent May to explore what it takes to be the "agent of tomorrow" and how you can thrive in the rapidly evolving real estate market. They discuss the speed of industry changes, from anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) reforms and Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) compliance to the disruptive impact of generative AI, and how top agents can balance innovation with the human connection. Mackie explains the philosophy behind agents needing to "unlearn" outdated habits, while May reveals how enhanced databasing must form a key centrepiece of the agent's strategy – allowing them to find buyers before going to market. The conversation turns to how competition is reshaping commission structure and the role of technology in marketing and property discovery, providing a pragmatic roadmap for agents and leaders navigating digital transformation and market consolidation. 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, editor Liam Garman sits down with Lloyd Ernst, founder and CEO of Cloudstaff, for a deep dive into how principals and directors can build scalable, future-ready, and tech-enabled real estate businesses. Ernst reflects on his business's journey, founding companies that have since become multinational, providing insight into how remote workforces that align with local culture and performance objectives are fundamental for growth in today's real estate market. Ernst and Garman then dive into the challenges of building trust and accountability across offshore teams, how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping workflows, and why the next generation of agencies will operate more like tech-enabled service companies than traditional offices. They then explore how Cloudstaff helps companies do this securely, overseeing cyber risks and enabling staff to effectively support the business. Finally, Ernst offers practical insights for principals on how to leverage remote teams of any size without losing control, quality, or brand integrity, and explains how Cloudstaff's tailored training ensures offshore staff can quickly integrate and contribute to business success.

In this episode of the REB Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with Sean Hanneberry, CEO of Professionals, for a candid conversation about leadership, culture, and steering a national network through a once-in-a-generation brand transformation. Hanneberry reflects on leading one of Australia's most recognisable real estate brands through a major rebrand in 2025, unpacking the realities of rolling out change across a vast membership base – and the challenges that inevitably come with it. He shares what it takes to modernise a legacy brand without losing the trust of the people who built it. The discussion explores the tension between innovation and stability, particularly when it comes to proptech adoption. Hanneberry offers a pragmatic view on why not every new solution is worth the disruption, how network leaders should assess risk, and why members should never feel like guinea pigs in the pursuit of progress. Hanneberry also dives deep into leadership within a membership model, revealing how democratic decision-making, playing to people's strengths, and elevating diverse voices can drive cohesion in an industry often dominated by individualism and ego. 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, editor Liam Garman sits down with Michael Nitschke, managing director of Nitschke Real Estate, for a raw conversation about leadership when business survival is on the line. Nitschke reflects on being thrust into the family business after the sudden loss of his father, inheriting an agency with just six weeks' worth of cash left and no margin for error. He unpacks the mindset that kept him moving forward when walking away would have been easier, and the brutal leadership decisions required to keep the doors open. The conversation explores how to lead through crisis without hiding behind false confidence, why openness can be a strategic strength, and how leaving ego at the door can unlock unexpected paths to survival – including decisions that challenge traditional competitive thinking. Nitschke also shares practical lessons for business owners facing their own pressure moments: how to prioritise when everything feels urgent, why courageous conversations are a form of leadership kindness, and the one lesson he wishes he'd learned before crisis forced it upon him. 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 Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, REB's Alex Whitlock sits down with Nick Georges, industry veteran and director of growth at the Wingman Group, to explore how innovation, relationships, and strategic thinking are reshaping property management. Whitlock and Georges unpack the widening gap between traditional approaches and next-gen operators, the influx of professionals from adjacent industries, and why tech-enabled, proactive property managers are becoming essential partners for investors. They reveal how property managers can add real value, beyond rent collection and maintenance, by aligning with owner goals, identifying investment opportunities, and maintaining regular, strategic communication. They also discuss how thoughtful, relationship-driven approaches can transform a rent roll into a scalable, saleable asset, and why those who embrace innovation are best positioned to thrive. The conversation also highlights the emerging "next-gen agency" model, the power of ecosystems within real estate offices, and practical ways to leverage teams, offshoring, and technology to maximise growth and retention.

In this episode of the REB Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with Coronis Group CEO Karuna Mazzocchi for a candid conversation on what it really takes to future-proof a real estate business as the market shifts beneath our feet. Mazzocchi explains why "good enough" is no longer good enough, how complacency quietly creeps into successful businesses, and why leaders must be willing to disrupt their own models if they want longevity in an increasingly competitive market. The pair then put digital marketing and proptech solutions under the microscope, examining what truly differentiates tools that drive performance from those that burn time and money - before diving into when it's time for agencies to make hard calls and change course. Mazzocchi also explores the tension between automation and authenticity, warning that technology should strengthen – rather than replace – human relationships, and outlining how high-performance, human-first cultures can be built and sustained across multiple offices. 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 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.