Welcome to the REB Podcast Network! Our hosts are regularly joined by some of the biggest names in Australia's real estate and property circles, covering off all the latest news, trends, insights and education. With REB widely regarded as the leading real estate content brand in Australia, we provide unparalleled access to the industry's rising stars and the most revered professionals, the newest tech, as well as cutting-edge developments in the business world.
The technology agents rely on every day is changing fast. From AI and mobile-first CRMs to smarter automation, the next generation of real estate software could transform how agencies operate. On the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, Emilie Lauer sits down with LockedOn co-founders Luke Newton and Iain French to share the story behind the CRM, from spotting a gap in the market more than a decade ago to rebuilding the platform as the industry evolved. The trio explore how the industry's expectations have changed, shifting towards mobile-first CRMs – faster, simpler technology that helps agents spend less time on administration and more time winning business. Newton and French also discuss the rise of AI, the importance of protecting client data, and how customer feedback continues to shape the platform as technology and legislation continue to evolve. The trio also discuss how changing market conditions, compliance and customer expectations are shaping the next generation of real estate software – and what agencies need to do to keep up.
AI is changing property management faster than ever, but the biggest challenge isn't the technology; it's building systems that solve real problems for agencies. Here's what you need to know to stay ahead. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Alex Whitlock is joined by Bairave Jeyasothy and Louis Amon from Managed to take listeners behind the scenes of building one of Australia's fastest-evolving property management platforms. The trio reveal how customer feedback shapes every product decision, why automation has become the biggest priority for agencies, and how AI is changing the way property managers work behind the scenes. They also lift the lid on the technology powering automated payments, explain why trust accounts are becoming a thing of the past, and discuss the challenge of balancing new features with keeping a platform running smoothly. The conversation also explores the rise of agencies building their own AI-powered workflows, the opportunities this creates, and why understanding the fundamentals of technology will become just as important as adopting the latest tools.
The property industry is facing a trust test, with questionable advice, buyer's agent practices, and rushed investment decisions putting buyers on alert. On Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman unpack the biggest issues facing property investors right now, from misleading investment advice and buyer's agent concerns to the rush before major self-managed super fund (SMSF) changes take effect. The pair discuss the growing scrutiny around buyer's agents, questioning whether some business models have prioritised sales over investor outcomes. They also examine the latest developments from the Dashdot collapse, including concerns around upfront fees, investment advice, and the impact on customers left out of pocket. The duo explores why some investors are being drawn towards questionable opportunities, from expensive apartment purchases to promises of easy returns, and why due diligence remains critical in a shifting market. Tarrant and Garman then turn to the SMSF borrowing changes, the rush to secure deals before the deadline, and whether policy decisions are accurately reflecting the realities of the property market. The episode also looks at housing affordability, falling prices, and what a more cautious market means for investors trying to make their next move.
The biggest stories in real estate rarely end with the headline. From industry controversies and market shake-ups to the topics everyone is talking about behind closed doors, REB's new podcast Real Estate Exposed is here to cut through the noise. In the debut episode of Real Estate Exposed, Liam Garman and Emilie Lauer break down the major developments shaping the real estate industry, giving agents deeper context. The pair tackle the collapse of buyer's agency Dashdot and the controversial launch of its founders' new business venture, questioning what it means for trust, accountability, and the wider industry while hundreds of former clients remain out of pocket. The conversation also examines the rush of self-managed super fund (SMSF) buyers racing to beat the August deadline, what happens when that demand disappears, and why some agents are already preparing for a very different market. Along the way, the duo share the stories catching the industry's attention, reveal what they're hearing from agents across the country, and explain why Real Estate Exposed is set to become the go-to podcast for the conversations happening behind the headlines.
As tax reforms reshape Australia's investment landscape, more investors are looking beyond residential property, putting commercial real estate firmly back on the radar. On the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, Liam Garman is joined by commercial buyer's agent Chris Huxter to discuss why recent budget changes have renewed interest in commercial assets and what investors need to know before making the switch. Huxter explains why commercial property has largely escaped the proposed changes affecting residential investors, driving a noticeable increase in inquiries from investors looking to diversify their portfolios. The pair also explore why industrial property continues to outperform, the risks behind chasing high yields, and the due diligence investors often overlook when buying commercial assets. The conversation covers the importance of understanding leases, tenant quality, and specialist property management, with Huxter outlining the common mistakes that can turn a seemingly attractive commercial investment into a costly one.
Property managers are being challenged to think beyond rent collection, with the industry's future increasingly defined by strategic advice, technology, and stronger investor relationships. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Phil Tarrant sits down with LJ Hooker's head of property management for Australia and New Zealand, Cathie Crampton, to discuss how the profession is evolving and where agencies can create more value for landlords. Crampton argues property managers should shift from being transactional operators to true asset managers. She said property managers should be helping investors maximise returns through rental performance, tax depreciation, property improvements, and long-term portfolio planning rather than focusing solely on rent. The conversation also examines the growing role of technology and AI, with automation taking over routine administration and freeing property managers to spend more time building relationships and delivering strategic advice. The pair then discuss the future value of rent rolls, explaining how operational efficiency, strong business culture, and high-quality data are becoming key drivers of growth as agencies look to expand through acquisition.
Australia's property market is entering another period of uncertainty, with the SMSF borrowing deadline, interest rate speculation, and shifting buyer demand all set to test the market in the months ahead. On Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman discuss the SMSF buying rush ahead of the 10 August deadline, what the market could look like once that demand fades, and where opportunities may emerge for prepared buyers. The pair also examine how tighter borrowing conditions are pushing investors towards higher-yielding properties, and why chasing cash flow alone could come at the expense of long-term performance. They also turn their attention to the latest trust account theft case, questioning why fraud continues to plague the industry and whether technology can finally remove one of real estate's biggest ongoing risks.
The days of winning business with an inflated price guide are over. In today's market, accurate appraisals separate top agents from the rest – with those getting the price wrong risking the client, the campaign, and the result. On the REB Podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with Elders trainer, mentor, and coach Sebastian Bonaccorso to discuss why appraisal skills have become more critical than ever as agents navigate a more competitive and considered market. With more than 40 years in the industry and over 11,000 auctions under his belt, Bonaccorso shares why agents must move away from chasing listings through unrealistic expectations and instead build trust by delivering honest, evidence-based appraisals. The discussion explores the skills separating top agents in today's market, from managing vendor expectations, using comparable sales effectively, and building trust from the first conversation through to negotiation and sale. Finally, Bonaccorso explains why today's market is exposing the gap between agents who rely on favourable conditions and those who continue to sharpen their skills, with preparation, transparency, and ongoing training becoming the foundations of long-term success.
The market hasn't beaten great agents. It has exposed the ones who stopped learning. On the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, Liam Garman sits down with coach Michael Sheargold to discuss why today's changing market is separating agents who adapt from those waiting for conditions to improve. Sheargold argues that many agents have only experienced one type of market, leaving them unprepared as buyer behaviour shifts and competition intensifies. He explains why the industry's best performers are focusing on new skills, better conversations, and stronger leadership rather than blaming market conditions. The discussion also explores the responsibility of agency leaders, with Sheargold revealing why coaching, communication, and understanding what success looks like for each team member have become more important than ever. Finally, the pair examine AI's growing role in real estate, why leaders should embrace technology without losing the human element, and how agencies can position themselves for long-term success regardless of where the market heads next.
The agencies winning more landlords won't be the ones simply collecting rent – they'll be the ones proving their value beyond the basics. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Alex Whitlock is joined by Jason Back from Broker Essentials to discuss why property management is at a turning point and what agencies can learn from the transformation of mortgage broking. The pair explore why collecting rent and managing maintenance is no longer enough, with landlords increasingly looking for advice, communication, and greater value from their property managers. Back explains how mortgage brokers built trust by solving bigger client problems, and why property managers have a similar opportunity to become strategic partners in an investor's journey. The discussion also highlights why proactive communication, stronger relationships, and a clear value proposition will separate the agencies that grow from those that simply manage properties.
Fear of missing out is back in Australia's property market. As thousands of investors rush to beat the SMSF deadline, the biggest risk isn't missing out – it's buying the wrong property in the process. On Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant is joined by Alex Whitlock to discuss the growing frenzy surrounding self-managed super funds (SMSF) and why investor urgency is creating new risks. The pair question whether the race to secure finance before the borrowing ban is pushing investors into poor-quality assets, warning against letting marketing hype or tight deadlines dictate long-term investment decisions. Attention then turns to the mortgage market, with borrowing capacities shrinking and investor activity slowing, raising fresh questions about what the next phase of lending could look like for brokers and borrowers alike. Finally, Tarrant and Whitlock explain why investors should look beyond buyer's agents alone, arguing that local property managers can often provide some of the strongest insights into rental demand, cash flow, and the long-term fundamentals of a market.
From 1 July, one compliance mistake could cost real estate agencies millions. The problem? Many still don't realise the new rules apply to them. On the REB Business Empowerment Showcase podcast, Liam Garman sits down with Visibl co-founder Kaan Yüksel to break down the new anti-money laundering (AML) laws now reshaping Australian real estate and why every agency needs to act before regulators come knocking. The pair explain how Tranche 2 reforms extend AML obligations to selling agents, principals, directors, and buyer's agents, with agencies now required to verify the identities of both buyers and sellers as part of every transaction. The discussion explores why real estate has become a key target for money laundering, the costly compliance mistakes agencies are most likely to make, and how technology is helping businesses manage the growing administrative burden. Finally, Garman and Yüksel warn that with penalties of up to $33 million per breach, AML compliance is no longer just another box to tick – it's becoming one of the biggest operational risks facing Australian real estate businesses.
The agencies winning more landlords aren't just managing properties anymore. They're helping investors build wealth, and it's changing what clients expect from property managers. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Alex Whitlock and buyer's agent Ross Le Quesne break down the shift reshaping property management – and why the winners are becoming trusted advisers, not just rent collectors. Le Quesne argues the best agencies are moving beyond maintenance and compliance, helping investors improve cash flow, unlock value, and make smarter long-term decisions about their assets. The pair also reveals the costly mistakes many landlords make, from underestimating ownership costs to overlooking simple upgrades that can significantly boost rental returns. Finally, Whitlock and Le Quesne explain why agencies that educate investors, communicate proactively, and think beyond day-to-day property management will be the ones that attract more landlords – and keep them.
Tax changes may have stolen the headlines, but Australia's property market is increasingly being shaped by immigration, housing supply, and political decisions that investors can't afford to ignore. On Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant is joined by Steve Kuper to connect the dots between politics, geopolitics, and property, revealing how government decisions, immigration policy, and global uncertainty are beginning to reshape Australia's housing market. The duo examines the rush of investors scrambling to buy residential property through self-managed super funds before the borrowing ban takes effect, questioning whether urgency is driving sound investment decisions or expensive mistakes. Attention then turns to Canberra, where the fallout from recent tax reforms continues to divide investors, raising fresh questions about housing affordability, fairness, and whether government policy is solving the problem or creating new ones. The discussion also explores Australia's immigration settings, revealing why a growing mismatch between skilled migration and construction labour is adding further pressure to an already constrained housing market. Finally, Tarrant and Kuper look beyond Australia's borders, discussing why geopolitical tensions are no longer just a foreign affairs issue and how global instability could increasingly influence property markets, investor confidence, and the nation's economic outlook.
In today's market, growth isn't just about growing a rent roll. It's about becoming the agency that landlords, talent, and clients actively choose and actually want to be part of. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Alex Whitlock is joined by Phil Tarrant and Michael Magee to discuss the shift from simply growing rent rolls to building businesses that attract top talent, loyal clients, and long-term growth. The trio pull back the curtain on what goes into creating one of Australia's biggest property management events, and explain why industry recognition has become a genuine commercial advantage rather than just another trophy. Attention then turns to the focus of this year's PMX Conference, building an attraction business, with the conversation highlighting the agencies investing in culture, leadership, and client experience to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. As the profession evolves, Whitlock, Tarrant, and Magee agree that the future belongs to agencies that can clearly articulate their value, embrace innovation, and build businesses people genuinely want to work with and work for.
Everyone wants to know why housing has become so unaffordable. But what if the policies designed to fix the crisis are actually making it worse? On Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman question whether recent tax reforms, lending changes, and housing policies could have unintended consequences for investors, developers, and first home buyers alike. From the crackdown on investor taxes to broader housing reforms, the pair examine whether the government's approach will genuinely improve affordability or simply reduce housing supply and place even more pressure on the market. They also explore Australia's increasingly fragmented property landscape, where Sydney and Melbourne continue to soften while Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth tell a very different story, proving there is no such thing as a single Australian property market. The conversation then shifts to the broader economy, examining how higher interest rates, persistent inflation, and growing employment uncertainty could shape borrowing power, property values, and investor confidence in the months ahead. Finally, the duo assess the potential fallout from changes to self-managed super funds, posing one critical question: if individual investors are gradually pushed out of the market, who will fund Australia's next generation of housing?
Australia's buyer's agent sector is under pressure. But while many see uncertainty, forward-thinking property managers have a rare opportunity to become the trusted advisers investors are searching for. In this episode of The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, REB's Alex Whitlock and Liam Garman unpack the buyer's agent sector under mounting pressure. They explore how ongoing policy shifts and industry instability are widening the property advice gap, and why property managers are uniquely positioned to step into that space. The pair discuss how the collapse of Dashdot exposed deeper issues within the largely unregulated buyer's agent industry, raising questions around business models and the long-term sustainability of the sector. Whitlock argues that investors are now looking for trusted professionals who understand the full investment journey, creating an opportunity for property managers to evolve from rent collectors into strategic advisers who help clients navigate an increasingly complex market. They also examine how changes to negative gearing, capital gains tax, and SMSF property investment are reshaping investor behaviour, and why agencies that align their sales and property management teams will be best placed to build stronger client relationships and capture the next wave of investment business.
Everyone says Australia's property market is cooling. The problem? The headlines are telling only half the story, and investors buying into the panic could be looking in all the wrong places. On Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman rip into the biggest myths driving Australia's property market, arguing that the country's housing story is becoming more divided than ever, with winners and losers emerging simultaneously. The duo reveals why Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth continue to push ahead while Sydney and Melbourne slow, exposing how relying on national headlines could lead investors to make costly decisions. Attention then turns to the federal government's latest property reforms, with Tarrant warning they could backfire spectacularly by squeezing housing supply, making development harder and creating the very affordability problems they were meant to solve. The episode finishes with one of the industry's biggest controversies, as Tarrant and Garman question whether some high-volume buyer agencies are manufacturing competition, inflating demand and putting business growth ahead of their clients.
Most new agents think real estate success comes from branding, social media, and technology, but REB's New Agent Academy made one thing clear: the agents who win are still the ones who master the basics. On the REB Podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer reports live from the New Agent Academy, capturing the key lessons, conversations, and takeaways from an event designed to help the next generation of agents build successful, sustainable careers. The episode explores why relationships remain the foundation of the industry, with speakers stressing that trust, communication, and consistency still matter more than any tool, platform, or shortcut. Attention then turns to resilience, as the Academy highlighted the reality of rejection, slow starts, and the discipline required to keep prospecting when results are not immediate. The speakers also examine the role of technology, noting that while digital tools can help new agents move faster, they cannot replace the fundamentals of speaking to more people, building networks and staying visible in the 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.
Most agencies are chasing scale, acquisitions, and bigger rent rolls, but some of the fastest-growing businesses are doing the exact opposite: staying small, staying personal, and winning clients through service. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Alex Whitlock sat down with Ashby Farrell, director of WHITEARCH, to explore why boutique property management is making a comeback and how a one-man operation evolved into a thriving Perth agency. Farrell shares how frustration with the disconnect between sales and property management pushed him to build an agency focused on long-term relationships, accountability, and a level of service he felt was missing elsewhere in the industry. Rather than pursuing aggressive growth, Farrell said that WHITEARCH has prioritised quality over quantity, maintaining direct contact with landlords and taking a hands-on approach that many larger agencies have abandoned. The conversation also examines the changing Perth market, where increasing consolidation among major agencies is creating opportunities for smaller operators to differentiate themselves through personalised service and stronger client relationships.
