Consumer confidence lifts auctions, Focus on the foundations for success, Why Canberra’s proposed rent freeze would be a ‘catastrophe’, plus news and more

“They said it”

Good Morning from Elite Agent

Happy Valentine’s Day! We wanted to take this opportunity to show our love for all of our loyal readers. Thank you so much for all of your support!

And, continuing with the feel good vibes today, it turns out there’s lots of connections between real estate and romance, with a new Zillow survey discovering 42 per cent of recent buyers found love after moving into their new home.

All that sizzle could be due to how they styled that abode, with Melbourne interior designer Kellie Richardson emphasising that using good Feng Shui elements in the home can enhance your love life. More here.

Today, we’re covering:

• Consumer confidence is back

• Why you need to focus on your foundations

• Canberra rent freeze would be a “catastrophe”

• The REACH reveals its 2024 cohort

• And much more!

Let's get to work 🚀

On our radar

Consumer confidence is back

Consumer confidence has returned to the property market, leading to above normal auction clearance rates. CoreLogic figures show the preliminary national clearance rate last week hit 76.2 per cent, with the Adelaide and Sydney markets rising above 80 per cent. This time last year the national clearance rate was 62.8 per cent. First National Chief Auctioneer Matthew Harvey said low listing levels and talk of interest rate cuts had fuelled consumer confidence. More here.

Together with Elite Retreat and Kolmeo

What's the difference between an average year and a really great year, or even a pivotal year in your business? Usually, it's not a dozen or more things - often, it is just one or two genius moves. And that is our theme for Elite Retreat this year, which will be held at the stunning Intercontinental Hayman Island resort.

Our speakers and invited guests will reveal their genius moves, from leadership to marketing, financial moves and also the moves they wish they had made but missed! Early Bird is only up until we announce our speaker lineup on 1 March - make your genius move by putting 11-14 August in your diary and securing your registration here.

Today’s Feature

Bianca Denham: Don't skip past laying the foundations for success

When a new agent joins the real estate industry it can be tempting to race ahead to secure listings, make sales and reach their goals. But Ray White Head of Performance and Recognition, Bianca Denham, says if you want a long-term career you need to ditch the shortcuts in favour of building a solid, market-proof business that thrives on genuine connections and a relentless commitment to excellence. More here.

Brekky Browse

People are talking about these. Read up; join in!

Innovative startups ready to transform real estate*
Nine companies have been named in the REACH 2024 cohort

REIACT hits out at proposed rent freeze
They say it would be a “catastrophe” for Canberra renters

REIA calls for equitable investment incentives
Fears Build-to-Rent bias could escalate housing costs

A smiley face costs you nothing
But it can improve the response chatbots give you

Oscar-winner lists Melbourne home
But Cate Blanchett still has property in Sydney

Put The Brief in your ears
with thanks to Rex Software

Anything else?

Turn the page!

Continuing with our affectionate theme today, did you know it’s National Library Lovers Day. Whether you’re a fan of a traditional library with physical books, or you’re more into ebooks or audiobooks, there’s no doubt they are a great source of wisdom. One book several of our Guest Editors love, including The Agency’s Matt Lahood and The Rubinstein Group’s Gavin Rubinstein, is Robin Sharma’s The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari. And, if you want to quickly brush up on the eight transformative lessons from the book, check out our synopsis here.