GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

Australia, alongside more than half of the US and European countries are grappling with a shortage of bricklayers, but one Amsterdam-based company has come up with a solution to the housing crisis. Monumental is stepping in with autonomous ground vehicles to revolutionise construction with a trio of robots: one laying mortar, one delivering bricks, and one building. Since 2021, they’ve tackled everything from villas to quay walls in the Netherlands, and now they’re eyeing new markets. The future of quick, efficient building is on its way.

Today’s read time: 4 minutes, 34 seconds.

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PRESENTATION

Budget real estate hacks for buyer success

Home staging isn’t just about making a house look good - it’s about boosting profits.

According to the International Association of Home Staging Professionals, staged homes can sell for 17% more than non-staged properties, which in Australia's pricey market can mean tens of thousands in extra profit. Plus, the US National Association of Realtors said 81% of buyers find it easier to picture themselves living in a staged home.

With key spaces like the living room, bedroom, and kitchen spruced up, you’re not just selling a house, you’re selling a lifestyle. Of course, it comes at a cost but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Justine Wilson, founder of Vault Interiors, shares her cost-effective staging tips that focus on high-impact areas, partial styling, decluttering, and small, strategic updates like neutral paint and accessorising.

By enhancing key spaces without overspending, real estate agents can help boost a property’s appeal and increase the chances of a successful sale.

Focus on high-impact areas

According to Justine, prioritising the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom is key when staging on a budget as these areas are where buyers form their strongest impressions. She emphasises that “focusing on these spaces can make all the difference,” helping agents create an inviting environment without the need for full-scale renovations.

Declutter and depersonalise

By clearing personal items and excess decorations, agents can help buyers envision themselves in the space. “A clean, minimal environment highlights the home’s best features and creates a sense of space.”

Boost curb appeal

First impressions matter, and Justine encourages low-cost exterior improvements to increase exterior charm. Simple touches like fresh paint, potted plants, and garden refreshes can create an inviting look. “Small updates can significantly enhance a property’s exterior and attract more potential buyers.”

ICYMI, yesterday we covered some tips on personal branding

TOGETHER WITH AREA SPECIALIST

Jack Gilchrist, a top real estate agent in South Gippsland, credits his success to a community-focused approach and strong client relationships rather than chasing listings or awards. Starting in property management, he built a solid network that has followed him throughout his career.

Now with Area Specialist, he leads one of the top performing agencies in the region and sponsors local clubs and charities. His ultimate goal is to simplify the home-selling process and make clients feel comfortable, with the belief that success comes through long-term client relationships.

Read more about Jack Gilchrist here

SMART SNIPPETS

Global lessons in transport and density
Mega-cities like Tokyo, Paris, and London know the importance of expanding public transport to support housing density, with these cities boasting hundreds of mid-rise buildings around transport hubs. In contrast, Sydney lags behind, with only 22 stations in its inner 10km radius compared to Tokyo’s 553. A new report stresses that Sydney must significantly increase its Metro network to keep up with its growing population.

First-home buyers get a glimmer of hope
Help might be on the way for first home buyers struggling to get into the market. The Property Council is pushing for national housing targets and improved reporting to address supply issues. They're also advocating for a review of the home purchase process, given that taxes and charges can amount to a third of new home prices.

Middle-class Americans mirror Aussie trend
It's not just Australians feeling the squeeze, middle class owners in the US are also increasingly frustrated by housing costs. Nearly 30% of that demographic now spending over 30% of their income on housing - a rate that has doubled in the past decade.

Rising property prices, taxes, and interest rates have pushed many into “cost-burdened” territory, according to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development data leaving less room for essentials like groceries and savings.

Max Raine enters Hall of Fame
The late Maxwell Scott Raine has been inducted into the Franchise Council of Australia's Hall of Fame - the first ever real estate agent to do so. As the visionary who introduced franchising to Australia's real estate industry in the 1970s, Raine transformed his family business into an international network of over 350 offices.

Today, Raine & Horne facilitates over $10 billion worth of property transactions annually across six countries.

SOUND WAVES

Renters face a shrinking market

Today’s curated listen looks at the latest Proptrack data, which reports that in September 2024, renters saw no relief. Australia's vacancy rates dropped for the third month in a row, now sitting at a tight 1.34%. Hobart took the crown for the sharpest fall, hitting a slim 0.63%.

Dive straight into the listen below or the deeper dive here.

Read the article from Elite Agent here

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

The second someone casually mentions they might list their house, real estate agents smartly materialise out of thin air like they're in an Olympic sprint. Phones start ringing, business cards are whipped out, and within minutes they’re on the doorstep with an A-frame yard sign.🪧🏠

Seen an Agent On Social we should include? Let us know here (email link)

Wishing you a productive day

Elite Agent is crewed by Mark Edwards, Catherine Nikas-Boulos, Rowan Crosby, Giverny Pringle, Charmagne Arrubio and Samantha McLean. We aim to uplift the real estate industry by delivering forward-thinking, hype-free news and education that fosters knowledge and fuels ambition.

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