GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

Sam often says, “One of the most dangerous phrases in business is, ‘This is how we've always done it.’” After all, if everyone operates the same way, how can customers distinguish one agent from another?

Here's a truth about real estate that nobody talks about: When every agent looks the same to a vendor, it can sadly come down to a) price or b) who they like better.

However, walking into your next listing presentation with the confidence that nobody else is using the same approach as you could be as close as five weeks away. Class Starts 28th January. Check it out here.

Today’s read time: 5 minutes, 28 seconds.

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MOTIVATION

The Setback Cycle: turning challenges into real estate success

Every real estate agent knows that setbacks are part of the job.

Deals fall through, markets shift, clients change their minds. But what if those challenges weren’t just obstacles? What if they were opportunities for reinvention? Amy Shoenthal’s TED Talk introduces the Setback Cycle, which is a framework designed to turn setbacks into success.

Recognising the setback

“Establishing you’re in a setback is not as intuitive as one may think.”
In her talk, Amy explains that while some setbacks hit like a hammer (think: a lost listing or a failed deal), others creep in subtly. Perhaps you’ve lost enthusiasm for your work or feel stuck in the same routine. Amy’s Alarm Clock Checklist offers a simple yet powerful tool: ask yourself daily what energises you and what disengages you.

For real estate agents, this exercise could uncover valuable insights. Are you thriving in client-facing roles but drained by admin tasks? Are you inspired by luxury listings but bogged down in low-inventory markets? Identifying these patterns can clarify whether you’re in a setback and pave the way for meaningful change.

Networking matters

“The best thing you can do in the explore phase is cultivate your community.” Networking isn’t just about landing the next client; it’s about building a constellation of connections that support and inspire you. “Sometimes it is your community who sees how amazing you are before even you do,” said Amy. For real estate agents, this phase could mean reconnecting with past clients, reaching out to mentors, or collaborating with industry peers.

A single referral or partnership can open doors to new opportunities. Amy’s practical advice? Before scrolling through your phone at night, send a quick text or message to someone in your network. Over time, these small actions can yield significant results.

Emerging from a setback

“You have the tools. Now you need to decide what to build.” For real estate agents, Amy’s words of wisdom could be about applying lessons learned to achieve greater success. It could be about refining your marketing strategy after a campaign underperforms or leveraging feedback from a client to improve future interactions.

Amy also emphasises the importance of rest in this phase: “Sometimes after all the introspection, strategising, and exploration, you’re a little exhausted. Take the rest. Recognise any barriers and give yourself the grace to step around them.”

Rest isn’t a weakness, she explains, it’s preparation for the next chapter.

ICYMI, yesterday we reported on Trump’s impact on real estate in Australia

TOGETHER WITH CALL ME SUCCESSFUL

How did former NRL player Matt Srama transition from tackles on the field to tackling challenges in real estate, building a thriving business along the way?

In this episode of the TW Podcast, former NRL player turned real estate entrepreneur Matt Srama dives into the world of marketing, personal branding, and leadership. Known for his consistency both on and off the field, Matt shares how lessons from his sporting career have helped him build a thriving buyer’s agency and become a thought leader in the industry. With his passion for creating meaningful connections, Matt offers a refreshing perspective on the power of authenticity and team culture in driving business success.

Listeners are treated to Matt's insights on how a simple $150 TikTok course transformed his approach to marketing and why he believes the key to success lies in creating a vision big enough to include others. From his "PIE" marketing framework to his focus on leveraging personal brand equity, Matt's strategies are both practical and inspiring. He even shares why he’d prioritise personal brand development if he were an athlete today.

Tune in to the latest episode of Call Me Successful here.

SMART SNIPPETS

NZ buyers gain the upper hand
New Zealand's property market has shifted dramatically in buyers' favour, with national property values tumbling nearly 18% from their post-COVID peak. With listings surging 25% above the five-year average, particularly in Auckland and Wellington, house hunters now have plenty of options and stronger negotiating power.

Portable Bond Scheme could save renters thousands
The McKell Institute has proposed a National Portable Bond Scheme to ease financial strain on renters, allowing them to transfer bonds between leases and earn interest on their deposits. CEO Edward Cavanough highlighted the policy’s potential to save renters up to $2,600 over ten years and eliminate the need to double-up on bonds when moving.

Abu Dhabi and RAK set to lead UAE’s real estate boom in 2025
Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) are poised to drive the UAE's real estate growth in 2025, thanks to their price advantages and growing appeal to investors. Prime Abu Dhabi villas are roughly priced at AED 1,000 per (AUD $435.00) square foot, which is significantly less than Dubai’s AED 3,000 per square foot ($1,305).

CELEBRITY HOMES

Hawkeye's haven hits the market
Marvel star Jeremy Renner has parted ways with his renovated Laurel Canyon mansion, selling it for US$12.4 million. The actor transformed the 1960s property into a 9,000-square-foot modern residence after purchasing it for US$4 million in 2012.

SOUND WAVES

From the Octagon to Open Houses: UFC star finds success in real estate

Former UFC fighter Al Iaquinta has swapped the Octagon for open houses, using the grit and determination honed in the cage to excel in real estate. Best remembered for going five rounds with MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, he’s now scoring victories in a whole new arena.

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

Read the article from talkSPORT here

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

In real estate, words are your secret weapon, and phrasing can mean the difference between a house flying off the market or sitting there for what feels like eons. After all, "cosy" sounds a lot better than "cramped," doesn’t it? 😶🏠

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, 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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