GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

Could ‘gentle density’ be the answer to Australia's housing crisis? The Housing Industry Association (HIA) believes the solution to Australia’s housing shortage isn’t in towering skyscrapers or endless sprawl; it’s in gentle density. That means townhouses, micro-lot homes, and triplexes seamlessly integrated into established suburbs, preserving character while delivering much-needed housing.

Do you think gentle density would impact your local market?

Today’s read time: 5 minutes

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MOTIVATION

Thriving in a changing market – how to adapt and succeed

Success in a rapidly changing market hinges on developing an adaptive capacity, which is the ability to respond proactively to challenges and create opportunities.

In real estate, this essentially means staying agile in the face of shifting market conditions. Sales resilience expert Micheal Licenblat drums home that as change accelerates (and with businesses facing far more disruptions than before), resilience and problem-solving skills are critical.

Asking the right questions can shift your mindset from resistance to advantage. By understanding the deeper reasons behind change, recognising what you’re instinctively protecting, and identifying ways to capitalise on new circumstances, Michael says you can maintain control and thrive.

What’s behind the change?
Much like the analogy of being only able to see one-tenth of an iceberg, most of the factors driving change are hidden beneath the surface. Reacting only to what’s visible can leave you blindsided, whereas digging deeper helps you understand the motivations behind shifting client behaviours or market trends. Whether it’s a client reconsidering a listing, a buyer changing their criteria, or a landlord adjusting management preferences, taking the time to uncover the ‘why’ allows for better decision-making and stronger relationships.

What are you protecting?
People naturally resist change because it disrupts the familiar and threatens their sense of competence. Whether it’s a preferred CRM system, workflow, or business practice, change can feel like a loss of control. Recognising this instinctive reaction allows you to evaluate whether you’re resisting for valid reasons or simply holding on to comfort. Identifying what you’re protecting can help you embrace improvements rather than obstructing progress.

How can you capitalise on change?
Rather than viewing change as a setback, shift your perspective to uncover potential benefits. Gary Vaynerchuk often starts his interviews with one simple question: “Hey, what’s good?” While it may seem like a throwaway line, it encourages a focus on opportunities rather than obstacles.

Market shifts such as interest rate changes or new regulations might initially seem negative, but they can also create advantages, such as reduced competition or increased buyer urgency. By actively seeking ways to benefit, you stay ahead rather than being left behind.

Read the full story here.

ICYMI, yesterday we covered how to maximise your outcome when selling a rent roll.

SMART SNIPPETS

Property tax reform urged to halt rental exodus
REIV is calling for urgent tax reforms as investors abandon the rental market in droves. Data shows approximately 24,000 fewer rental properties between March and September 2024 alone, with the REIV proposing land tax concessions for long-term leases as one solution.

The recommendations aim to support the government's ambitious target of building 800,000 new homes by 2034 while creating a more balanced regulatory environment for both renters and property owners.

LJ Hooker pushes for defence housing model to ease housing crisis
Ahead of the Federal Budget, LJ Hooker is calling for urgent housing reforms, including a Defence Housing Australia-style program for essential workers. Their five-point plan also includes support for builders, incentives for downsizing, cutting red tape, and boosting sustainable housing.

Mortgage rate wars spark shift to longer fixed terms
New Zealand's borrowers are poised to change their mortgage habits as banks compete with lower 2-3 year fixed rates. Currently, 90% of new borrowers opt for floating or short-term fixed rates under 12 months, but this trend is expected to reverse as the Reserve Bank continues its cutting cycle.

Property values have already risen 0.3% in February, with experts predicting national property values could increase by around 5% this year

CELEBRITY HOMES

Sonia Kruger’s $20 million Mosman sale
TV presenter Sonia Kruger and her partner Craig McPherson have sold their Mosman home for just under $20 million. The couple bought the property nine years ago for $6.475 million and undertook a multi-million-dollar renovation, adding another level to maximise Sydney Harbour views.

Originally listed with an $18.5 million guide, the sale was finalised privately to a local buyer after a postponed auction.

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

Real estate agents are at their happiest when they find a client their perfect home. It’s like nailing the auction, getting a five-star review, and having a settlement go through without a last-minute hiccup, all rolled into one. 🤗 🏡

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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