GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

The real estate industry can breathe out a collective sigh. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has officially lowered interest rates, bringing long-awaited relief to mortgage holders and real estate professionals alike. The move marks the first cut in four years, easing financial pressures amid a challenging economic climate. While banks may not pass on the full reduction, the shift signals a potential boost in buyer confidence.

Read our experts’ reaction and analysis below.

Today’s read time: 5 minutes, 27 seconds.

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OPINION

Stop the excuses

Real estate is filled with excuses, from interest rates, weather, market conditions, or tough vendors - yet none of these truly explain why deals fall through.

According to Andy Reid, auctioneer, real estate coach and author, these excuses are symptoms of a larger problem: a lack of accountability and the unwillingness to improve. Instead of blaming external factors, Andy argues that agents should focus on skill development, market adaptation, and refining their ability to convert opportunities into success. The industry doesn’t need more calls, more emails, or more rejection, it actually needs better agents who improve their conversion skills.

As he puts it, “Don’t wish for things to be easier, wish that you were better.”

Excuses hold the industry back
Andy believes that the real estate industry is stuck in a cycle of excuse-making and resistance to change, preventing agents from reaching their full potential. “It’s very easy for us to justify why someone or something else has caused us to lose business,” he says.

Whether it’s rejecting auctions, avoiding new technologies, or dismissing innovative sales techniques, the reluctance to take ownership and adapt is costing agents money. “We can’t keep allowing for the same excuses by constantly being fed the same rhetoric and buying into it; it’s only holding us back as an industry.”

Mindset over mechanics
He challenges the traditional real estate mantra of ‘more’ - more appraisals, more calls, more knocks - as an inefficient and exhausting way to operate. “It’s one thing to increase our numbers, but to be constantly hammered with this is plain tiring,” he says.

Instead of mindlessly chasing volume, he believes the focus should be on improving conversion skills to make each opportunity count. “Wouldn’t it be way better for our business (and our ego) if we were way more impressive to customers more often?”

The real path to success
For agents to truly grow, Andy says they need to shift their mindset from chasing easy wins to mastering their craft. “Opportunities are generated through effort, and when our effort isn’t rewarded, we find it easier to make excuses,” he explains.

Instead of spinning their wheels and blaming circumstances, agents should invest in education, coaching, and skill-building to increase their chances of success. “If making more money isn’t a strong enough reason to improve, then look at the things or people you love - and make all the effort worth it for them.”

Find out more here.

ICYMI, yesterday we asked the question: “are you the fool or the favourite” in a listing presentation?

TOGETHER WITH @REALTY

In a crowded market, a forgettable brand means lost business; so how do you make yours one to remember? It starts with a clear Unique Value Proposition (UVP), a deep understanding of your target audience, and a brand story that resonates. A strong online presence, engaging social media, and smart content marketing can boost your visibility, while client testimonials and local networking build credibility.

The key? Consistency across every platform, from your website to your Instagram feed. Stay ahead by adapting, refining, and staying connected to your community … because the strongest brands don’t just sell, they stick.

Find out how to create a memorable real estate brand in 12 easy steps here.

SMART SNIPPETS

RBA finally cuts interest rates to 4.1%, easing pressure on borrowers
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has lowered the cash rate to 4.10%, marking its first cut since 2020. With inflation easing faster than expected and wage pressures softening, the move aims to support economic recovery while maintaining price stability.

However, the RBA remains cautious about further cuts, citing strong labour market data and ongoing global uncertainties. Read what our experts had to say about why real estate professionals should prepare for shifting buyer sentiment and renewed market activity.

Timing, value and strategy: lessons from the Luka Doncic trade
The Luka Doncic trade was more than basketball - it was a lesson in timing and asset management. Like in real estate, knowing when to hold and when to sell is key. Peak value doesn’t last forever, and smart investors plan ahead. Whether trading superstars or properties, strategy beats sentiment every time.

Record investment in UK student housing as private developers strike £473M in deals
Private developers sealed 22 land deals worth £473 million (AUD $$910 million) in 2024 to build new student accommodation. Major projects include a 1,014-bed development in Manchester and a Fleet Street office block conversion in London. Rising student numbers and strong rental returns are keeping investors interested.

CELEBRITY HOMES

Renée Zellweger’s former California retreat is on the market
A Topanga Hills ranch once owned by Renée Zellweger is now listed for $7.995 million (AUD $11.5 million). The 4,414-square-foot estate was recently rebuilt, blending Spanish rancho charm with modern luxury. It features private hiking trails, a pool patio, and stunning canyon views.

SOUNDWAVES

Paper versus digital: which time management tool works best for real estate agents?

Time management is crucial for real estate agents, but should you use a paper planner or digital tools? Professional business organiser, Chelsi Jo, breaks down the pros and cons of each, highlighting the focus and flexibility of paper planners versus the efficiency and integration of digital tools.

Dive straight into the listen below or the deeper dive here

Read the article from Chelsi Jo here

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

I mean, they say you have to be flexible in real estate, but only when it comes to negotiating. After seeing this, who else needs to join an adult gymnastic program? 🙋🏻‍♀️🤸🏽

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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