GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

In the wake of Cyclone Alfred, the local community has come together in a way that has been both inspiring and rare. Despite the damage, the overwhelming response has been one of generosity and resilience. “One of the positives that I’ve seen is just how the different governments, federal, state, and local, have worked together.

The cleanup’s going well, there are boots on the ground, and everyone’s been on the same page,” says Ray White’s Avi Khan, whose Marsden office was impacted by the natural disaster. Beyond government coordination, the goodwill from tradespeople and landlords has been equally striking. “No one cares about money right now; people are just trying to help each other. It’s been really good to see the community spirit coming out.” Avi highlighted the compassion shown by landlords, a group often under scrutiny.

“They’re approving maintenance requests quickly, they’re being reasonable - it’s really cutting through the negativity of past headlines.” Amid the devastation, this silver lining reminds us that in tough times, true community spirit shines through.

Today’s reading time: 5 minutes, 53 seconds

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OPINION

Why family-sized apartments are becoming a key opportunity for real estate agents

The traditional view of Australian family homes, detached houses with backyards, is shifting as affordability pressures and urban density plans reshape the market.

Larger apartments, once primarily built for downsizers, are now attracting families looking for convenience, space, and lower maintenance. Tim Abbott, Director at Ray White Lower North Shore, says this shift presents a growing opportunity to market family-sized apartments as a practical and appealing solution, much like they do in European cities.

Understanding the growing demand for family-sized apartments
While apartments have historically been associated with young professionals and downsizers, the buyer profile is expanding. “What we’re seeing now is an increase in family-sized apartments—four-bedroom options and oversized three-bedrooms—to cater to buyers who still want space but not the maintenance of a house,” Tim says.

This shift is being driven by both lifestyle changes and financial considerations, with families prioritising location and convenience over the traditional backyard.

Positioning apartments as a smart Investment
Buyers may recognise the financial benefits of larger apartments, but the real challenge is often shifting their mindset from owning a house to embracing apartment living for their family. “The price difference is substantial,” Tim explains.

“For buyers who want to stay in a prime location but avoid the high cost of a house, these apartments are an attractive alternative.” As detached home prices continue to rise, positioning apartments as a smart, value-driven choice will be key to capturing interest both families.

The importance of liveability in apartment design
Selling apartments to families requires a focus on more than just floor space. Features such as light-filled layouts, cross-ventilation, and communal outdoor spaces are becoming major selling points.

“A lot more thought is going into apartment design - better natural light, dual aspects, and cross-ventilation,” Tim says. “There’s a real push to make apartments feel like genuine homes, not just compact living spaces.”

Agents who can articulate these benefits will be better equipped to attract and convert buyers who are rethinking the traditional family home.

Read the full story here.

ICYMI, yesterday we discussed why “no” in business may simply be a “not yet”.

TOGETHER WITH REACH

REACH Australia & New Zealand announces 2025 cohort of PropTech Innovators
Second Century Ventures, the venture capital arm of the National Association of REALTORS, has unveiled the 2025 REACH Australia & New Zealand cohort, featuring six companies set to reshape the real estate industry. Recognised as the 2024 Accelerator of the Year by PropTech Outlook, the REACH program continues its global expansion, supporting over 250 technology firms since 2013.

The selected startups focus on billing automation, digital procurement, ‘Pay Later’ solutions for real estate transactions, personalised property ownership strategies, dynamic living environments, and AR-powered data management for large infrastructure assets. The program kicks off on March 14 at REACH Genesis on the Gold Coast.

Read more about REACH here.

SMART SNIPPETS

Premium markets signal broader recovery
Australia's high-end real estate is bouncing back, potentially leading to a wider market turnaround. CoreLogic data shows the upper quartile of capital cities rose 0.2% in February following January's decline, with Sydney's Eastern Suburbs-North market growing an impressive 2%.

Economists suggest these premium markets are typically bellwethers for broader recoveries, though February's interest rate cut and improved buyer sentiment likely contributed to the upswing.

Rental affordability keeps dropping
Australia's rental market has hit its worst affordability level since records began in 2008, with median-income households able to afford just 36% of available rentals. While rents have surged 48% since pre-pandemic levels, typical household incomes have increased by only 19%.

The situation is particularly dire in New South Wales and South Australia, though Victoria remains relatively more affordable. Experts see a silver lining as rental availability is slowly increasing and rent growth is beginning to moderate.

Rocket Companies to acquire Redfin multi-billion dollar deal
Rocket Companies has announced a US$2.4 billion all-stock acquisition of Redfin, marking a major shift in the real estate and mortgage industries. The deal, will see Redfin operate as a Rocket-owned business, with agents and employees transitioning to Rocket stock.

CELEBRITY HOMES

Mick Fanning lists luxury Gold Coast beachfront home
Surfing legend Mick Fanning has listed his Bilinga beach house, Rolling Seas, for auction. The Hamptons-style retreat, set on a rare 1,030 sqm beachfront block, features an infinity pool, guesthouse, and direct beach access. Mick, who previously turned the home into a high-end holiday rental, recently sold another Gold Coast property for over $3 million.

MOVERS + SHAKERS

How @realty helped Jarred Hancox double his income
After more than a decade of struggling with rigid KPIs and restrictive commission structures, real estate agent Jarred Hancox made the bold move to @realty - and it transformed his career. Since joining, he has doubled his income, gained financial freedom, and regained control over his schedule. More here.

Success doesn’t rest on weekends! 
Get the latest on top agent and agency moves every Sunday with our weekly roundup in Movers & Shakers. Subscribe now.

SOUNDWAVES

Beyond the pay check: how to keep employees engaged without salary hikes

Money matters, but it’s not the only thing keeping employees motivated. A competitive salary helps, but today’s workers also value stability, respect, meaningful work, and a strong work-life balance. Listen to this curated listen to find out how to reduce turnover and keep teams engaged.

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

Read the article from Business News Daily here.

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

Selling your home without a real estate agent is like standing still on an escalator. Sure, you’re technically on the way up, but everyone else is zooming past while you wonder why nothing’s moving. 🆙🚶🏻‍♀️

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.

Stories marked with * are sponsored, including 'Together With' and the weekday 'Movers & Shakers' sections. Interested in promoting your brand to Elite Agent’s audience? Learn more at eliteagent.com/advertise.

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