GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

On this day in 1953, Queen Elizabeth II was crowned - tiara, pomp, and all. It was the first televised coronation, giving everyone a front-row seat to history. Real estate agents, take note: presentation matters. Whether it's a royal event or a three-bedder in the suburbs, polish the details and give the people a show. Crowns optional, confidence essential.

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OPINION

Why investing in office space still matters in a remote-first world

Ben Kingsberry, CEO of Harcourts Kingsberry in Townsville, believes culture, not just convenience, should shape office decisions.

His bold move? A full-scale transformation of the company’s headquarters, designed to attract, retain and recharge top talent. While tech allows agents and property managers to work from anywhere, Ben argues that high performance thrives in environments where people want to show up. “Culture drives performance,” he says, and culture, in his view, needs a physical heartbeat.

The new open-plan HQ (where even management desks are out in the open) isn’t just functional, it’s symbolic. It's built for collaboration, transparency, and serendipitous connection. The result? A measurable lift in both business outcomes and team development since the move.

Workplace = social network

Especially for younger staff, the office has morphed into more than just a work zone; it’s become their primary social network. Many of Ben’s team now form friendships that stretch beyond office hours, creating a strong peer support system that boosts morale and retention.

“We’re no longer just providing a location for work. We’re creating the environment where people form some of their most significant relationships.”

Designing for energy, not enforcement

Instead of mandating office attendance, Ben focused on making the office the kind of place people choose to be. That meant thoughtful design: collaborative spaces, acoustic pods, and communal areas that encourage connection and creativity.

Even autonomous sales agents now spend more time in the office, because the environment pulls them in. “A space that’s welcoming and energising doesn’t just improve wellbeing, it improves client service too.”

A smart recruitment tool

In regional markets like Townsville, where the talent pool is tight, physical space can be a powerful differentiator. A modern, vibrant office signals that the agency values its people, and that it’s thinking ahead. You don’t need a complete office overhaul to start making impact: “Small changes, better light, informal gathering spots, can send big signals about your culture,” says Ben.

In a world of rising remote options and industry pressures, your physical space isn’t just a backdrop, says Ben, it’s a strategic lever for culture, cohesion, and competitive edge.

Read the full article here.

ICYMI last week, data has shown that playing long game in real estate, pays off.

TOGETHER WITH SIDEKICK

Sidekick’s free challenge helps property pros fight burnout

With burnout a growing concern in the property management industry, Sidekick Coaching & Consulting is launching a free 21-day challenge from June 9 to 29 to help professionals reset and regain control.

Open to property managers, BDMs, leasing consultants and agency leaders across Australia and New Zealand, the Beat the Burnout challenge offers quick daily tips, guest speakers, and weekly prize giveaways, all designed to ease stress and boost wellbeing..

Read about the Beat the Burnout challenge here.

DEPT OF HOT TAKES FROM AREC: DAY 1

What the best in the biz are doing right now

AREC 2025 brought the goods, with 33 sharp, straight-talking tips from some of the biggest names in real estate and beyond. Will Guidara reminded everyone that the little things aren’t little …client experience is everything. Josh Phegan talked energy management like it’s your secret weapon, while Robin Banks said your mindset needs gym time too. Steven Bartlett flipped the fear of rejection on its head and made tracking your 'nos' sound like a power move.

DEPT OF LUXURY PROPERTY

“Buy here, stay there”: The travel club helping agents sell prestige real estate

A growing number of real estate agents are using a luxury home-swapping platform called ThirdHome to help sell second homes, not with rental yield, but with lifestyle appeal. The members-only network lets owners trade unused time in their properties for stays in others around the world, from Aspen to the Amalfi Coast. Founder Wade Shealy says the model is resonating with prestige agents, who use it as a value-add to close sales.

DEPT OF MILLENNIALS 

Millennials break rank as homebuying interest climbs despite high mortgage rates

In the US, Millennials are the only generation with a growing interest in buying a home, rising from 15% to 23% since late 2024, according to a new Realtor.com survey. Most Americans, however, remain on the sidelines, with 69% not planning a real estate move anytime soon. High mortgage rates are the main obstacle, especially for Gen Z.

CELEBRITY HOMES

Facebook co-founder lists historic estate for $10M

Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes is selling his sprawling 80-acre Hudson Valley estate for nearly US$10M, making it one of the region's priciest listings. The 200-year-old property features 12 bedrooms across three structures, a 48-foot pool, a tennis court, and 3.5 miles of hiking trails. Hughes, who left Facebook in 2007, purchased the estate for US$6M in 2011 and invested millions in modernising it while preserving its historic charm.

MOVERS + SHAKERS

BresicWhitney secures major Eastern Suburbs expansion with TWG acquisition

BresicWhitney has acquired leading Eastern Suburbs agency The Woollahra Group, with founder Randall Kemp joining as a shareholder. More here.

REMAX Diamond launches in Melbourne

Rahul Maan and Yadwinder Aulakh will lead the new Cranbourne-based office, bringing over a decade of real estate and finance experience to the global brand. More here.

Success doesn’t rest on weekends! 
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AGENTS ON SOCIAL

Feeling overwhelmed? Just lie on the floor like a listing that’s been sitting too long - flat, quiet, and waiting for someone to fix the price. 🛋️💼

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

Wishing you a productive day!

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