GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

Tonight is unofficial wine, pizza, and spreadsheet night - aka Budget Night - where journalists translate economic jargon into headlines faster than you can say "cosy studio apartment with potential." While you can expect the usual flood of election promises, for now, check out Nerida Conisbee's frontline view of the property market, explaining what we really need.

Today’s read time: 4 minutes, 40 seconds

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LEADERSHIP

Your Business Exit Isn't the End — It's Your Next Chapter

That's the refreshing perspective from Bo Burlingham, author of "Finish Big," who suggests we need to reframe how we think about business transitions.

His message? Most of the people he’s helped and talked to over the years about their exits wished they’d started planning earlier.

As we enter what business experts call the era of “thoughtful” succession planning, here are some tips to ensure your business thrives long after you've moved on:

1. Know yourself before planning your transition
"What do you want? What are your values? What will make you happy?" asks Burlingham. The key elements include:

• Understanding these aren't just philosophical questions - they're practical guideposts

• Recognising that your personal satisfaction matters as much as financial outcomes

• Starting with self-reflection before making any business decisions

2. Build a business that can operate without you
Building a transferable business means:

• Creating systems and processes that don't rely on your presence

• Developing a strong management team and healthy culture

• Following Burlingham's concept of a "saleable company" that thrives independently

3. Consider the full menu of transition options
Today, your choices extend far beyond simply selling:

• Internal succession to family or management teams

• Employee ownership through ESOPs

• Strategic buyers or acquisition entrepreneurs

• Creating "Evergreen companies" designed to last generations

The bottom line? A successful transition isn't just about the financial outcome - it's about your legacy, the people who helped build your business, and your personal satisfaction in life's next phase. As Burlingham reminds us, "The best transitions don't happen by accident. They're carefully planned and executed with clear goals in mind."

Note: This post is a deep dive into the topic of Succession - incorporating multiple research sources as well as video and audio for your listen on the way to work.

Dive in here.

ICYMI, yesterday we covered how to build a culture where property managers stay for.

SMART SNIPPETS

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE HAPPY?
Finland is the happiest country in the world for the eighth year in a row - while Australia has dropped out of the top 10 and the USA has fallen to its lowest ranking ever at 24th Place. 

The factors that contribute to Finland's happiness include social support, a high life expectancy, and freedom from corruption. In real estate, happiness has many advantages - and is often part of the recipe for success for top agents. Read more here.

WIN THE LISTING WITH AI
While many agents show up to listing presentations armed with a smile and a standard marketing package, the truly exceptional ones are wielding something far more powerful: artificial intelligence. We’ve entered the era where the difference between winning and losing a listing comes down to personalisation, preparation, and the ability to anticipate client needs before they're expressed. In this article, Sam reveals five listing winning AI strategies that can help you stand out in a crowded market where sameness is the enemy of success.

Norway’s wealth fund snaps up stake in Covent Garden in £570m deal
Norway’s sovereign wealth fund has acquired a 25% stake in London’s Covent Garden for £570 million, valuing the estate at £2.7 billion. Shaftesbury Capital will retain control and use the proceeds to reduce debt and invest in more West End properties. The deal supports the fund’s growing portfolio of prime UK real estate, including holdings in Mayfair and Regent Street. Shares in Shaftesbury rose nearly 10% following the announcement.

CELEBRITY HOMES

The Block stars Mitch and Mark list luxe retreat
Sydney renovation duo Mitch and Mark have put their newly transformed Northern Beach home on the market, marking their first major project since winning The Block in 2021.

The once-dated property has been reimagined into a high-end coastal retreat, boasting 280-degree ocean views and meticulous attention to detail. LJ Hooker Mona Vale agent Josephine Cowling said buyers have been impressed by the home’s level of finish and privacy.

MOVERS + SHAKERS

Leading Ladies event draws 200+ real estate women.
The Queensland gathering at Brisbane's Cloudland raised over $3,000 for charity while focusing on mental well-being and professional growth. 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.

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

"Black and sleek – not me, the kitchen.” Paul Neshausen just turned a listing into a runway show. And we’re absolutely here for 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.

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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