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Secrets of success: how regional agents thrive in real estate

More than 580 real estate professionals from across Australia and New Zealand participated in the first-ever virtual Regional Agents Conference.

Hosted by Sherrie Storor and Real Estate Nation, the conference focused on the unique challenges faced by regional agents, offering tailored advice on how to build and lead high-performance teams, enhance operational efficiency, and stay competitive in the real estate industry. Speakers such as Matt Lahood emphasised the importance of leadership, urging agents to prioritise their team’s growth and development over personal success.

“When you’re an agent, it’s about, ‘How many listings have I got?’ As a leader, it’s about empowering everybody else around you and helping them grow,” he said.
This leadership approach was echoed by other agents who shared their strategies for success in listing presentations and handling long-term property sales.

Tahlia Gabrielli (pictured above), a principal at Ray White Mount Gambier, highlighted the importance of understanding key decision-makers during listing presentations.
“Having really good energy from me and being really honest is my winning ticket and why people choose me,” she said.

In the luxury real estate market, patience and clear communication are key according to Sotheby’s Lynn Milsom. She shared her experience with high-end property sales, noting the need for persistence and strategic conversations with vendors.

“To set that benchmark, you really do need to take your time and find the right buyer,” she explained, drawing from her experience selling a record-breaking property after more than 400 days on the market. By managing client expectations, Ms Milsom said she ensures smooth transactions in the high-stakes luxury property market.

Additionally, Ray White Rockhampton’s Melinda Kirby (pictured above) discussed her growth from handling just 75 annual sales to doubling her business to 150 sales. Kirby credited her success to a mindset shift from focusing on buyer interactions to concentrating on securing her own listings. “I changed my mindset from being an associate to a listing agent, and I havenโ€™t looked back,” she said.

The conference highlighted the power of collaboration and unity within a team, with Daniel Harris from Real Estate Central emphasising the importance of working together towards shared goals. Mr Harris’ motto: “One Team, One Dream,” encapsulates his belief in collective success, noting, “Iโ€™d be nothing without the assistance of my EA, admin team, and associates.”

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Catherine Nikas-Boulos

Catherine Nikas-Boulos is the Digital Editor at Elite Agent and has spent the last 20 years covering (and coveting) real estate around the country.