In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Liam Garman is joined by NAB professional services banking executive Donna Kosiek and Harcourts Property Centre managing director and principal Sam Devlin to explore one of the most important – yet often overlooked – drivers of sustainable growth in Australian real estate: succession planning.

With a strategic approach and the right support, succession planning is transforming how real estate leaders future-proof their businesses while empowering the next generation of owners and operators.

Donna shares how succession isn’t just about stepping away from a business, rather it’s about building something that lasts, using equity exchanges to bring in talent, reward loyalty, and drive expansion.

For Sam, this approach has been a game changer. Since joining forces with Aaron Brooks, Harcourts Property Centre has grown from one office to operating across 12 locations, with a team of 200. He shares how the firm’s clear cultural values have helped align shareholders and build a cohesive, high-performing team.

The conversation dives deep into the practicalities of passing the baton, from financial governance and cultural fit to the mental shift required to move from rapid growth to sustainable profitability. With NAB’s expert support, Sam’s team has successfully navigated the complexities of succession while setting the business up for long-term success.

Tune in now to discover why planning for tomorrow is one of the smartest moves a real estate leader can make today.

Enjoy the podcast,
The REB team

In this episode, REB’s Liam Garman sits down with renowned coach and industry expert Michael Sheargold to unpack the strategies, philosophies, and mindset shifts that have helped shape some of Australia’s top-performing agents and businesses.

With a career spanning more than three decades, Michael shares how coaching, discipline, and a clear plan can transform results and reputation across the real estate profession.

Michael explains why confidence, courage, and clarity – his “three Cs” – are the foundation for success in today’s fast-moving market. From picking up the phone after rejection, to having tough conversations with clients and teams, and staying focused on what really matters, Michael reveals how agents and leaders alike can build resilience and deliver standout results.

The conversation dives into the parallels between elite sport and real estate, exploring how the right coaching, practice, and routine can give agents a competitive edge. Michael also shares a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming Business of Real Estate event – now in its 10th year and set to bring together 500 industry leaders to level up their teams, performance, and growth strategies.

Listeners will gain practical insights into building stronger teams, improving culture, and recognising both results and effort to inspire loyalty and lift performance across the board.

Tune in now to hear why clarity, confidence, and courage are more important than ever for real estate professionals ready to take their business to the next level.

Enjoy the podcast,
The REB Team

In this episode, REB journalist Emilie Lauer sits down with PRD chief economist Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo to unpack the current state of Australia’s property market and spotlight the most affordable, liveable suburbs.

The duo starts the episode by exploring the market’s response to the previous interest rate cuts and how they’ve impacted demand, supply, and property prices.

Asti said that while the first cut had minimal effect, the second led to a modest rise in auction clearance rates, building momentum for future cuts.

The duo then turns to PRD’s latest report, identifying affordable suburbs within 20 kilometres of the capital city CBDs.

Asti said affordable suburbs are defined as those below capital city median prices but still offer strong liveability, based on factors like low crime, access to infrastructure, and new housing supply.

The report also considers rental yields, appealing to both owner-occupiers and investors.

In Sydney, suburbs like Guildford and Punchbowl stand out, while Melbourne offers more affordable options in areas such as St Albans and Maribyrnong.

While units remain more affordable than houses, Asti noted that the price gap has narrowed, signalling growth potential across both asset types.

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If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you’d like to lend a voice to the show, email editor@realestatebusiness.com.au for more insights.