This week, our team had the privilege of tuning into AREC (Australasian Real Estate Conference) 2025, both on the ground at the Gold Coast and via livestream. Over 4,500 real estate professionals gathered to learn, share, and explore the future of our industry. We heard from powerhouse speakers to forward thinking analysts, the insights were not only inspiring but incredibly actionable. Below is a quick snapshot of what stood out to us and how it’s shaping our thinking around the local market right now.

One thing that came through loud and clear is that technology is here to support connection, not replace it. Real estate coach Josh Phegan challenged us to start using all the new aspects of AI and local data in ways that genuinely improve our service and response time. Lana Samuels, a social media strategist, showed how platforms like Instagram, when used intentionally, can lead to real results, from off market sales to meaningful buyer conversations.

In a world that’s becoming more automated by the day, we were reminded that real human connection is still what matters most. Kamala Harris spoke beautifully about empathy in leadership, how curiosity and genuine care build real trust. Clayton Orrigo, one of New York’s top agents, drove the point home, it’s not about being overly polished, it’s about being present and real. He sometimes shows multimillion dollar homes in workout gear, often arriving on a scooter, not for show, but because buyers feel more relaxed when it doesn’t feel like a sales pitch. He spoke about the power of being genuinely, unapologetically yourself and that really resonated. It’s something we strive for every day as a team. And Steven Bartlett encouraged us to see rejection not as a stop sign, but as a signpost a chance to lean in, learn, and keep moving forward.

As always, we’re having daily conversations with our clients about our local real estate market. AREC gave us fresh food for thought from respected analyst Anthony Bell, who shared his take on what might be next for the Australian property market. While it’s important to remember that no forecast is guaranteed, Bell offered a perspective that’s worth considering: “Global trade tensions could drive an unexpected property boom in Australia, and the early signs are already here.”

Here’s what he believes could be fuelling this shift:

As global tariffs redirect Chinese exports toward countries like Australia, we’re seeing lower prices locally, potentially easing cost of living pressures and boosting household affordability. The weekly shop could decrease by over $100. With the Reserve Bank moving toward rate cuts, we’re likely to see renewed buyer confidence and higher transaction volumes in the months ahead. A softer Aussie dollar increases international appeal, making local property look even more attractive to overseas buyers.

What This Could Mean for Property?

Bell believes we may be on the cusp of a “perfect storm”, with more favourable conditions for investors, improved buyer sentiment, and greater turnover potential, particularly in regional and lifestyle markets like ours. But, and this is key, the opportunity won’t arrive all at once, and this is just one expert’s lens on a complex, ever evolving market.

His advice? “Let’s continue to focus on listings.” The agents and sellers who are prepared early will likely benefit most as momentum gradually returns.

Overall, we were reminded that while the market will always shift, the fundamentals remain the same: human connection, transparency, consistency, authenticity and care.