Real Estate Today - New Zealand

30/08/2025

Property Brokers takes top honours in four categories ahead of competitors, and were finalists in a further fifteen categories at the 2025 REINZ Awards for Excellence.

30/08/2025

The Wellington real estate community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Chu Minh “Jack” Looc, a much-loved Ray White agent and passionate diver, who tragically passed away at the age of 46 following an accident at Lowry Bay, Lower Hutt.

07/08/2025

Inspection Express has confirmed the promotion of Jeremiah Antypas to Sales Manager — a move that strengthens its leadership bench at a time of major domestic and international growth.

Jeremiah’s not new to breaking records at Inspection Express.

Since joining, he’s been known for his clear strategic thinking, ability to build strong client relationships, and a leadership style that gets results.

The company credits him with lifting performance standards and setting the tone for collaboration across the team.

In his new role, Jeremiah will take the reins of the business development team — including Matisse Bracken, Hamish Pearce, and two recently appointed CSM and CSM/WA roles — while also leading the broader Sales Assistant division, which now reports directly to him.

The appointment comes hot on the heels of another key leadership move — Alex Karafiloff stepping into the newly created Vice President of Sales role for the United States — as Inspection Express positions itself for its next phase of growth.

With demand for property inspection technology surging, the company is betting on strong, proven leaders like Jeremiah to help drive results in 2025 and beyond.

Inspection Express has confirmed the promotion of Jeremiah Antypas to Sales Manager — a move that strengthens its leadership bench at a time of major domestic and international growth.

07/08/2025

Sam McIntyre, founder of ownly, has been awarded Trade Me Property’s Innovator of the Year 2025, selected from over 900 submissions across New Zealand’s 16,000+ licensed agents.

This recognition marks a powerful full-circle moment in McIntyre’s real estate journey.

“For nearly a decade, I poured everything into helping build what was then New Zealand’s largest real estate disruptor. I pictured myself there for life,” McIntyre shared.

“Then in one surreal morning, everything changed. What followed was three years of legal battles and deep personal challenge—but also the push I didn’t know I needed.”

From that turning point came Ownly—a bold new model that empowers high-performing agents to launch their own brand, keep more of what they earn, and operate without corporate politics or legacy constraints.

Since launch, Ownly has grown at more than 100% year-on-year, attracting top agents who are ready to scale their personal brand with full marketing support and no franchise fees.

“This award isn’t just about innovation—it’s about backing yourself when things fall apart,” says McIntyre.

“It belongs to my wife for backing me completely. To our head office team who make the impossible look easy. And to the early agents who believed in something different.”

In a post shared online, McIntyre acknowledged the irony of winning an innovation award just years after being forced out of the company he helped create.

“I take no joy in its decline—only a reminder that businesses either evolve or contract. Sometimes being pushed out is really being pushed forward.”

Sam McIntyre, founder of Ownly, has been awarded Trade Me Property’s Innovator of the Year 2025, selected from over 900 submissions across New Zealand’s 16,000+ licensed agents.

03/08/2025

BESPOKE MEDIA LAUNCHES NEXT-GEN REAL ESTATE APP

Bespoke Media, the innovation-led agency behind some of the real estate industry’s biggest digital shifts, has launched the next generation of its flagship agent platform — now fully rebuilt as a mobile-first app designed for modern real estate networks.

Originally developed by Bespoke during the COVID lockdowns as a centralised portal for agents, the platform has since evolved into a full-scale collaboration ecosystem — combining brand, lead generation, supplier access, internal communications and team support in one place.

Development on the new mobile version began in late 2024, following strategy sessions with agents and network leaders across Bespoke’s international client base. The brief was clear: make it simple, make it fast, make it useful.

“We didn’t want to be just another app,” said Bespoke Media CEO Nic Fren. “Agents already have too many logins. This had to be different. In just two clicks, they can access what they need — without friction or clutter.”

This month, ONE AGENCY became the first internnational real estate group to adopt a custom version of the platform for its members, branded under its own banner and unveiled at the group’s international conference in New Zealand.

But Fren is quick to clarify — “Every network is different — different needs, different goals, different markets,” he said. “That’s why we built the core infrastructure ourselves, then customise the delivery.

What ONE AGENCY is using is a tailored version of our platform, not a rebranded template. This tech adapts to the DNA of each network we partner with.”

The platform offers real-time collaboration spaces — dubbed “Clubhouses” — tailored to different parts of the business: Sales, BDMs, Property Management, and Directors. Users can share files, attend live webinars, collaborate on strategy, and connect with peers from around the world.

“These aren’t message boards — they’re actual communities,” Fren explained. “They feel like Facebook groups, but they’re built into your business infrastructure.”

The shift to app-based comms was a conscious one.

With agents overwhelmed by email, Bespoke’s platform integrates non-invasive push notifications — the same way agents get alerts from Instagram or WhatsApp — to streamline how head office delivers updates.

Importantly, the app also changes the game for industry partners. Through native integration, partners can now contribute content, sponsor resources, and maintain 365-day brand visibility inside the network.

It opens a new channel of meaningful, always-on engagement between networks and their supplier ecosystem.
“It’s a smarter way to connect networks and suppliers,” said Fren. “Everyone’s in the same place, working together — not competing for attention.”

This launch marks more than just a tech milestone. It signals Bespoke’s formal entry into the technology space — a move Fren previously avoided.

“I didn’t want to be just another provider. We already have enough logins, tools, and platforms in this industry.

But when you can house everything in one place and actually make life easier for the people doing the work — that’s worth building.”

And it’s working. The platform is already in use across 10 countries through Bespoke’s broader network, with more group-level rollouts expected over the coming months.

For Fren, it’s the natural next chapter.

“Bespoke has always been about leading from the front — from launching real estate’s first social-first publication to building the first full-service media, PR and advertising portal. This app is the infrastructure that will carry all of that into the future.”

Bespoke Media, the innovation-led agency behind some of the real estate industry’s biggest digital shifts, has launched the next generation of its flagship agent platform — now fully rebuilt as a mobile-first app designed for modern real estate networks.

02/08/2025

Real Estate Legacy Joins Forces with ONE AGENCY as Central West Office Launches in New Zealand

One of New Zealand’s most trusted regional real estate offices has entered a new chapter, officially rebranding to ONE AGENCY Central West, effective 1 August.

The shift is led by veteran principal Wayne Hutton, who marks exactly 25 years to the day under his former international network.

Hutton says the time was right to realign with a model that matches both the direction of the industry and the long-term future of his business.

“This has been a long-considered move,” Hutton said. “We’ve built a loyal client base over the past 25 years by putting people first.

We’re still the same team with the same values—now backed by an innovative brand and a broader network.”

As part of the rebrand, two long-standing staff members have been appointed as shareholders and directors of the business, forming part of a succession plan designed to future-proof the agency for years to come.

“We’re laying the foundations now so our people can carry this legacy forward,” Hutton added.

The decision to join ONE AGENCY followed a single face-to-face meeting in March with the group’s Global Head of Membership, Mindy Powell-Hodges, who has been instrumental in the brand’s rapid growth across Australasia in 2025.

“This is a people industry,” Powell-Hodges said. “Since joining ONE AGENCY six months ago, I’ve travelled to New Zealand four times.

With our International Conference in Wellington this week, the appetite for change here is undeniable. It’s important that we’re on the road, listening to what our members want.”

“As the fastest-growing real estate brand in Australasia this year, it’s not about how much cash a network can throw at a business owner—or empty promises.

It’s about sitting down, understanding their goals, and working with them to build something sustainable.”

Hutton points to ONE AGENCY’s unchanged monthly subscription model, strong marketing ecosystem, and proprietary media and lead-generation platform ONE PLACE as key factors in his decision.

“It’s innovation with stability,” he said. “That’s hard to find in this industry.”

ONE AGENCY now operates in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, with a fourth Indo-Pacific country flagged for launch in the coming weeks.

Powell-Hodges says more business owners are starting to re-evaluate what they’re getting in return for rising franchise fees.

“Our subscription hasn’t changed since 2008,” she said. “That kind of consistency, paired with strong branding, international presence and real tech, is what agents want.”

ONE AGENCY Central West is now live, marking not just a significant office move—but a clear signal of the shift underway across the New Zealand real estate landscape.



https://www.realestatetodaynewzealand.com/post/real-estate-legacy-joins-forces-with-one-agency-as-central-west-office-launches-in-new-zealand

26/06/2025

How a Hamilton Teen Gave Up the Social Life – and the Fancy Car – to Buy His First Home at 20

While most 18-year-olds are still deciding what to do with their lives, Zack Kendrick was unknowingly preparing to become a homeowner by 20.

22/06/2025

CAN’T WAIT FOR THE EMAIL?

MOST OF THESE STORIES ARE NOW ALREADY LIVE ACROSS BOTH PUBLICATIONS!

Another huge week about to drop for RET across both Australia and New Zealand.

Be sure to follow the #1 industry publication in Australia, Estate Today-Australia and the #1 industry publication in New Zealand, Real Estate Today - New Zealand for the latest news.
Also be sure to follow us on socials where news drops first.
Coming up this week (so far)

Bespoke Media Group launches a Property Management Club in their Bespoke Portal

Agency HQ adds another office as they continue to grow nationally.

One Agency gears up to launch office number 10 for the year.

Harcourts announce Kobe Rae as new Auction Growth Manager, a Camp Quality Day out at Puffing Billy Railway and an update on their reach program.

Junction Estate Agents makes real estate that little bit sweeter with his latest marketing strategy.

Ellen Bathgate talks about why your rent roll growth depends on more than just good service

And how a Hamilton teen gave up the flashy car and nights out to buy a home at 20 years old.

All this and much more in your favourite Real Estate publication across New Zealand.

Need the stories RIGHT NOW?

Click below:

https://www.realestatetodaynewzealand.com

10/06/2025

Agent Sells Home Using TikTok in App-Defying Result.

A still image. 130 views. One serious buyer.

But the ex*****on defied all odds for the platform.

This was a static image on a video-first app, posted from a reasonably new account by an agent just twelve months into the industry.

Despite the lack of video, followers, or paid promotion, the post broke through.

In a space dominated by high-energy video content, Burgdorf’s post was striking in its simplicity: a single still image, uploaded without edits, or advertising spend.

The video received just over 130 views, but within 30 minutes, it led to a qualified enquiry—and ultimately, a successful sale.

As digital marketing continues to reshape the real estate landscape, one of Victoria’s newest real estate agents has demonstrated how short-form content can convert into real-world results—without big budgets or high production.

10/06/2025

Where are the next million dollar suburbs?

Seven suburbs are poised to cross the million-dollar threshold in 2026, all currently sitting between $950,000 and $990,000 in median house prices.

Two suburbs from Christchurch lead the charge: neighbouring Ilam and Upper Riccarton, located 5km west of the city centre near the University of Canterbury. These areas benefit from their proximity to the university and established infrastructure.

Interestingly, two suburbs on the list aren't from major cities. Hurdon in New Plymouth offers beautiful scenery with the iconic Mount Taranaki as a backdrop, plus a vibrant arts scene and diverse outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, Cromwell in Central Otago sits in the heart of New Zealand's premium wine region, known for award-winning Pinot Noir and tourist attractions like Lake Dunstan and the Highlands Motorsport Park.

Seven suburbs are poised to cross the million-dollar threshold in 2026, all currently sitting between $950,000 and $990,000 in median house prices.

10/06/2025

Reapit Integrates SATS as first compliance partner on Console Cloud Marketplace.

Reapit has officially welcomed Smoke Alarm Testing Services (SATS) as the first compliance provider to integrate with the Console Cloud Marketplace – a move set to streamline compliance workflows for property managers across Australia and New Zealand.

As a well-established and trusted name in the real estate industry, SATS is known for its proactive approach, technological agility, and deep understanding of evolving legislative requirements.

Reapit has officially welcomed Smoke Alarm Testing Services (SATS) as the first compliance provider to integrate with the Console Cloud Marketplace – a move set to streamline compliance workflows for property managers across Australia and New Zealand.

10/06/2025

Next-Gen Real Estate Leader Assumes Full Control of High-Performing Agency.

Wellington-based real estate firm Agency Select Realty has entered a new phase of ownership, with Elman Avallone acquiring full control of the business.

The move follows the decision by founding director Naomi Brooking to step back from executive duties to refocus on sales and family priorities.

The agency, established in 2015, has positioned itself as a boutique operator offering a personalised alternative to volume-driven franchise models. Avallone, who joined the business shortly after launch, has held roles across compliance, operations, and leadership, and had previously been a co-owner.

“This marks a natural progression,” Avallone said. “We’ve built a business that prioritises consistency and accountability in the sales process, and this next chapter will allow us to scale that further across the region.”

https://www.realestatetodaynewzealand.com/post/next-gen-real-estate-leader-assumes-full-control-of-high-performing-agency