How Agents Can Thrive - Even With An Unchanged Government

It is an age-old phenomenon that we experience every election, where the real estate world becomes a hive of activity with political commentary from every corner as we feel almost obligated to throw our their two cents worth around politics, economics and fiscal policy. Regardless of how sound, accurate or fact based the swirling commentary is, it never ceases to amaze me at how agents get nervous, concerned, unsteady or even start predicting outlandish events based on who wins power. There are those that sprout confidently about the pro’s or cons of each party and what dire straits we can anticipate if ‘XYZ’ gets into power, however one thing I have noticed is that the outlook for property experts remains bright and positive but only for proactive and adaptive agents.

There are many ways in which a government can impact our industry or any marketplace for that matter, but there are several reasons why as real estate agents we should remain optimistic with the same government leading the way, just as it would also be accurate if there had of been a change of government. Let me elaborate, firstly, we have seen over the years, markets react more to interest rates than politics. I understand that the leadership of this country impacts interest rates, but regardless of who is at the helm, interest rates themselves will always be pushing or driving the market. Federal policy certainly plays a role in shaping the broader property market, however real estate activity is most directly influenced by interest rates, local supply and demand, and consumer sentiment. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), which operates independently of government, continues to play a more influential role in shaping buyer behaviour than any specific policy platform.

Whether interest rates rise or fall, opportunity still exists. In a tightening market, agents who understand how to educate vendors and negotiate with cautious buyers will thrive. In a growth market, those same agents can scale up activity quickly. It's not about who's in the box seat in Canberra - it's about how you read the local dynamics.

Secondly, a returned government - especially one that’s not overhauling housing policy - brings a level of certainty to the market. We know the tax settings. We know the housing support schemes. This kind of predictability can help buyers and sellers make confident decisions, particularly when there's no looming threat of major reforms to negative gearing, capital gains tax, or superannuation-related property investment rules. This leads me to suggest that agents who understand the current framework and can communicate it clearly to clients are well-positioned to convert hesitation into action.

Granted, national politics may get headlines, but let’s be honest with ourselves, real estate has always been hyper-local. What’s happening in Sydney’s Inner West is different from Brisbane’s outer suburbs or regional Tasmania. Agents who stay close to their community, who understand micro-trends, and who genuinely serve local buyers and sellers will always be relevant - regardless of who holds federal power. We harp on about being hyper-local and your local expert, and this remains critical regardless of national leadership. Now is the time to double down on building relationships, leveraging local data, and becoming the most trusted voice in your market.

Another element to consider is that we live in a world where government change isn’t shaking up our industry as much as technological advancements and innovations that are changing the way we do business. Early adapters in this market, have an opportunity to find unique and niche tactics and strategies that can drive the difference between them and their competition, creating a vast competitive advantage. The agents who embrace digital tools, refine their marketing strategies, and offer flexible auction formats (in-room, on-site, online, short campaigns etc) will outpace those waiting for the market to make the first move. At Holmes & Co, we continually see firsthand how innovation can elevate results regardless of external circumstances. A strong government mandate might set the backdrop, but it’s your tools, mindset, and service that drive performance.

Lastly, without big federal changes prompting urgency, it’s relationships - not regulations that move the market forward. Vendors want agents who are honest, strategic, and solution-focused. Buyers want someone who listens, informs, and guides them through uncertainty. This is another great opportunity for proactive and adaptive agents to stand out. In a stable policy environment, service becomes your sharpest competitive edge.

One thing that is certain, is that the real estate landscape is always shifting - but it doesn’t need a political shakeup to create opportunities. In fact, continuity can be a powerful platform for growth. With steady leadership, agents can focus less on reacting to change and more on refining their craft, serving their clients, and investing in long-term strategies. At Holmes & Co Auctioneers, we’re confident the best agents will continue to thrive, no matter who’s in power.

We are here to help you leverage from current industry conditions through our training programs and auctioneer services. If  you want to step up and advance your skills, hone your auction process or take your business to the next level, we want to hear from you!