[SteveG]

Hi guys,

To become a real estate agent in Sydney, Australia, you need to undertake a nine week course at a cost of $300. I just think the problem with real estate agencies in Australia is that they are still hanging onto the old systems that worked over 15 years ago. In other words, we haven't really imbraced technology, or accepted the fact that if you door knock or telemarket during the day, you're simply not going to talk to anyone, simply because, in today's age, you need to have two incomes to service a mortgage.

I have been suggesting that we should conduct targeted letter drops every week in an effort to blanket the suburbs where there is a lot of property movement; but alas, it keeps falling on deaf ears. In Australia, LJ Hooker is probably about the only real estate agent that has a very successful and recognisable brand awareness, but that's because they flood the market with their branding and their suggestions and tips.

In regard to MLS, the closest thing we've got is what we call "RP Data"; we can use this software to illustrate to customers how long a property was on the market before it was sold, what comparable homes sold for in their area, etc.