Real Estate Uncovered

For our 51st and final episode, we’re flipping the mic.

After a season of asking the questions, Lisa takes the hot seat to share her own story - from leaving accounting to becoming an award-winning auctioneer, and why she always found her way back to Grenadier.

It’s a candid, inspiring look at what drives her, what she’s learned along the way, and the one word that’s helped her stay grounded in this fast-paced industry.

A great way to round things off. All episodes will remain available on Spotify.

In this episode of Real Estate Uncovered, we sit down with Paul Garner, mortgage broker and director of Mortgage Life, to talk about how everyday homeowners can unlock the equity in their property to build long-term wealth through real estate.
Paul shares why structure matters, what banks really look for when it comes to investment lending, and how having the right team around you can make the journey smoother, from property managers to real estate agents to accountants. Whether you’re ready to invest now or just starting to explore the idea, this conversation is full of practical insights and real-world advice to help you get started.
This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult with your own advisor before making any investment decisions.

In this episode of Real Estate Uncovered, long-time agents Nicky Brownlee and Tim Sprott share what led them to briefly step away from Harcourts Grenadier - and why they came straight back just six days later.
From auction success to team structure, what makes a partnership work, and the systems that drive performance - this is a must-listen for agents who’ve ever wondered if the grass is greener somewhere else.

Tune in every Tuesday to get the inside scoop from a new real estate expert each week.

Buying property with a partner? Navigating a separation? This episode is for you.
In this episode of Real Estate Uncovered, Lisa sits down with Courtney Donaldson, senior associate at Wynn Williams and a specialist in relationship property law. Together, they unpack what you need to know when buying property as a couple (or with friends or family), what happens legally during a separation, and how to protect your interests before things get complicated.
From prenups and property sharing agreements to navigating the sale of the family home, this is a practical, down-to-earth conversation for anyone navigating big life (and property) decisions.
Tune in for expert insights on:
- When and why you need a property agreement
- What happens to the family home after separation
- How the law treats shared property, pets, and even engagement rings
- What to do before a relationship ends to save stress (and cost) later
Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

In this inspiring episode of Real Estate Uncovered, we chat with Patrick Smith from Harcourts Grenadier Halswell about his unexpected journey into real estate - sparked by a family conversation over dinner - and how he’s turned it into a thriving career.

Patrick shares candid stories from his early struggles, what helped him push through the tough months, and the mindset shifts that transformed his results. We talk about the real challenges agents face, why confidence and determination matter, and how finding the right company culture (and team support) makes all the difference.

Whether you’re an aspiring agent or just love a great success story, this episode is packed with relatable moments, practical insights, and Patrick’s refreshing honesty about what it really takes to build a long-term real estate career.

Tune in every Tuesday to get the inside scoop from a new real estate expert each week.

Want to make your real estate brand unforgettable?
In this episode of Real Estate Uncovered, renowned photographer Dave Richards reveals what it really takes to capture attention, from authentic branding shots to why great agent photography is more about personality than posing.
Real advice, real laughs, and why Christchurch light is every photographer’s dream.

In this episode of Real Estate Uncovered, we sit down with Andrew Steel from Harcourts Grenadier’s City Office to unpack one of the biggest decisions in real estate — selling the family home.
Andrew shares his experience supporting homeowners (and their families) through this emotional and often overwhelming journey, especially when downsizing or preparing for retirement. From understanding EQC paperwork and building reports to managing timelines, trust, and family dynamics, this episode is packed with real-world advice and stories that show just how important the right process — and the right agent — can be.
Whether it’s been 10 years or 30 since you last sold, this episode is for anyone helping themselves or their loved ones take the next step with clarity and confidence.

In this week’s episode of Real Estate Uncovered, we chat with Leeann Watson, Chief Executive of Business Canterbury, about what’s driving our city forward - and why the future’s looking bright.
From infrastructure investment and record net migration to business confidence and the rise of central city living, Leeann shares why Canterbury’s growth story is one worth paying attention to.
Whether you're buying, building, or investing - this one's for you.

In this episode of Real Estate Uncovered, we sit down with Allie McDonald - branch manager for our Ferrymead and Sumner offices - to talk all things leadership, culture, and career growth in real estate.
From selling homes to training agents across the country and now leading two vibrant teams, Allie shares what she’s learned along the way, why the office environment you choose matters, and how having the right manager can truly shape your success.
We dive into everything from new agent mindsets to office culture, training evolution, and why Grenadier’s ‘non-selling’ manager model makes a difference. It’s honest, insightful, and packed with advice for anyone considering a real estate career - or looking to reignite their current one.
Tune in now to hear why who you work with really matters.

We’re kicking off the new season of Real Estate Uncovered with a game-changer! In this episode, we sit down with Tom Stanley from Amicus to dive into the groundbreaking GrenadierSaver - a first-of-its-kind savings scheme designed to help our team achieve long-term financial freedom.
From smart financial planning to the power of compound interest, Tom shares insights on why thinking ahead can make all the difference. Whether you’re building wealth through property or looking to diversify, this episode is packed with actionable advice.
Tune in to hear how GrenadierSaver is setting a new standard in real estate - because planning for your future has never looked this good.