The Elite Agent Masterclass

Send us a text

Welcome to The Elite Agent Masterclass—the podcast where estate agency meets innovation, ambition, and transformation. In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Ross McKenzie, a trailblazer in the self-employed estate agency world and the visionary founder of Isla Alexander and Open Moove.

Why do 99% of the public distrust estate agents? It’s a shocking statistic, but one Ross is tackling head-on. Together, we unpack the deep-rooted issues within the property industry, from outdated processes to siloed systems that frustrate home movers and professionals alike. Ross shares his journey of challenging these perceptions, driving change, and inspiring collaboration across the sector.

We dive into the rise of self-employed estate agents and the way they’re reshaping the industry. Ross explains how this movement is forcing corporates, independents, and high-street agencies to raise their game, delivering better service and value to clients. Through his experiences, we also explore the shift from quantity-driven models to quality-focused businesses that prioritise relationships over transactions.

This episode is packed with actionable insights, including:

• The truth behind the public’s distrust of estate agents—and how to change it.
• The pivotal role self-employed agents play in raising industry standards.
• Why collaboration between estate agents, mortgage brokers, and conveyancers is vital.
• The mindset and systems needed to transition from self-employed agent to business owner.
• How Open Moove is set to revolutionise the property journey with accountability, education, and transparency at its core.

Ross also highlights the power of coaching in unlocking success and shares how his own mindset shifted dramatically after working with a coach. He explains why investing in yourself is the best decision you can make, whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your business.

This is more than just an industry deep dive—it’s a blueprint for anyone striving to make their mark in estate agency. Whether you’re an experienced agent, a budding entrepreneur, or simply interested in the future of property, this episode will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take action.

Tune in to The Elite Agent Masterclass now for an unmissable conversation with Ross McKenzie. Discover

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

In this episode of the Elite Agent Masterclass, we’re diving deep into the future of estate agency with special guest Kieran Slinger, founder of PropAlt—a cutting-edge platform revolutionising how estate agents generate leads, automate direct mail campaigns, and leverage data. Whether you're employed or self-employed, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you save time, reduce admin, and dominate your local market.

Kieran shares the inspiring story behind PropAlt's creation, from its beginnings during lockdown to its evolution into a powerful tool for estate agents. Discover how PropAlt combines advanced automation with personalised marketing strategies to create consistent touchpoints with clients—helping agents stand out in today’s competitive landscape.

We explore:

• The “Set and Forget” Marketing System: How PropAlt automates lead generation while remaining personal.
• Hyperlocal Strategies: How agents can use PropAlt’s data to dominate specific postcodes.
• Efficiency Gains: Free up your time to focus on what matters—building relationships and closing deals.
• Innovative Campaigns: Learn how targeted direct mail combined with digital journeys is transforming agent success.
• Adding Value for Clients: Help buyers find off-market properties and deliver a concierge-level service.

Whether you're new to estate agency or looking to elevate your established business, this episode offers a roadmap to creating consistent results with less effort. We discuss how PropAlt empowers agents to double down on high-quality marketing, turning time-consuming tasks into seamless processes that yield measurable returns.

If you’re tired of the traditional “spray and pray” marketing approach and want to focus on tools and tactics that genuinely work, this episode is for you. Learn how agents are using PropAlt to build sustainable pipelines, connect with more vendors, and provide exceptional value to clients.

Don’t miss this game-changing conversation! Connect with Kieran Slinger and explore how PropAlt can transform your estate agency business. Listen now and take the first step toward becoming an Elite Agent.

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

🎙️ In this week’s episode of the Elite Agent Masterclass, James and Jack are joined by Ben Dunn, a self-employed estate agent who epitomizes the meaning of going "all in."

Ben shares his inspiring journey from the high street to building a successful self-employed estate agency with no safety net. From remortgaging his house to support his dream to achieving results that rival annual salaries in his previous employed roles, Ben’s story is one of calculated risk, relentless determination, and the power of having no Plan B.

🔥 What to Expect in This Episode:

• Why leaving a corporate role can feel daunting—and how to overcome the fear.
• The mindset shift needed to thrive as a self-employed estate agent.
• How going all in forces you to make things work, no matter what.
• Real strategies for generating leads, delivering value, and building client trust.
• Why betting on yourself is the best decision you’ll ever make.

Ben’s transparency about the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way is exactly what every estate agent needs to hear—whether you’re employed, considering the self-employed model, or already building your own business.

💡 Key Highlights:

• Ben's two completions that earned more than his previous annual salary.
• The role of mindset and resilience in navigating the self-employed world.
• How The Avenue Estate Agents' support model helped him grow and succeed.
• Why social media and networking are non-negotiables in today’s market.

This episode is packed with actionable advice, relatable challenges, and a whole lot of motivation to help you move past self-doubt and start creating your ideal estate agency career.

💬 Join the Conversation:
Are you ready to ditch Plan B and focus on what really matters? Let us know your biggest takeaway from this episode!

📺 CTA: Don’t forget to catch the full episode on YouTube for even more insights and strategies!

🔗 Stay Connected:
📲 Follow Ben Dunn: Connect with Ben on Instagram @BenDunn_TheAvenue and Facebook for more insights and inspiration.

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

Jack Durkin and James Humphries-Stone delve into personal branding in estate agency. They reveal why it's crucial for growth, particularly for self-employed agents or those running their own businesses.

Why Personal Brand Matters

• Builds trust and familiarity with clients.
• Clients often feel they know you from consistent branding.
• Examples like Elon Musk highlight personal brand impact.

Relating to Clients

• Authenticity fosters deeper connections.
• Personal stories strengthen your brand.
• It’s about being genuine, not just polished.

Credibility and Community

• Known personal brands bring added credibility.
• The Avenue’s agents excel by merging personal and agency branding.
• A balanced approach attracts ideal clients.

Should You Share Personal Details?

• Share only what aligns with your comfort level.
• Authenticity builds trust.
• Being genuine can elevate your brand.

From Stiff to Genuine

• Embracing authenticity can boost confidence and fees.
• Being relatable can be as simple as matching clients’ styles.

Overcoming Video Fears

• Practice to beat fear: talk to the camera as if it’s a client.
• Livestreams make things feel more natural and unscripted.

Networking and Engagement

• Go beyond social media; engage locally.
• Sponsor events and partner with businesses.
• Real-life connections can fuel your brand’s growth.

Stand for Something

• Be bold about your values.
• Differentiating yourself attracts the right clients.
• Jack and James emphasize taking a strong stand.

Final Thoughts

• Consistency is key in personal branding.
• Growth comes from embracing discomfort.
• Jack and James share how this strategy transformed their business.

Thinking of building your brand? Reach out to Jack and James—they’re ready to share insights.

Listen, learn, and elevate your brand.

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

In this special episode of the Elite Agent Masterclass, we take a unique approach and hit the golf course with Simon Gates for an unforgettable session. Join James and Jack as they tee off with Simon for a round filled with both great conversation and friendly competition. While the game is in full swing, the discussion dives deep into the world of estate agency, self-employment, and how agents can excel in today’s fast-evolving market.

Simon Gates, a seasoned expert in estate agency and self-employment, offers valuable insights into several key areas that every agent should know. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, Simon provides actionable advice on:

• The rise of self-employed estate agents, why this model is gaining popularity, and how to transition successfully into self-employment.
• Leveraging buyers in estate agency to win more listings and build a sustainable business.
• Going beyond typical platforms like Rightmove and implementing innovative strategies to market properties for maximum exposure.
• Building strong client relationships through targeted networking and direct mail, providing a long-term pipeline of clients and referrals.
• Simon’s advice on how agents can confidently stand out and charge higher fees by focusing on adding real value and delivering exceptional service.

Packed with actionable takeaways, from strategies on winning listings to mastering buyer engagement. Plus, if you're interested in transitioning to self-employment, Simon breaks down the mindset and practical steps you need to succeed in this growing market.

It’s not all business—there are plenty of lighthearted moments on the golf course, with Simon' win! The trio shares laughs, making this episode as entertaining as it is educational.

Don't miss out on this unique blend of estate agency expertise and fun on the fairway. Whether you’re tuning in for the golf or the insights, this episode has something for everyone!

0:00 - Welcome & Intro
2:20 - Why Self-Employment is Growing in Estate Agency
5:45 - Marketing Beyond Rightmove & Leveraging Buyers
10:30 - Serving Buyers & Sellers Differently
15:50 - Direct Mail & Creative Strategies to Win Listings
20:10 - Simon’s Take on Fees & Adding Value
28:40 - Golf Round & Final Thoughts

Watch the full episode for more

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

In this episode of the Elite Agent Masterclass, James and Jack talk with Emma Nugent, a top estate agent at The Avenue. Emma shares her journey into estate agency, her passion for property, and how she manages her successful business while balancing family life.

Introduction

• Emma has worked alongside James and Jack for four years, three of them at The Avenue.
• Known for her commitment and customer-centric focus, she played a key role in The Avenue’s success.
• Emma’s decision to join The Avenue was a leap of faith that paid off.

Passion for Estate Agency

• Emma sees estate agency as more than a job—it's about helping clients through life-changing transitions.
• She loves exploring homes, meeting people, and being part of their journeys.
• Her early obsession with houses and refurbishments led her into the estate agency field.

Journey into the Industry

• Emma previously worked as a business consultant and owned a research company.
• After struggling to find flexible roles in traditional agencies, she eventually joined Purple Bricks and later The Avenue.

Balancing Business and Family Life

• Emma balances her growing business with being a mother of three.
• Sundays are dedicated to football and family time, helping her recharge.
• She brought in a client executive to manage the increasing workload and maintain balance.
• Organisation and careful planning, including scheduling holidays, help her avoid burnout.

Delivering Results for Clients

• Emma’s reputation is built on trust, communication, and delivering on her promises.
• She has a talent for marketing and selling properties that were previously stuck on the market.
• Emma keeps listings fresh with regular updates and an authentic, unscripted approach to property marketing.

Networking as Key to Success

• A large portion of Emma’s business comes from referrals through local networks like football clubs and school connections.
• Building strong relationships within her community has driven her client base.

Processes Drive Success

• Emma’s success comes from maintaining clear processes, from managing listings to handling offers.
• These processes ensure efficiency, quality, and consist

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

In this episode of Elite Agent Masterclass, Jack Durkin and James chat with Connor Harris, co-founder of Marco Harris. Connor shares his journey from the corporate world to building a successful estate agency brand. He dives into the importance of personal branding, creating the right environment, and the challenges of transitioning to self-employment. Packed with practical insights, this episode is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their estate agency career or business.

Connor’s Journey:

• Always had an entrepreneurial fire but felt restricted in corporate roles.
• His creativity was stifled by outdated industry practices and red tape.
• Decided to leave the traditional model and build something on his own terms.

Building Marco Harris:

• Connor and his partner Mark worked eighteen-hour days in the first year.
• Focused on creating an unmatched customer and agent experience.
• Developed a flexible work culture, allowing agents to work on their own terms.

Driving Success:

• Key to growth: creating an environment where agents can thrive.
• Success came from understanding both client and agent needs.
• Built a model that offers flexibility, creativity, and freedom for agents.

Work-Life Balance:

• It's tough at first. Connor put in long hours, but it’s led to freedom.
• As the business grew, he began delegating tasks to focus on strategy.
• Personal and family time is now prioritised, something that wasn’t possible in his employed roles.

Self-Employed Agent Model:

• Importance of backing yourself before jumping into self-employment.
• Transition from corporate to self-employed requires the right mindset and willingness to step out of your comfort zone.
• Aligning with the right brokerage is key to success.

Personal Branding and Social Media:

• Personal branding is critical in today’s market.
• Connor emphasised consistency in social media and showing your authentic self.
• He notes the importance of staying true to your personality and using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to connect with clients.

Advice to Aspiring Self-Employed Agents:

• Do your research before jumping into any self-employed model.
• Speak with agents in th

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

Introduction

• Chris Webb is Currently in Portugal, but still working 8-5 daily.
• Chris was originally a performance director for the Property Franchise Group, managing 100+ franchisees.
• Now, Chris runs his own estate agency consultancy, focusing on helping self-employed agents grow and succeed.

Chris's Journey to Consultancy

• Began as an estate agent at 18, worked his way up to performance director.
• His role at Property Franchise Group taught him the value of helping others grow their businesses.
• Wanted more personal impact, shifted from managing many to focusing on fewer, more motivated individuals.
• Left his corporate role to focus on coaching self-employed estate agents.

Making the Leap to Self-Employed Coaching

• Chris realised he wasn’t happy chasing promotions, money, and corporate status.
• He refocused his life around three things: traveling, meeting people, and helping others.
• Built a business allowing him freedom and happiness, working from anywhere.

The Shift in Estate Agency: Moving to Self-Employment

• Chris's consultancy now focuses solely on self-employed estate agents.
• Believes in quality over quantity—only works with agents committed to growth and success.
• His coaching model: If their business doesn’t grow, they don’t pay.

Mindset is Key

• Chris emphasizes that mindset is the biggest block to success.
• Many agents get in their own way by overthinking and doubting.
• He encourages a "just do it" mentality—maximum action, less hesitation.

Starting Strong: Focus on Outputs

• When starting out, focus on what you can control: marketing, lead generation, and outreach.
• Don’t worry about immediate results—focus on the volume and consistency of output.

Future of Estate Agency

• Sees a major shift toward self-employment in the next 5-10 years.
• Predicts that 25% of the industry will be self-employed.
• More clients are starting to favor smaller, more personalised service over large corporate agencies.

Practical Advice for Self-Employed Agents

• Chris shares his “first move” for launching an estate agency:
  • Record a quick video message introducing yourself.
  • Send i

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

In this episode of the Elite Agent Masterclass, James hosts Perry Power, a well-known figure in the estate agency industry. 

1. Perry's Background:
   • Perry Power is a seasoned estate agent with over a decade of experience.
   • He founded Power Bespoke in 2014 after parting ways with his previous business partner.
   • Perry’s obsessive and structured approach has been key to his success.
2. Importance of Mindset:
   • Perry emphasizes the significance of mindset in estate agency.
   • He believes that focus, consistency, structure, and discipline are crucial to becoming an elite agent.
   • Perry openly shares his personal struggles, including a diagnosed mental breakdown in 2022, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and proactive management.
3. The Value of Mentorship:
   • Perry discusses the pivotal role of mentorship in his career, particularly the impact of Royston Guest’s guidance.
   • Surrounding yourself with mentors and coaches who can guide you through both business and personal challenges is essential for growth.
4. Estate Agency Insights:
   • Perry is a strong advocate for tech-enabled experts in the estate agency industry.
   • He predicts that the future will favor agents who effectively leverage technology to enhance their expertise and client service.
   • Perry also highlights the importance of offering buyer representation services, noting that it can be more profitable than traditional sales.
5. Lessons from Hardship:
   • Perry shares candidly about the difficulties he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the toll it took on his business and mental health.
   • He underscores the value of resilience and the necessity of pushing through tough times to achieve long-term success.
6. Future of Estate Agency:
   • Perry sees the future of estate agency as one dominated by better-quality agents who are supported by technology.
   • He advocates for a shift in mindset from seeing other agents as competition to viewing them as colleagues and allies.

Notable Quotes:

• "Nothing breeds failure like success. Marginal corrosion is just as important as marginal gains."
• "Focus, consistency, structure, and discipline are the four pillars of becomin

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Send us a text

In this episode of the Elite Agent Masterclass, hosts Jack Durkin and James discuss the journey of Lee Holman, a partner at The Avenue. Known for his unfiltered and straightforward approach, Lee shares insights on balancing work and life as a self-employed estate agent, the importance of brand, and how he achieved a fulfilling lifestyle working fewer hours while maintaining high standards of service. Lee’s candidness and real-world experience provide valuable lessons for anyone considering the self-employed route in real estate.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Introduction to Lee Holman:
   • Lee's background and character.
   • Warning for explicit language and candid discussions.
2. Work-Life Balance:
   • Lee discusses his current work situation while on holiday in Cyprus.
   • He highlights how self-employment allows him to balance work with personal life, working 15-20 hours a week on average.
   • Importance of setting boundaries and recognizing when you’ve "made it" in terms of personal and professional satisfaction.
3. Transition from High Volume to Quality:
   • The shift from a high-volume, high-pressure environment to a more focused, quality-driven approach.
   • The initial guilt of working fewer hours and the adjustment to a new way of working.
4. The Value of Brand vs. Personal Brand:
   • Lee's perspective on the importance of having a strong brand to open doors and how it complements personal branding.
   • The role of brand recognition in gaining client trust and establishing credibility.
5. Starting Out in Self-Employment:
   • Advice for those considering the transition to self-employment.
   • The significance of taking risks and removing safety nets to truly test and realize one’s potential.
   • The importance of having a strong support system and being honest about where you stand in your readiness for self-employment.
6. The Power of Sales Training and Tonality:
   • Lee shares how sales training, particularly in tonality, has significantly improved his client interactions and conversion rates.
   • A specific example of how adjusting his approach during a valuation led to winning a difficult client.
7. Closing Thoughts:
   • Emphasizing the need for continual learning and developm

Engage With Us
Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes? Send us your thoughts and stay engaged with the Elite Agent Masterclass for more expert insights on transforming your career.

Connect with James on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with Jack on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn


Connect with TEAM on Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn