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The real estate agent who thrived five years ago may struggle to compete in the next five, as technology, regulation, and customer expectations rapidly reshape the industry.
Artificial intelligence (AI), greater access to market data, tighter compliance, and rising cyber security risks are redefining how agencies operate, forcing agents to adapt or fall behind.
Speaking on the REB Podcast, DiJones chief executive officer Dean Mackie and chief operating officer Brent May said the “agent of tomorrow” will need constant learning and sharper technical skills to stay competitive, or risk falling behind.
Mackie said agents who can master emerging technologies will be the biggest winners.
“From an agent’s perspective, if you’re good at grasping emerging technologies, you’ll earn more money,” he said.
“Agentic AI and control over your data will mean you can find buyers faster and deliver more efficient, lower-cost solutions to vendors.”
“Technology and customer expectations are changing the value points of an agent. Those who innovate and deliver better outcomes can command higher fees, while those doing the same-old are under pressure to lower theirs.”
To meet these shifting demands, the network launched DiJones University: a future-focused, people-first training program designed to lift performance, leadership and innovation across the business.
Delivered across multiple NSW campuses, the program blends immersive retreats, rapid innovation sessions, foundational training, and strategic workshops, with a strong emphasis on practical, immediately applicable learning.
The initiative was recognised at the REB Awards 2026, taking out Training and Education Program of the Year for its disruptive approach to agent development.
The curriculum tackles today’s challenges head-on, from volatile market conditions to AI-driven efficiency, supporting everyone from new entrants to established business owners.
May said the program was deliberately built to support agents at every stage of their career.
“DiJones University isn’t an academy, it’s an adult learning environment designed for all experience levels,” he said.
“Inspiration matters, but internal motivation to keep learning sits at the heart of our culture.”
“If you’re not in learning mode, you’re guaranteed to fall behind. What worked in the past won’t carry you forward; continuous learning is essential.”
Mackie added that the investment in training was also about building stronger, more scalable teams.
“Our aim is to create a business where people can achieve more than they could on their own,” he said.
“By giving power to purpose, and backing our people with the right tools, training, mindset and environment, we help them unlock their potential and perform at their best.”
DiJones University is now available to every team member across all divisions in the network and is fast becoming a cornerstone of the group’s performance-driven culture.
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