This week on Before the Weekend (Friday 5th June 2026), Peter Schravemade and Kasey McDonald tackle another big week of headlines across the real estate industry.

The conversation begins with the rise of AI-powered prospecting after an ABC investigation into "Daniel", an AI sales caller allegedly contacting prospective property buyers. The pair discuss disclosure, transparency, and whether consumers really care if they're speaking to a machine.

They then unpack a bizarre sign war playing out in Logan, where directional signs fitted with Apple AirTags allegedly led one agent directly to a rival agency's bin. Is it petty competition, social media theatre, or something more concerning?

The discussion shifts to allegations of kickbacks in the strata management sector, exploring contractor relationships, procurement transparency, and whether reform is needed in building management and owners corporations.

Also covered this week:

• Property management trust account fraud in New South Wales
• A Victorian agent fined over licensing and trust account issues
• The importance of due diligence when buying property
• A landlord's failed attempt to recover damage costs after missing a tribunal deadline
• Gold Coast rents overtaking Sydney
• The impact of negative industry headlines on consumer trust
  

Plus, Peter previews an upcoming Quick Bite episode with Miami real estate leader and REIQ LIFT 2026 keynote speaker Ines Hegedus-Garcia.

AI Cold Caller "Daniel"

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-06-02/real-estate-agency-spams-phones-with-fake-ai-salespeople/106732950

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18wmQCvxpB/

https://apple.news/Amyw2SQC9QMex5V126N3tAw

https://www.realestatebusiness.com.au/property-management/31921-pms-reminded-to-be-upfront-after-landlord-loses-11-8k-in-damage-costs

https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/latest-news/estate-agent-mark-reuben-sentenced-for-unlicensed-trading

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msMWxZiz7Kw

https://www.couriermail.com.au/

https://www.couriermail.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts-qld/top-harcourts-brisbane-real-estate-agent-james-francis-connors-charged-with-rape/news-story/077722f68cef9d8a411ee392fb7e6358