“I really wanted to create financial freedom for my family and I felt that property provided a couple of avenues.”
Shane’s property journey began while at IBM, when he purchased his first home and noticed the significant capital growth potential compared to salary increases. After creating equity in his first development project, he made the leap from corporate IT to property in 2009, initially focusing on development joint ventures.
Between 2009 and 2018, Shane built a development business managing up to 20 projects simultaneously, ranging from block splits to a nine-unit development. However, market changes around 2014, including lending restrictions and rising construction costs, created significant challenges.
“It never turns out like the feasibility study. Always accept that something’s going to go wrong.”
After reassessing his strengths, Shane joined Cohen Handler as a buyer’s agent before launching Locate Buyer’s Agency in January 2020. Despite the pandemic, he expanded his team and focused increasingly on family home buyers, finding greater fulfilment in helping people secure their dream homes.
“The level of training and mentoring at IBM was significant. I learned discipline, business skills, and professionalism that I’ve carried into my property career.”
Shane aims to continue growing his business while developing his leadership skills. His experience through development challenges has built resilience that serves him well in his current role, where he can focus on his strengths in property acquisition while helping families make life-changing purchases.
“When we buy for homeowners, the level of appreciation and fulfilment is extremely satisfying. People are super grateful and that feels really good.”
