Meet Matthew – Q & A Session

Today, we dive into a Q & A session with one of Sparrow’s standout agents. His journey from a different industry into the realm of real estate offers valuable lessons and a fresh perspective.

Starting his career in New Zealand before moving to Australia, our agent has a rich background in security and quality management. This experience gave him a strong foundation of professionalism and ethics. A career twist led him into the real estate world where he found his true calling. From working as a Business Development Manager to transitioning into sales, his path has been anything but linear.

Why did he choose Sparrow? The answer lies in the agency's flexible and ethical approach. This allows agents to tailor their methods to the needs of their clients, ensuring a more personalised and effective service. At Sparrow, lower fees don’t mean lower quality. Instead, it signifies a commitment to providing the best service possible without unnecessary costs.

Stay tuned as we explore more about his unique journey, the benefits of working with Sparrow, and how his approach stands out in the real estate crowd.

How Did You End Up in the Real Estate Industry?
I moved to Australia in 2001 from New Zealand and began my career in security. I worked for companies like Chubb Security and SNP Security as a Monitoring Centre Operator. Then, I transitioned into training for a couple of years before moving into Quality Management. By 2008, I moved to Brisbane and headed up the Queensland division of a guarding company for three years.

After working for three years as the Sales Manager at L & H Security Management in Brisbane, I felt it was time for a change. Real estate was never on my radar, but I decided to give it a try. I started as the Business Development Manager for rentals at Bruce Harry Real Estate in Holland Park. This role allowed me to test the waters of the real estate industry.

As I transitioned from the role of Business Development Manager to sales, I found my passion. It turns out I enjoyed real estate more than I expected. My career choice proved to be a perfect fit. This journey, from security to real estate, helped shape my approach to real estate, emphasising ethics and professionalism.

Why Sparrow?
My first brush with real estate selling was using the Jenman System at Bruce Harry Real Estate, which is based on ethics and has been around since the late 1980s. Though it was a great environment to start, I soon felt that selling isn’t a “one size fits all” approach. Flexibility is crucial in real estate, and that’s what I wanted for my clients.

Leaving Bruce Harry Real Estate was a tough decision, but it was necessary when I noticed their rigid system wasn’t always the best fit for every client. Afterward, I joined Place Estate Agents, which offered more flexibility but at a higher cost for the clients. The marketing fees were steep, and I felt that the value provided did not always justify the expense.

At Sparrow, I found the perfect balance. Here, the focus is on tailored solutions for each client. We provide services that match the needs of our sellers without unnecessary costs. The agency’s commitment to ethics and honesty aligns with my own values. With competitive fees and incredible service, Sparrow stands out as a great choice for anyone looking to buy or sell property in Brisbane.

How Can You Offer the Lower Fees That You Charge?
I keep overheads low compared to traditional agencies, which allows me to offer more competitive rates. Here are some key reasons why I can provide lower fees:

1. Minimal Branding Costs: Most of my advertising is online, reducing expenses significantly.
2. No Royalties: Unlike large agencies, I don’t pay royalties to a head office, saving a lot of money.
3. Client-Centric Approach: I'm committed to helping clients for a reasonable fee, rather than maximising profits.

An important aspect is my priority to serve clients without imposing high costs. I believe in providing value for money while ensuring top-notch service. My focus is on delivering results without burdening clients with exorbitant fees.

How Do You Stand Out from the Crowd?
My approach in real estate is unique due to several factors:

Transparency: I always provide clear information about pricing expectations and market conditions.
Feedback: I give honest buyer feedback, including potential negatives, so you are fully informed.
Flexible Strategies: I am open-minded about pricing strategies and tailor them to fit each client’s needs.
Relationship Building: I focus on building real relationships, not just securing listings. I do everything to help my vendors move forward with their lives.
Commitment: I go above and beyond to meet and exceed client expectations. Patience and understanding are key traits that set me apart.

These practices ensure a stress-free experience for both buyers and sellers, making the process smooth and rewarding.


Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial for a successful property transaction. Understanding my background, you see the dedication and ethics I bring from previous industries into real estate. The choice of Sparrow was driven by a need for flexibility and a commitment to ethical practices, setting us apart from traditional agencies.

Lower fees don’t compromise service quality. My unique approach ensures transparency, honesty, and personalised strategies. Each client receives tailored solutions designed to achieve the best outcomes. Experience has taught me that flexibility and a client-centric focus are key to successful real estate transactions.

If you're considering buying or selling property, I invite you to experience the difference at Sparrow. Let's work together to achieve your Brisbane real estate goals with transparency and integrity. Contact me today to get started on your property journey with confidence.