REB Business Empowerment Showcase: Streamlining real estate transactions and compliance: How agents can work smarter with Lucas McEntee

In this episode of the REB Business Empowerment Showcase, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with Lucas McEntee, CEO and founder of SaleFunder, rebranded as Riverstone Partners, to explore how real estate agents can streamline transactions and navigate upcoming regulatory changes. McEntee reflects on the company's evolution, from a direct-to-consumer finance business to a service-focused partner for 6,000 agents across Australia, offering solutions such as vendor paid advertising (VPA) payments, BPAY, credit cards, and loans. The discussion highlights the challenges agents face, including administrative inefficiencies, trust account risks, and preparing for the upcoming anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) changes, which are set to take effect on 1 July 2026. McEntee explains how Riverstone Partners reduces a 12-step process down to just three, cutting costs, enhancing security, and allowing agents to focus on selling properties. He also emphasises the importance of understanding AML basics, knowing the customer, and integrating workflows seamlessly. Looking ahead, McEntee shares his vision for the future of real estate transactions, including secure, efficient alternatives to traditional trust accounts and the continued expansion of services to support agents in a rapidly changing landscape. His insights offer a roadmap for agents to operate more efficiently, securely, and profitably while confidently navigating regulatory changes. Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (REB Podcast Network) and by liking and following Real Estate Business on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend a voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights.