One Sale A Day & Growing

Over the past two decades, Brendan Murphy has established himself as one of the area’s most trusted agents, leading the Barry Plant Wantirna office to sustained growth and recognition across Victoria.

Brendan’s professional journey began in 2003, after spending a couple of years travelling the world following high school.

“I didn’t really know what the future held,” he recalls.

“I went overseas, experienced different cultures, different people and different ways of life. It enabled me to mature quickly, and I think I was able to use that knowledge when I got into real estate, because at the end of the day, we’re a people business.”

Upon returning, Brendan enrolled in a two-week, in-person Agent’s Representative course at Swinburne and joined Barry Plant Wantirna.

“I could have taken a job in the city, but I thought it would be better to stay closer to home,” he says.

“Being local meant I could always fit people in, whether it was a viewing, a catch-up or an urgent request. I knew the area and the people, and that gave me a real advantage.”

From the outset, Brendan’s work ethic set him apart.

“I was the youngest person in the office at 23, and most of the other agents would leave around three o’clock. I was still here grinding, making calls and finding opportunities well into the evening,” he explains. “I think that work ethic really propelled me forward.”

Over the early years, he listed and sold between 50 and 60 homes annually, doing everything himself, from listing presentations to buyer appointments and open homes.

By 2010, Brendan had taken the leap into leadership, purchasing the Wantirna franchise at just 29 years old.

“The first few years presented many challenges, but I realised that to build the best business possible, I couldn’t do it alone. To grow a truly successful business, you need the right people with the right skills,” he says.

Over the years, he has built a strong leadership team, now with three other business partners, including Brett Smith, Daniel Cripps and Ricko Su, who have since joined and contributed to the office’s success, stability, diversity in leadership and long-term longevity.

Under Brendan’s leadership, Barry Plant Wantirna has consistently been among the highest-achieving offices in Victoria.

“In 2024, we finished the year as the second-best office in the Barry Plant group, which was an amazing achievement. When I bought the business in 2010, we were number 20. I thought, ‘I wonder what it would be like to finish in the top 10?’ And then a few years later, top five, top three, and eventually number two. The goal is to finish number one, one day.”

Brendan’s strategy combines market knowledge with careful team building.

“Market share is crucial. A few years ago, we were struggling in Wantirna but strong in Wantirna South. Strategically, we recruited agents with market share in Wantirna, and it really turned the tables,” he explains.

The office has also expanded into surrounding suburbs such as Knoxfield, Bayswater, Scoresby and Ferntree Gully, with agents positioned to handle local enquiries and dominate search results.

Looking ahead to 2026, Brendan is ambitious.

“We’re running at nearly a sale a day, and in the last 12 months we sold 353 properties. The goal is to push that to between 400 and 500,” he says.

“It’s not just about making more sales myself. It’s about finding the right people, bringing them into the business and setting them up for success. We handpick the right agents, not just anyone, and give them the tools and guidance to thrive.”

Despite his business achievements, Brendan prioritises balance and family.

“I have a beautiful partner, Annabel, and four wonderful children. Family time is important, but I’m still hands-on. This calendar year, I personally listed and sold 46 properties, so finding the right balance between work and family time is paramount,” he says.

“Working on the tools gives me a feel for the market and motivates the team. If I’m doing it, they know they can do it too.”

His competitive nature and local knowledge underpin the office’s culture.

“We treat people as people. We employ adults who are responsible and capable. There’s trust, fairness and a focus on results without micromanagement,” Brendan explains.

“It’s about being firm but fair, and creating a place where people feel supported and can thrive.”

Barry Plant CEO Lisa Pennell said it is always rewarding to see established business owners continue to challenge themselves and deliver outstanding results.

“Brendan has been with Barry Plant for more than 20 years, yet he continues to drive his office to innovate, grow and be the best it can be, as well as working collaboratively with the franchisor to help shape the entire group’s future,” Pennell said.

“Being ranked among the top two Barry Plant offices is a testament to his leadership and the strong culture within the Wantirna team, and I have no doubt they will keep pushing for the number one position,” she said.

Outside the office, Brendan is an accomplished marathon runner, property developer and avid fisherman.

“Work empowers life, and life empowers work,” he says. “Being happy at home makes you better at work, and being successful at work makes you happy at home.”

With a clear vision for growth, a strong team and deep community connections, Brendan Murphy continues to steer Barry Plant Wantirna towards new milestones.

“Real estate is more than transactions. It’s about helping people realise their dreams and achieve the best outcome with one of life’s greatest assets,” he says.

For Brendan, success is measured not just by sales, but by the relationships, mentorship and community impact he continues to build.