Meet the Agent: Brendon Funnell - a passion for property and the outdoors in the Upper Highway

With nearly two decades in the property industry, this Upper Highway local has built more than just a career- he's built a lifestyle. Starting his real estate journey in 2007, becoming a Principal in 2013, and later rebranding to The Real Estate Company in 2018, Brendon Funnell's story is one of passion, persistence, and deep community roots.

He doesn't just work here - he lives here

Specialising in the scenic Upper Highway Region of KwaZulu-Natal, he knows the area inside and out—and not just from a property perspective. “We live here, my kids go to school here, we socialise here, it’s a complete lifestyle,” he shares. 

Photo supplied by Brendon Funnell

“It’s a beautiful area with spacious, well-priced homes, surrounded by conservancies and lush greenery. The climate’s great (when it's not too damp), and there’s never a shortage of things to do.”

Real estate in the blood

His journey into real estate was a natural - following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a real estate agent.  He says that it felt like the obvious path. "My first sale happened on my very first show day in 2007. First show house, first client, first offer - sealed the deal," he says. Adding that he "got lucky, but it sparked something big for my future.”

Maybe it is the spark that carries him through his busy show days - or perhaps it is his Stanley with cold water and ReVive sachet mixed in. “I’m not a coffee fan - shock horror!" Whatever it is that keeps him going, it definitely works like a charm!

What is happening in the local market?

The local market is evolving, with a noticeable trend towards downsizing. “We’re seeing less semigration to the Cape, and more locals choosing to move into complexes and gated estates, and the area is not short on great options. 

He says that right on the top of every buyer's most asked questions list is how homes have fared in recent floods, crime stats, and of course, ‘what’s the best price?’ 

The truth about starting in real estate

New agents often underestimate the hustle it takes to survive the first year. “It looks glamorous, but the reality is you wear many hats. Rejection is part of the job. He advises that new agents should grow a thick skin quickly. Adding that "if you can make it through that first year, you’ve got a good shot at long-term success.”

Tech and the future of real estate

He’s a big fan of embracing real estate technology, especially when it helps streamline the process.

“I love that tech is evolving in the industry. We use Entegral for our listing management, and I’d love to see more innovation, especially a digitised property transfer system where all role players communicate efficiently. Imagine if digital signatures for OTPs were legally accepted, it would be a total game changer!”

Like many other professionals who receive numerous emails daily, he would love to automate the process of replying to emails. Now wouldn't that be a dream?

What’s on the horizon?

Like the real estate pro that he is, he is already looking ahead and finding ways to streamline his office, becoming more eco-conscious along the way! “Right now, we’re transitioning all our Sales and Letting packs into fillable PDFs to reduce admin time and paper waste. That’ll roll out by June. I’m also due to renew my 3-year FFC in July- hopefully with no hiccups," he says

As for long-term goals? He is playing his cards close to his chest for now, but he is very excited for what lies ahead.

Beyond the business

When he’s not closing deals, you’ll likely find him deep in the bush, camera in hand.

Photos supplied by Brendon Funnell

Not only an avid wildlife photographer, Brendon is deeply involved in the local community and conservation efforts, so much so that he started a local birding group that organises guided tours to explore the incredible birdlife in the area. 

Photos supplied by Brendon Funnell

“Wildlife photography is a passion, but more than that, I love disconnecting from screens and reconnecting with my wife and two daughters. Camping trips and game reserves are our go-to."

As interest rates and market sentiment continue to shift, he remains hopeful for a few more rate cuts before the end of 2025. But no matter what the market does, he’s always ready to help clients take their next big step - one home at a time. 

Want to work with Brendon? Visit his full premier agent profile website