After 30 years in business, brothers Scott and Darren Butler have seen more than just property prices change — they’ve witnessed an entire industry transform. From the early days of door-to-door listings and paper advertisements to the digital, data-driven landscape of today, their story mirrors the evolution of real estate itself.
“When we started, there wasn’t much development north of Balaclava Road,” Scott recalled. “The Boulevard estate didn’t even exist. We used to rely on signboards, newspaper ads, and open inspections — weekends were full of activity. You’d get buyers in the car, show them around, and work hard to close the deal. It was a lot more hands-on.”
Back then, information was something only agents could provide. “Now,” Scott said, “buyers know more about the market than ever before. They research online, check flood maps and past sales; we’re no longer the gatekeepers of information.”
That shift has reshaped how the Butlers and their team operate. “Our role today is less about handing out brochures and more about guiding people through the process, helping them make confident, informed decisions,” Scott explained. “Once we get buyers to the property, that’s where real salesmanship begins, pointing out the features, benefits, and fit for their lifestyle.”
Darren agreed that the fundamentals remain the same, even if the tools have changed. “It’s still about people,” he said. “Relationships, trust, and communication; they’ll never go out of style.”
Resilience, growth, and a holistic approach
The path to 30 years hasn’t been without challenges. Scott remembers the early stress of managing debt, staff, and growing a business.
“There was a point where I had 15 wages to pay and was a quarter of a million dollars in debt,” he said. “People don’t see that part — the hustle, the sacrifice. But that’s what it takes to build something that lasts.”
Becoming debt-free became a defining milestone, one that marked not just financial stability, but freedom to focus on the future. Today, Scott and Darren balance their thriving real estate business with other ventures, including Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Shepparton and several property investments, all while raising their families.
Scott credits longevity in business to taking care of both clients and oneself.
“If you don’t look after your health and mindset, you won’t last in this industry,” he said. “It’s about a holistic approach: exercise, balance, humour in the office, and checking in on your staff’s wellbeing. You’ve got to make it a fun and supportive environment.”
That philosophy has created a loyal team, with long-serving staff forming the backbone of the office. “We’ve probably hired more than a hundred people over the years,” Scott said, “but we’ve got a solid core now, people who genuinely care about what they do.”
