My Neighbourhood with Byron Kerr
Teleisha Thomas
June 2025In this article, Byron Kerr, Managing Director of Jellis Craig Kingston, shares his journey from commercial property to leading two high-performing residential real estate offices. At home, he and his wife Josie raise daughters Lyla and Ella, along with their golden retriever Polly, balancing busy careers with family breakfasts, and life lessons in empathy and resilience.
What initially drew you to the real estate industry?
My path into real estate began with a gentle nudge from my father. At 21, fresh from a commerce degree and unsure of my next step, he arranged a meeting with the Dean of RMIT’s Property program. That conversation sparked my interest in the strategy and scale of the industry. I spent my twenties at two major Melbourne development firms, watching ideas become buildings, then added a postgraduate diploma in property valuations and a Master’s in Property Business. Those years quietly built the foundation for the career and business I lead today.
Is there a standout memory you have from an auction or property story that captures the spirit of the neighbourhood?
One that stands out involved an elderly woman selling the family home after losing her husband. For her, this wasn’t just a sale it was the closing of a chapter filled with decades of memories. We took the time to guide her with empathy, offering clarity and reassurance when she needed it most. When the property sold, there were lots of tears, a mix of grief and gratitude.
In that moment, and many since, I’ve come to appreciate that the true impact of our work isn’t just in the result, but in how we show up for people when they’re at their most vulnerable. It’s the trust and understanding—not just the mechanics—that leave a lasting legacy.
What were some of the key milestones or turning points along that journey?
Enrolling in a Certificate IV in Property Services was a key turning point that opened my eyes to the agent’s world, where connection, negotiation and emotional intelligence matter as much as technical expertise. Auctioneering, the final subject, was transformative. I still remember standing at the front for the first time, trying to navigate the energy of the room. It felt natural, like all the pieces of my journey had finally clicked into place.
It felt natural, like all the pieces of my journey had finally clicked into place.
Recently celebrating your 10-year wedding anniversary with Josie, how has life in this area shaped your family’s journey?
We constantly remind ourselves how incredibly fortunate we are to live so close to the ocean. Josie always says there’s something calming about the sea air, and she’s right. There’s a peace that comes with being near the water that’s hard to describe but easy to feel.
Josie and the kids are often out running the local tracks or exploring one of the many nearby parks. I do my best to keep up with them. It’s become one of our favourite ways to stay connected and spend time together.
We love the incredible range of food options right at our doorstep. From casual bites to more refined dining, we enjoy discovering something new each week. When it comes to raising our daughters, having access to excellent schooling options has given us real peace of mind. And after ten years, I can honestly say we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
Do you have any favourite local spots in Mentone, Chelsea or the surrounding suburbs; cafes, parks, or hidden gems?
Truly Scrumptious in Mentone is a morning staple for us, their coffee is hard to beat and for lunch you’ll usually find us at The Corner Store in Mentone or Edithvale General Store. Huff Bagelry is always buzzing, and for dinner, Just Italy serves up handmade pasta and pizza that’s hard to pass up, along with the consistently reliable Castellos Longbeach Hotel in Chelsea.
A special mention to Mordialloc, as the area has really stepped uplately too, with exciting new additions like Chiki Chan for top-shelf Asian fusion and Rococo for incredible Italian, both adding so much to the growing culinary scene in Kingston. If you’re after a scenic walk or a relaxing spot post-meal, Peter Scullin Reserve offers lovely bay views, and the Long Beach Trail is perfect for a stretch along the coast. It’s an exciting time to be a local foodie in this part of Melbourne.
Where would we find you on a Sunday morning if you weren’t working?
Sundays are our dedicated family time. The kids lead the morning, usually with colouring, Barbies or Bluey. It’s relaxed and full of laughs. In the afternoon, we’ll head out to see friends, visit a park, or grab a bite nearby. It’s our day to slow down and really be present with each other.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I met my wife while trying to sell her house. Easily the greatest listing I’ve ever had (as she reminds me). It was a real sliding doors moment. What started as a professional connection quickly turned into something much more, and the rest is history. Ten years of marriage later, we still joke together that I didn’t just help her move houses, I moved in myself.
What’s a valuable lesson you hope to instil in your daughters as they grow up?
One thing I really hope to instil in my daughters is the idea that if you do what you love, the rest will take care of itself. It’s something I’ve learned through my own journey, following what drives you, what brings you joy, tends to open the right doors in life, both personally and professionally.
They’re already kind, thoughtful and self aware (thanks largely to their mum) and watching them grow into confident, compassionate young girls has been a true privilege. With their drive and empathy, they’ll thrive no matter what path they choose.
Contact Byron to discuss your investment goals in Kingston.
Byron Kerr | Managing Director
Jellis Craig Kingston
M 0421 192 271
