A major crackdown on unethical practices in the property sector has seen Joshua James Tesolin banned from operating in the industry for a decade, following findings of serious misconduct by NSW Fair Trading.
The decision disqualifies Tesolin from being involved in the management or operation of any licensed real estate business for 10 years, effective immediately. His company, Tesolin Consulting Pty Ltd, has also been handed the same 10-year disqualification, marking one of the most significant enforcement actions in recent years.
Investigations by NSW Fair Trading uncovered a pattern of sustained unlawful and dishonest conduct that impacted more than 100 property transactions. The findings raised serious concerns about consumer protection and transparency within the real estate process.
Among the key breaches identified were allegations of underquoting properties, where listings were advertised below their estimated selling prices to attract buyers. The investigation also revealed instances where employees were allegedly directed to falsify documents submitted to regulators, alongside failures in proper business supervision.
Authorities concluded that the conduct was not only improper but deliberate, posing a significant risk to consumers navigating high-value property transactions. The case highlights the importance of trust and accountability in an industry where financial decisions often carry long-term consequences.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong stated that strong action was necessary to protect consumers, emphasising that misleading practices and regulatory breaches will not be tolerated.
NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann reinforced this position, noting that maintaining fairness and transparency is essential to ensuring confidence in the property market. She added that decisive action will be taken whenever standards are compromised.
Consumers have been urged to verify the licence status of agents before engaging their services, with authorities encouraging the public to report any suspected misconduct. Details of the disciplinary action will be made publicly available through official government registers.
While Tesolin and his company retain the right to seek a review of the decision under NSW law, the immediate enforcement of the ban sends a clear message – regulatory bodies are taking a firm stance against unethical behavior in the real estate sector.
