About the Founder – John Kulper

My real estate journey began over 30 years ago, after serving in the Australian Army. On 20 February 1990, I earned my first Auctioneers and Agents Certificate and joined a Richardson & Wrench franchise run by my father. From day one, I didn’t just work in real estate — I lived it. Especially auctions. The energy still fuels me.

I co-owned a boutique agency in Newtown for over a decade, managing trust audits and sharpening my skills in compliance and risk. Later, I led national regulatory policy for the Federal Government, overseeing hundreds of audits at Approved Arrangement sites across Australia.

BARRA Realty began with one clear idea: put clients first, deliver honest advice, and chase results with purpose. We focus on quality over quantity — fewer clients, more care. Every property gets our full attention.

My experience spans Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and Inner West. I’ve also bought, sold, built, and developed residential and commercial property in Tasmania, Far North Queensland, and Bali. I’m drawn to spaces with soul — built with integrity, grounded in good design. I find inspiration in places like House of Bamboo and The Grounds.

Outside work, I stay grounded through family, sport, community, and a deep love of food. There’s always something on the stove or in the oven at our place — usually shared with friends and neighbours. 

Good food brings people together. So does good real estate.

You’ll find us at Bondi and Maroubra surf schools, tennis courts at Heffron Park, or cheering for my daughters at indoor volleyball in Bondi. They also study martial arts in Botany. I run mindfulness sessions in Little Bay and once helped escort lion cubs to their new home at Port Macquarie Zoo. I’ve studied screenwriting at NIDA, published children’s books, and support creative and community causes that matter.

I believe good business demands humility. Experience matters, but staying teachable matters more. I’ve learned as much from new agents as from seasoned professionals. As Steve Waugh once said, “You never stop learning. The day you think you know it all is the day you’re finished.”

I bring empathy, focus, and professionalism to every sale. I’m competitive when it counts and relentless when results are on the line. But I win by putting my clients first.

At BARRA Realty, we deliver with heart, precision, and integrity.

That’s my promise to you.
— John Kulper