Why do you enjoy working as an estate agent?
I am passionate about working with clients, and I like to communicate with people. Estate agents can talk a lot!
What are the main tasks of an estate agent?
A real-estate business must be built on strong client relationships, repeat and referral business, and trust. If you are not communicating with your clients regularly, they will become someone else’s. Contact your clients and prospective clients regularly throughout the year by writing to them, as well as visiting and phoning them. You should also be continually advertising, updating your listings, working on your client database, sending e-mails, doing valuations, showing properties, and negotiating sales. If you do a good job for someone, or make a strong connection with them, they are likely to tell someone else about you.
The high interest rate makes buying a home more expensive. How has this affected your work?
It is an opportunity for me to get more stock, as sellers become more motivated to sell because bond repayments have increased.
What do you wish people knew about selling and buying a home?
Sellers must be realistic about the prices they want for their homes. They often turn down the first offer, which is generally the best one. Placing a home on the market before it is in the best condition is not recommended. Also, choose an agent based on their track record and ability to market your home, not because of the valuation they give.
Buyers should:
- Maintain their credit score;
- Determine what they can afford;
- Do a pre-approval;
- Set aside money for the hidden costs of buying a house; and
- Consider using a home-loan comparison service.
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A singer. I love music, because it tells a story and lets me escape. Where words fail, music speaks. It is the language of the spirit, and it brings peace.
What do you think makes you good at what you do?
I am always willing to go the extra mile for my clients, such as helping them obtain plans, closing municipal accounts and readings, and cleaning properties before they move in.
How did you end up in this job?
I wanted to be my own boss. I think I am ambitious and scared of failure. A job in real estate was also ideal because it allowed me to spend more time with my family.
What advice do you have for young people at the start of their careers?
Do not give up and explore all options. Try as many careers as you can until you find the one you love. And, lastly, learn from all your mistakes.
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