Home, Sweet Home

By MiNDFOOD

Home, Sweet Home
Thinking about a career in real estate? Working in the real estate profession can mean weekend work and challenging clients, but it also can be greatly rewarding to assist people with important decisions such as buying, selling or renting a home. Some of the team from Bayleys share their insights and experience of the industry.

SIMON SHARPIN

Having been involved in the agricultural sector his whole life and having a passion for dealing with people, moving to rural real estate was a natural fit for Simon.

Why did you get into real estate?

The opportunity of a scholarship was given to me by a former manager. I was looking for a career change and decided to give real estate a go.

What was involved in becoming an agent?

I studied my papers through Open Polytechnic. After that, I was taken under the wing of a senior agent in Bayleys who helped me find my feet and start to get established.

What’s your favourite part of working in real estate?

The people you meet and deal with. I have met some fantastic people through real estate.

And the most challenging part of the role?

Learning how to budget properly. Something that’s never been my strong suit.

What attributes does someone need in order to be an effective agent?

Flexibility and patience.

How is the role of real estate agents changing? What does a usual day in the life of a real estate agent look like?

I’m sure it’s changed a lot over the years but the fundamentals are still the same. Phone calls, emails, showing buyers property and meeting potential new vendors.

 

JO McINTOSH

First impressions are vital in real estate and with a background in interior design residential real estate, agent Jo knows how to present homes at their best.

Why did you get into real estate?

I love homes and interiors and people.

What was involved in becoming an agent?

Getting my licence and getting my head around being commission based.

What’s your favourite part of working in real estate?

The people I work for, the people I work with and the variety you get in a working day.

And the most challenging part of the role?

People’s emotions.

What attributes does someone need in order to be an effective agent?

Be a good listener, have empathy, care about people and know what you are talking about.

How is the role of real estate agents changing?

You need to be well skilled in your job and constantly learning.

What does a usual day in the life of a real estate agent look like?

Talking to people is huge— don’t get stuck behind a computer, get out there and talk to people. Give time to people and you will be amazed at what will come back to you. It’s all about people, people, people.

 

BIANCA DAVIDSON

Being awarded the inaugural Rosemarie de Jong Memorial Award for Outstanding Excellence in 2018 reflects Bianca’s dedication to her career in residential real estate.

Why did you get into real estate?

I began in an administration/marketing role before knowing I wanted to progress further into becoming a salesperson.

What was involved in becoming an agent?

I completed my real estate papers through Bayleys Property College/Skills online. I was able to complete the course in my own time, independently with support from management when needed. Having known the ‘back end’ of the industry through my prior experience was a huge benefit.

What’s your favourite part of working in real estate?

Exceeding vendors expectations and achieving great results is one of the greatest fulfilments.

And the most challenging part of the role?

Missing out on a listing presentation is always tough, but it also gives me an opportunity to improve for next time.

What attributes does someone need in order to be an effective agent?

Being hardworking, having a positive attitude, consistency, confidence and communication.

 

To find out more about a career in real estate visit [email protected].

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