Deanne Kriel

Pam Golding Properties

What are your top three secrets to success?

Immediate (as far as possible) response to web enquiries, SMSs, mails, calls and missed calls to buyers. Speed eliminates competition more than one realises. Follow up with a consistent plan of action for the time period the buyer requires, until they have bought or until they no longer have a buying need. Some need hours, others days or even months. Follow through on your promises/commitments made, even if you need to do it way after hours – clients value proactivity, professionalism, care, integrity and honesty. Show them that you truly care about their needs. The word of mouth of care spreads – it speaks to hearts. If you don’t sell to this client, his referral may buy – truly servicing the buyer leads to servicing the seller… and so the wheel turns. Do this daily – with true Pam Golding Property passion, dedication and love!

 

What is the one thing you wish someone had taught you or told you when you first started out in property and why?

To what extent you touch people’s lives (and them yours). Some have exciting reasons to sell/buy, others have devastating circumstances. It can be emotional – I listen with my heart.

What is the most vital business tool that estate agents should should have at their disposal in today’s market and why?

Latest apps, latest technology – you are a step ahead, not only of your competition, but can offer efficient and prompt service to the client.

Do you remember the first property you sold? Please tell us about it.

It was a 21m² bachelor apartment for R270 000 in a less sought after apartment block, relatively far from campus. It had a dirty bright blue carpet, minimal cupboards and a tiny bathroom. Needless to say, it had been on the market for a long time. Being my second week of working as an agent at Pam Golding Properties in 2003, I was super enthusiastic when I received the call from the client to view this property. I truly believed that this apartment was sellable, particularly at that price in Stellenbosch. I also knew that if the client was prepared to sacrifice his time to view it, the chances had to be favourable to sell it! Half an hour later, the contract was signed! This first sale motivated me to do another two sales one week later of over R3-million each. The seed was planted.

What advice would you give to new kids on the block about making a success of their career in property?

Stay focused on the positive aspects we are blessed with in this industry – even in hard times – and always be true to who you really are. People connect with ‘people’s people’ – from the heart.

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