Chas Everit International, Constantiaberg
Why did you decide to pursue a career in property?
After seven privileged years of raising our two sons I knew I wanted to get back to earning money, but in something that I would find fulfilling, flexible and challenging. Becoming an estate agent was the natural choice because I have always loved anything and everything to do with what, why and how people choose the homes they live in.
What do you find to be the most enjoyable and the most challenging aspects of the job?
The most enjoyable aspect is finding stock because it’s in such short supply at the moment. Apart from that, interacting with people, getting to know them, judging their reactions to a property, seeing
their delight when they have found just the place they were looking for is really great. Most challenging aspects are the grind of starting a database of contacts, cold calling people to establish if they are potential sellers and the low of finding that the property you were on your way to list has just been taken off the market.
What characteristics, in your opinion, make for a great estate agent/broker and why?
I think if you are a likeable person who can really listen to and understand a buyer or seller’s wishes and dilemmas and can act on them swiftly, efficiently and consistently, it will win you many fans. Tenacity will also stand you in good stead – you have to learn to surf the ups and downs and always be willing to keep on going.
What are some of your career goals?
As an intern, my first goal is to complete the qualification necessary to upgrade to a full-status agent as soon as possible. New EAAB regulations mean this is a lot of work, but if done properly, it will ensure that people entering this industry are thoroughly trained and qualified. Simultaneously I am working alongside my fantastic colleagues who have proven track records in this business to establish myself as a ‘go-to’ agent for Tokai. I aim to capitalise on the resources afforded me by Chas Everitt to be the different, service-orientated and enthusiastic agent of choice.
