Lew Geffen, Southeby’s International, City Bowl
Why did you decide to pursue a career in property?
Property has been a part of my upbringing and family culture as far back as I can remember, so both consciously and subconsciously it has always been a part of my life, but while studying for my degree at the University of Notre Dame in Perth, Australia, the prospect of making property my career hit home forcibly when I found myself taking an immediate interest in the property segment of the course. It was primarily the fact that one could apply and utilise almost all facets of business in one model while being involved with serving and interacting with people day to day that excited me. Then, in my second year at Notre Dame, I was given the opportunity to undergo an intense three-month internship with Rory O’Rourke, who holds the record for 22 homes sold in one day and is a wealth creation genius. It was that fascinating experience that confirmed for me that my passion lay in real estate.
What do you find to be the most enjoyable and the most challenging aspects of the job?
I thoroughly enjoy tailor-making strategic, integrated marketing communication plans for my mandated properties and so assisting sellers to realise their maximum investment potential and aspirations. Furthermore, attaining record prices in an area always makes me feel proud, as I know it will increase prices for potential clients I may have the pleasure of working with in the future. I find time management a very challenging aspect of the job. I am so passionate about what I do that I often find myself going at it close to 24/7. Finding a few hours for much needed relaxation on the beach or for a quick surf can be very tough!
What characteristics, in your opinion, make for a great real estate agent/broker and why?
I believe there are two pertinent personal characteristics that I have learned apply to success in any aspect of life, and those are passion and drive. You have to feel strongly about and enjoy what you doing and be prepared to go to great lengths to make a positive difference in the lives of the people and community you serve. Furthermore, you need to have a burning desire to acquire as much knowledge as possible so that you can better serve your clients’ needs. I firmly believe that it’s imperative to be innovative in order to constantly improve the quality of service and value you provide. Finally, I think it’s important to acquire the intellectual resources to be able to mentor people new to the business and help nurture their progress in order to help them realise their goals for the future. In this way, one endeavours to keep good people in the system.
What are some of your career goals?
To be recognised as a highly skilled and approachable household name in the area in which I operate. To conclude 75 deals in one year. To continue to provide up-to-date information for the residents in my area so that they are aware of their property’s current equity position. To develop my skills in order to increasingly emulate the mentors in and outside of the industry who have taught and inspired me.
