Seef, Centurion
What are your top three secrets to success?
Thorough knowledge of the area where you are working, matching the right buyer to the right property and the ability to stay focused and positive and to never give up.
What is the one thing you wish someone had taught you or told you when you first started out in property and why?
There will be more disappointments than successes, but those few successes will far outweigh all the disappointments. Because when you know that, it helps you to keep persevering even when you feel like you are never going to succeed.
What is the most vital business tool that estate agents should have at their disposal in today’s market and why?
An iPhone; it gives you access to instant information anytime and anywhere. Information and the Internet have become vital tools for real estate professionals.
Do you remember the first property you sold? Please tell us about it.
Yes, it was in 2005, a new three-bedroom spec house on the estate where I live. The builder was delighted that I sold it quite quickly and got him the price he wanted, he did not complain about any of the details in the offer to purchase and signed it with a smile. A few days later, when he’d had time to reflect, he phoned and asked if there was any chance of reducing the commission. I felt a bit guilty telling him it was already with the conveyancing attorneys, but he replied, “Ag, no problem, just wondered, don’t worry.”
What advice would you give to new kids on the block about making a success of their career in property?
Be patient, learn your business, do the basics correctly, work hard, accept disappointments – there will be many – and success will come.
