Wakefields Real Estate, Berea
What are your top three secrets to success?
When you first meet or speak to a client, listen to what they have to say and what they want.
Be honest with clients. You are helping them to make one of biggest investments of their lives.
Communicate with them and guide them through the whole process of buying or selling, and let them know you actually do care about them.
What is the one thing you wish someone had taught you or told you when you first started out in property and why?
Time Management – learning to prioritise your time, to deal with urgent matters first, is essential. Also, not to make too many lists on lots of little bits of paper!
What is the most vital business tool that estate agents should have at their disposal in today’s market and why?
A Smart phone! That gives you access to all the clients, the training, the websites, the updates and the information you need, and, most importantly, will allow you to talk to your clients wherever and whenever you need to do so.
Do you remember the first property you sold? Please tell us about it.
It was in the first month in which I became an estate agent, and the sale was to a dear friend, who said, “I will be your first Client/Buyer.” He bought a couplet in Morningside, Durban, for R20,000, in October 1988!
What advice would you give to new kids on the block about making a success in their career in property?
I would say make sure you like working with people, are really interested in property, and have enough money to fund yourself for at least 6 months so you are not operating under pressure. Most importantly, just enjoy what you do.
