MAIN IMAGE: Nicole Gasser, Anais Kayo, and Lulu Mpofu – Pam Golding Property Group, Hyde Park in Johannesburg
Pam Golding Property Group
Real estate can provide incredible opportunities for the right entrepreneur, as Nicole Gasser (NG), Anais Kayo (AK), and Lulu Mpofu (LM) from Pam Golding Property Group, Hyde Park in Johannesburg, can testify.
Why did you decide to become an estate agent?
NG: My love for real estate stems from several aspects: my interest in building an investment property portfolio, a book I read by Robert Kiyosaki that changed how I viewed my life and the direction I wanted to take—which became real estate—and my admiration of beautiful architecture and design.
AK: I chose to be a real estate agent because I have an entrepreneurial spirit and saw real estate as a prime opportunity to expand my ventures while allowing me the flexibility to manage my own schedule. Real estate supports my entrepreneurial aspirations and enables me to engage with people from all walks of life, which I find deeply fulfilling.
LM: I decided to become a real estate agent when we were buying our home. The two agents we dealt with were so professional in their approach and assisted us through the entire process. Watching them do their work sparked my interest in the industry, and soon after that, these agents helped me join Pam Golding Properties, and the rest is history.
What makes you so successful, and what is important for success in today’s market?
NG: Consistency, discipline, and the courage to show up and believe in yourself daily will help you achieve the success you need to go from good to great. Markets may change, but what remains consistent is the integrity and respect you have for yourself and your business as a real estate agent. Finally, you need to align yourself with a company, brand, and people you aspire to.
AK: My success in today’s market stems from a strong desire to excel and a belief that “winning is a habit.” This mindset drives me to maintain a positive attitude, regardless of market trends. I prioritise my clients’ needs, navigate through challenges, and find effective solutions. My commitment to staying focused and adaptable ensures that I can thrive and deliver results in any market condition.
LM: I am a very hard-working person and have a strong passion for what I do. These two traits are important parts of being a successful agent. Furthermore, I enjoy what I do and am driven to achieve results regarding the goals that I set for myself.
What advice can you offer those considering entering the industry as a female agent?
NG: One needs to come on board with an entrepreneurial mentality and attitude, understanding that being a real estate agent is a full-time job that requires dedication and a committed mindset to grow one’s business daily. If you are new to the industry and do not know what to expect, I would recommend talking to a few agencies and getting a feel for the real estate business. Remain knowledgeable, and don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself.
AK: My advice for women considering entering the industry is to develop strong interpersonal skills and maintain a positive mindset. Be authentically yourself. Combining these qualities with hard work and determination will set you apart in the industry.
LM: The advice that I would offer to any female wanting to enter the industry is to always recognise that our industry is a service-based industry that requires us to always foster good relations with people, whether be it sellers, buyers or tenants. The goal is to ensure that at the end of every transaction, you, as an agent, have done the best you can do to satisfactorily deliver on the mandate of the client and, in the process, not forget to positively represent the company that you work for.
