How did you start in the real estate business? Have you always worked in this industry or did you do something else previously?

I was a former professional junior athlete (tennis player) and retired at 19 due to injury. Tennis was my passion for 14 years and it allowed me the freedom to travel the world but included many hours of vigorous training.

Once I retired, I enrolled in a sports business degree but worked part time at a property development firm where my passion for property developed.

As soon as I graduated, I began full-time work at McGrath Estate Agents. Despite my competitiveness (which stemmed from my time as a professional junior athlete), my career progression at McGrath was limited. Instead, I decided to work on the other side of the industry, at Australia’s largest buyers’ agency Cohen Handler. I have never looked back and cannot see myself doing anything else.  

What do you love most about your job?

Cohen Handler has been the most incredible company to work in. It’s the Google of buyers’ agents!

The people I work with are remarkable and there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t learn something new. The job itself lends me to meet many amazing people who become clients, and as a result friends.

Buying property can be one of the most stressful and challenging experiences anyone could go through. I become so involved in my client’s lives to ensure we are getting the best outcome and due to this develop strong relationships built on trust, honesty and commitment. I get to know all about their children, parents, animals and amazing vacations — it’s fantastic! 

Is real estate a good profession for women?

Yes. The real estate market in Australia has historically been very male dominated. As the future of Australia’s economy evolves, women are becoming more career focused and as a result we are seeing more and more women enter the industry.

I currently head up Cohen Handler’s Inner West office, working alongside three other female ex-real estate agents. I work with many couples or corporate females who prefer to work with someone they can relate to and in many cases, it’s another female! We are giving men a run for their money in the real estate industry! 

What would you like to see done differently in the real estate industry?

I would like to see advertised price guides on all listings and further regulations around under quoting as this is causing a lot of frustration for many buyers. 

What’s your advice to a young person thinking of entering the real estate profession?

One of the most important qualities we look for when hiring at Cohen Handler is a potential employee’s passion. This is the driving force behind someone wanting to grow, learn and be challenged. Experience comes with time but hard work, dedication and attitude is something you either have or not have. It’s a soft skill that cannot be learned easily.

Where do you live now?

I am an Inner West local and currently live in the beautiful suburb of Lewisham! 

What’s your dream home, anywhere in the world?

My dream home is a warehouse conversion/loft style apartment overlooking Central Park or a (Carrie Bradshaw) Brownstone house in New York.

See also:

Get to know Jennifer Rodenzo

Get to know Tisha Lee

Get to know Jenny Dwyer

Cohen Handler launches high-end property service

Sydney firm expands in Melbourne