How did you start in the real estate business?

My start in real estate actually came about from a “your parents knows best” conversation I had with my father. He was already a well-established real estate agent in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne and in all his wisdom, I think he saw a raw talent in me that I had not even recognised. It was through his persuasion that I agreed to join his agency and my first foray in real estate was in property management. Starting in the rental department may seem like a common denominator with most successful sales agents from my demographic because Property Management was a completely different industry 22 years ago and let’s just say, it made you a tough negotiator, which set me in good stead. It also made me come to the quick realisation that you get back from your clients and relationships what you put in. 

For me, unlike most real estate agents, it wasn’t an immediate love for property that drove my passion, it was the connection I built with people and witnessing the gamut of emotions that buying or selling a house brings. From the total elation of a seller achieving a price that they did not dare dream about to the sadness of  siblings having to sell the family home – it was knowing that they chose me to lead them through this. I used this to fuel my dedication to getting the best result regardless of the pursuit. My love of property was probably piqued when I opened my own agencies in the Inner north suburb of Northcote. The homes depicted both a classical era but tinged with homes built by European immigrants to the area.  The eclectic mix of properties was just a feast for the eyes and I developed a real love for architecture.

Have you always worked in this industry or did you do something else previously?

Growing up in what is classed as country Victoria, being Mildura, I was a stereotypical young man and found my interests were predominantly going out and fast cars, actually fast anything. But in reflection, my after school jobs always entailed an element of selling. My parents were always re-inventing themselves in the choice of work, having owned hotels, restaurants, clothing retail and even a video store. And I was always on board, front and centre.

What do you love most about your job?

The people you meet, the homes you get to represent, the balance of simultaneously negotiating with a buyer and vendor, the heat of an auction and the thrill of chasing the listing. My team that represent me and share my enthusiasm and the excitement of competing against some of the other powerful agents in the area and yet still winning!

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

I think our industry has already gone through an incredible transition and transformation over the last 20 to 30 years.  Not just with technology and the digital disruption that we are constantly reminded of, but with the importance of keeping things “real”. As real estate agents, we have somewhat been tarnished with the reputation of caring only about our commission and certainly some agents of yester years are probably to blame, but I know that together with my team, its about uniqueness and going the extra mile – I don’t know about doing things differently in our industry – for me it’s about my agents being different and standing out from the rest.

What’s your greatest career achievement?

To date, I would have to say that it is a very close race between three things I find exhilarating. Opening my own agency, holding the record sale for Northcote and being given the opportunity to represent the McGrath brand, particularly as one of its first franchisees in Melbourne.

Where do you live now?

Since moving into the inner northern suburbs some 15 years ago and experiencing its vibe, I do and always will live in the inner north.

See more: 

Get to know Dominic Gibson of Melbourne Acquisitions

Get to know Sam Kandil

Get to know Jennifer Rodezno

Get to know Leonard Teplin