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

I started with an independent agency in Orange NSW at 22. Prior to this I completed a degree in Exercise Science but after travelling abroad at the completion of my degree and working by chance in the property industry I was adamant I wanted to pursue a career in real estate.  I completed my necessary training and in an attempt to enter the industry applied for a job that would mainly entail erecting signs, dropping flyers, attending valuations, attending building and pest inspections and collecting bananas for my bosses wife at her request. The intention was to bide my time and through exposure to a great team, get a better understanding of whats involved.  I was extremely fortunate that the agency offered me a position with the sales team. Firstly as a home finder, prospecting for new business and learning the finer details of the industry and eventually progressing to becoming a standalone agent.  

What do you love about your job?

I enjoy the fast paced nature of the business and the reward of working hard, there is no limit to what you can achieve as an agent. Meeting people from all walks of life and ultimately assisting them achieve their property related goals is extremely gratifying. My role is also very diverse with no two clients circumstances being the same and therefore every day is different which is influential in keeping me fresh and focused.

Is real estate a good profession?

Real estate provides a variety of different career opportunities providing you have the ability to connect with people and a strong work ethic.

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

I'm strongly of the opinion that minimum education requirements needed to enter the industry should be reviewed. Its not coincidental that there are so many disgruntled consumers and that we consistently rank so poorly in terms of trusted professions. Lack of training and professionalism is a real concern within the industry. In saying that, I think there are some really great real estate professionals out there doing an exceptional job, are passionate about what they do and extremely knowledgeable. 

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

Be prepared to do the hard work. I was told prior to entering the industry that if I could get through the first three years, I was well on my way to success. A sales position can be very rewarding however you need to be prepared to roll up your sleeves and dedicate a lot of hours to your craft. Its not uncommon to see people enter the industry and within a very short time frame move on.  The job is harder and a lot more time consuming than the most think.

What do you think of talk that Sydney is headed for an inevitable property “bubble”? What’s your outlook for your area?

The Sydney market is extremely competitive and will continue to be so for years to come due to its increasing population and lack of available for development. Suburbs are slowly becoming unaffordable and buyers are beginning to explore alternate areas to both live and invest. I have recently moved from Orange and I'm now servicing the Eastern Suburbs and more specifically Randwick which is a high demand market due to its affordability in comparison to proximity to the city and other great services. 

Where do you live now?

My wife and I live in Drummoyne which we love, its close to the city, affordable and also very family orientated. We have a spoilt dog that requires a yard and we found we could get everything we needed here without compromising on location. 

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

I would love to be on a couple of hundred acres, where exactly wouldn't worry me as long as we weren't too far from isolation. Australia would be fine but if I had the choice of anywhere, the UK and France would also be considered I guess. Haven't given it too much thought to be honest.