David Tran is the principal of Laing+Simmons's first 'partership' office, in which the company takes an ownership position in the business. Tran had a successful career as a management accountant with Unilever, but after some years, decided he wanted to do something "more exciting" and entered a career in real estate.

How did you first get into real estate?

I was a young and enthusiastic financial management accountant working for international FMCG brand Unilever. It was all going to plan, I was promoted quite quickly, and I travelled to New Zealand to study supply chain and logistics. But something was missing.

I decided I wanted a more exciting career and, much to my mother’s disappointment and shock to my colleagues, I left to begin working as an agent for a much lower salary.

What do you love most about your job?

I love interacting with people and sharing my passion not just for property, but for life. If I can use my skills and knowledge to help other people to achieve their goals, then I consider it a job well done. It’s about doing this consistently so being passionate about what you do is important.

With the opening of the new Liverpool Laing+Simmons office, what are you most looking forward to?

I’m a local myself so I’m looking forward to providing the best possible customer experience to local people, and growing a business that will become a fixture in the local community. I also love being part of a team and the opportunities to collaborate with other passionate people, tapping into new and different ideas, to go beyond the customer’s expectations.

Can you tell us about the Liverpool property market at the moment - how is it faring, what is the outlook?

Liverpool is an interesting and diverse place. While it is a well-established area, in other respects - including as a property market – it is still in its infancy and on the cusp of significant growth. So it’s an exciting time for the market, as the area is changing. In fact, I’m planning to meet with Council soon to understand their perspective on the area’s future and their plans to accommodate this change. One thing for certain is that, with an influx of people, jobs and investment, the fundamentals for real estate will only improve.

What types of property sell well in Liverpool?

Residential real estate is in strong demand in Liverpool. In areas that are undergoing rezoning, there’s been a flow on effect of increased home values. One trend we’ve identified is an increasing number of home owners being approached directly by developers to sell privately. The risk here is accepting a price considerably less than what the property is worth on the public market.

Where do you live now, and where would you live if you could live anywhere in the world?

I live locally in the Horningsea Park area. Right now, I could honestly live anywhere in the world if I wanted to, however I choose to live close to my family and friends in this safe and beautiful country. Each day I find myself grateful for the beautiful weather and having good people around me.

I’m definitely a glass-half-full person and I like to live a harmonious existence. I’m naturally motivated to make the best of the opportunities I have. Australia is an abundant country, there’s plenty to share, and we need to show compassion for each other.

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