Darren Curtis' portfolio includes the oldest freehold home ever to be offered in Australia, Glenfield, built in 1812.

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

I have worked in the industry since 2000, straight from university.

I was all set to begin in an entirely different field but saw an ad for ‘real estate,’ applied, and before I knew it, I was sitting in a sale’s role in Notting Hill, London.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Since coming to Australia in 2006 I have worked for Christie's International Real Estate and the main thing that I’ve always enjoyed (and appreciated) is the fact I have no geographical boundaries, so I sell all over. 

I have been lucky enough to not only see some of the country’s best homes but some wonderful areas all over the country.

Related reading: House price drops in Sydney and Melbourne not as "dramatic" as we are led to believe

Can you tell us about an interesting property you’ve sold?

They are all interesting!! In terms of interesting backgrounds, I did sell the oldest freehold home ever to be offered in Australia, Glenfield. 

It was built in 1812 and fully restored by Sydney Living Museums (known then as the Historic Houses Trust).

It was phenomenal and staggering to see and feel just how people lived back then.

We even dressed it with colonial furniture, people flew out from the UK with furniture that dated back from that time.

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What’s your advice to young people starting out in real estate?

Don’t worry about the commissions!! Stick to acting for the sellers and answering any questions, fears or worries buyers may have, and the money will follow.

What’s your outlook for the property market in Sydney for the next 12-18 months?

The most crucial and relevant point for us is the acute shortage of good quality stock in all areas.

We experience a good level of enquiry and prices are holding for this reason.

Related reading: Australian housing downturn gathers speed

I understand there is a lack of confidence in the broader market but in our sector this solid level of enquiry (including healthy overseas enquiry) should mean the next 12-18 months are positive for our clients.

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Tell us about Christie's International Real Estate's expansion into South East Queensland.

I have worked in those areas (from Double Bay) for several years now, and there are some genuinely fantastic homes.

Our feeling is that the time is right for our approaches and methodology to be introduced.

Interest has been growing in this area (and in QLD generally) and there is certainly a perceived value for money compared to Sydney and Melbourne.

It seems a natural fit for us to have a physical presence in this area and we are looking forward to beginning this part of our journey.

Where do you live now, and what would be your dream home if you could live anywhere in the world?

I live on the Upper North Shore at the moment.

Rather than choosing a location to be based in, I think it is important to have the time, flexibility and ability to visit as many interesting places as possible!

Long term I think we may base the family in Byron Bay, but let’s see!!  

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