Graham Bowie told WILLIAMS MEDIA the media interest around 'Taj on Swan' was intense, however it was the perfect springboard for Sotheby’s Realty into the Perth market.

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

A wealth of life experiences is where I started in real estate in the early 90’s, with a background of radio/television/media experience followed by retail/hospitality management.

I would not have wanted to start any other way as this wealth of experience is a definite advantage, particularly in the premium end of the market.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

As much as I love seeing a plan coming together (in this case the development of Sotheby’s Realty across SA, TAS, WA, & NT), I absolutely enjoy listing, and the Sotheby’s Realty story makes all the difference.

Once I have that subtle nod of approval from the vendor, it’s the height of satisfaction.

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

In talking about interesting properties I’ve sold it could be a lengthy article so I’ll keep it as recent as last month with the sale of the 'Taj on Swan' land at Peppermint Grove in Perth for $17 million after auction. 

The vendors rang from India with the modest claim they had a block of land to sell in Perth.

As Sotheby’s Realty was yet to establish in the West I was almost at the point of referring the possible listing, but decided to check it out and quickly realised that the land in question was famous. 

Related reading: Infamous ‘Taj on Swan’ sold for $17 million

But as the Google story continued I realised it was infamous, having been for sale with every top agent in the city for a number of years after the vendors fight with the local council resulting in the demolishment of the ‘Taj’ mansion.

A story which local residents knew ‘oh so well!’

The media interest was intense, however it was the perfect springboard for Sotheby’s Realty into the Perth market, although I have a few extra grey hairs to show for the experience.

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

Apply to Sotheby’s Realty for a position, especially if you don’t have age as an advantage.

At least the company has been around since 1744.

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If you could change one thing about the real estate industry, what would it be?

In having to deal across multiple states I look forward to the day when there is one national real estate licence and associated laws and conditions. 

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

Generally speaking the South Australian market is stable and the best value in Australia, so the only way is up, even if it is at 1 per cent per annum.

Related reading: Get to know Grant Giordano, senior sales associate at South Australia Sotheby’s International Realty

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

Adelaide is home, one of the best cities in the world for quality of life but I get tempted every week with fabulous listings from five star accommodation in Kununurra WA, to a contemporary masterpiece home on the beach at Tennyson in SA, to a view over the ocean in TAS, and Darwin is exciting in so many respects.

My wife often asks the question, ‘where are we living this week?’ 

Related reading:

Get to know Kelly Qualtrough of Queensland Sotheby's International Realty - Brisbane Ascot

Get to know Barbara Wolveridge, director of Queensland Sotheby's International Realty - Tropical North Queensland

Get to know Joseph Lordi, senior sales executive at Queensland Sotheby's International Realty