With a love of elegance and style, Kay & Burton’s Nicole Gleeson is “in her element” guiding her vendors to present their homes in the best light possible. This detail-minded approach has helped Nicole to build a clientele that allows referral to be a large part of her business.

Nicole is also well travelled, which adds an international perspective to her knowledge of the specialised Melbourne market.

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Relaxing in Capri, Italy. Source: Nicole Gleeson

WILLIAMS MEDIA spoke to Nicole about design and current conditions within the Melbourne prestige property market.

What are your predictions for the 2020 luxury market in your area?

I think the demand for luxury homes will always be strong for unique and quality offerings. It’s just a matter of timing to introduce the perfect buyer. Luxury buyers are aware that when the perfect home for them becomes within reach, they may not find another for some time.

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Source: Nicole Gleeson

What changes have you noticed with the easing of restrictions in the last few weeks?

The passion for real estate never goes away and we are feeling a positive message back from the market place.

The easing of restrictions has allowed our clients to feel comfortable and ok about entering homes again. Buyers are very respectful of people’s homes and happy to adhere to our new rules and social distancing with full awareness.

What advice would you give to vendors for the best outcome?

Present your home as beautifully as possible. The importance of this will never change but is more essential than ever to have a home that connects emotionally. Buyers want to fall in love!

What advice do you give buyers?

If you’re ready to buy, go for it. The stock levels are still reasonably low and if you find “the one” don’t hesitate and live with hindsight. 

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26 Errol Street Prahran VIC 3181 sold by Nicole Gleeson and Nicky Rowe of Kay & Burton. Source: Kay & Burton

What are vendors saying?

Vendors want to know the market is safe to venture out. We are guiding them with facts on sales transaction and the best way to seek their property. They trust us and are happy to be guided once they are aware of the activity we are seeing.

What are buyers saying?

There is an element among buyers that thinks they may buy well in this market. Ultimately, they are motivated by a transparent process and market demand. 

Have you noticed any changes in buyers and sellers since the COVID-19 situation?

Both buyers and sellers are being very respectful. Everybody seems on board with being as diligent as possible in sanitising and distancing. I’ve also noticed people are just friendlier and more caring on a day to day basis. 

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Source: Kay & Burton

Where do you see demand coming from?

Interest among local buyers is strong at the moment, however expats are discussing with us and planning their strategies to move back as soon as they can. We are expecting a strong demand from New York as well as Asia.

Are they typically looking to buy holiday homes or permanent residential?

It is an interesting time and people are reassessing their priorities.

Most buyers are looking for permanent residential, although some are now considering coastal living as their main residence. 

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Source: Kay & Burton

What are your interests outside of real estate?

Lockdown has given me time to really become obsessed with yoga and not feel the anxiety of the early get ups and time lines.

What is one thing you have learned over your years as a luxury agent?

People need to connect to a property with an emotive direction. Presentation and design are a big part of getting this right and that’s where I’m in my element. Taking them through this with detail of hidden highlights is essential. Gaining the trust of my clients brings everything together.

Related reading:

Expats returning home make up 30% of enquiry coming from offshore

Expats, Locals and Couples looking for more space dominate Market