Kay & Burton Director Gowan Stubbings is a committed real estate agent and highly competent auctioneer with a passion for property and a renowned energetic personality.

Prior to transitioning to the real estate sector in 1995, Gowan worked in the corporate sector specialising in sales and professional services. Upon moving into the property industry, Gowan was able to transfer these invaluable skills across sectors. 

He soon became involved in the development and management of a number of major projects in Melbourne and his ability to find buyers for highly desirable properties brought him considerable recognition in the industry. 

Source: Kay & Burton

WILLIAMS MEDIA spoke to Gowan about the Melbourne real estate market.

What are your predictions about the luxury market in your area for the rest of the year?

During the lockdown periods we have been through, it’s been interesting to see how the market has reacted. Given the current restrictions we will continue to see the market remain stable for the rest of this calendar year, with a solid recovery in all blue chip locations across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula as we move into 2021.

Image: Pre-auction meeting with clients - prior to Covid-19.  Source: Kay & Burton

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

Be prepared and ready. The current lack of available, quality homes has frustrated buyers who are ready and willing to buy. A key focus should always be on the presentation. Once buyers can come and visit and walk through homes, you want everything to be perfect for the pent-up demand that we will experience. If buyers see a home that they love, they will act quickly. Vendors need to be prepared. Take the time now to engage trades as we move into the Spring market which is traditionally our busiest time of the year. The market and buyers are definitely looking.

Source: Kay & Burton

What advice do you give buyers?

Given the current low levels of stock, if you do see the home that you can see yourself spending many years in, go for it!! Buying a home is not something you do often and it’s all about the connection you have. If you find that connection, it’s worth buying.

Image: Flinders Polo sponsored by Kay & Burton     Source: Gowan Stubbings 

What are vendors saying?

Our current vendors are all watching the market with great interest. They are in the market for a reason and that is to sell. They want to know that we are in constant communication with all buyers and have our fingers on the pulse. The shortage of stock is still producing strong results.

Image: Flinders Polo sponsored by Kay & Burton     Source: Kay & Burton 

What are buyers saying?

Buyers are still very keen to understand the availability of homes coming into the market and if the current levels are going to increase. There has been a significant increase in enquiry from both the expat market and the market from Asia. The limited supply is being noticed by these markets and this will be shown in the results in the next 12 months.

Image: Armadale Office opening party, Metro Gallery, Armadale.   Source: Kay & Burton

What changes have you noticed in buyers and sellers since the COVID-19 situation?

One thing I have really noticed is that people have more time to talk and I have enjoyed the real sense that “we are all in this together”. Given there are very few other positives that we have seen out of the virus, a real increase in community spirit has been brilliant to be a part of.

Being in lockdown has also given people time to consider how they are currently living and their own requirements. We have certainly seen a change in familys' needs given the recent working and schooling conditions.

Image: Flyfishing in New Zealand.  Source: Gowan Stubbings

What are your interests outside of real estate?

My time outside of real estate is spent enjoying all of my children’s sporting pursuits. That, combined with family holidays and a time away with friends flyfishing in NZ looking for the ever elusive Rainbow Trout of epic proportions. 

Image: With son, Harry at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. Source: Gowan Stubbings

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

Our clients are wanting to connect with “real” people. Real estate is an interesting industry and in general, so are the clients we work with. I have learned over the years that we need to have a real understanding of our clients’ needs and wants. The ability to listen, show respect and be empathetic are all incredibly important traits that are critical in our world.

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