"We recently had the pleasure of working with Liana and her family, who were facing significant challenges in their search for a rental home.

With 12 members in their family, the stress of finding suitable accommodation was overwhelming, especially given the limited options for larger groups and the reluctance of many landlords to accept them.

Our leasing consultant Sophie truly went above and beyond in supporting them during this tough time.

After hearing about the family's struggles and their numerous rejections, she took the initiative to personally reach out to Liana.

They had a heartfelt conversation about their specific needs and preferences, allowing Sophie to understand just how important this search was for the family.

Sophie quickly recognised the family's impeccable rental history and how well they maintained their current home, which was treated like a display property.

Understanding the urgency of their situation, Sophie acted swiftly when she learned about a rental that was about to go online. She reached out to the owners to ask if she could bring Liana and her family through the property off-market.

Thanks to Sophie’s proactive approach, the family fell in love with the home and submitted their application immediately. The owners accepted their application, providing a much-needed solution for Liana and her family. Sophie's dedication and compassion truly made a difference in their lives during this challenging time."

    - Bridget Daly, department manager - Ray White Cranbourne & Cheltenham, VIC

What advice do you have for larger families looking for a rental?

Look at as many properties as you can. It is stressful when there is a limited number of properties that will have the room you need. Ask lots of questions to the person showing you the property; we honestly appreciate it so much.

A cover letter explaining about yourselves and your families is also really helpful, it helps us understand more about you. Have your application ready to go, ensure that you have covered everything and provide all the documents you can, to help us understand your situation. 

What advice do you have for property managers looking to help house a larger family?

Often these families have a very limited list of properties they can look at, in my experience. I knew this family that I helped was a large family, looking specifically for five or six bedroom properties. I looked into what our property manager had coming up on their listings, as well as speaking to our sales team and our business development team to see if we would have anything that would suit. These families appreciate you going above and beyond, and it’s a win-win for your owners as well, especially if you can lease the property off market for them at a good rental return.

How did you get into the industry?

I was always interested in the property management and leasing in the early years, but never had the confidence to put my foot forward and apply for an entry role. I went for an interview to be a receptionist at a small real estate agency and instead got offered a leasing consultant role and I haven’t looked back. I have been with Ray White Cranbourne now for three years.

What do you love about property management?

Being in the leasing field, it’s something different everyday. I’m always learning something new. My favourite part of my job being able to help people in their time of need, when they need to find a roof to put over their heads. It’s so satisfying knowing I had a part to play. 

What are your top tips for preventing burnout?

Definitely having a work/life balance. Shut your computer down at the end of your work day and go home and enjoy your downtime. Making sure you set clear expectations with clients and other staff on work hours and when they should expect a response, and holding yourself to those expectations. Always allow yourself to have fun at your job, whether it’s a good laugh with your colleagues or going out for lunch with a group to break up the work day, and not feel like you’re drowning. My belief is that to do well at your job, you have to enjoy it first and foremost. 

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