Sales agent at Ray White Mernda, Chloe Topouzis, has carved out a remarkable path as the youngest female auctioneer in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and the only female auctioneer in Mernda. 

Her journey into auctioneering began with the encouragement of directors, John Metaxas and Steve Gruevski, who saw her potential early on. Chloe was later a finalist in the 2023 Novice Auctioneer of the Year competition for the Ray White Victoria and Tasmania network.

“From my start at Ray White Mernda, John and Steve encouraged me to pursue auctioneering. I began by reading the auction conditions and introduction, gradually building confidence to conduct full auctions,” Chloe said.

Reflecting on her experience, Chloe highlighted the thrill of auctioneering and the unique reactions she receives from vendors and buyers.

“I thrive on the controlled unpredictability of auctions and enjoy the unexpected reactions from vendors and buyers when I announce I’m the auctioneer -  sometimes they think I’m joking,” she said.

Chloe encouraged young women considering a career in auctioneering to take the plunge. 

“Just do it! Attend all training sessions, whether organised by your agency or another agent in your office. You won’t regret it, and it will change your career for the better,” she said.

As for her pre-auction rituals, Chloe keeps it simple but essential with two non-negotiables. 

“Two things I always do before an auction are drink water and apply lip balm. Talking for 30 minutes straight always results in a dry mouth and dry lips, so I like to have that covered beforehand,” she said.

Her role as an auctioneer has also significantly boosted her sales career. 

“Being an auctioneer has definitely accelerated my career by giving me an edge over the competition. Vendors appreciate that I handle their open homes and auctions, and buyers feel more comfortable bidding with someone they've already met,” she said.

While every auction is memorable, Chloe finds humour in the frequent surprise of attendees. 

“It’s always funny when the comments start rolling in after the auction saying, 'We didn’t realise it would be you doing the auction,'” she said.

With her passion, skill, and trailblazing spirit, Chloe is paving the way for future female auctioneers in the industry and her team couldn’t be prouder of her.

"Chloe provides a unique and refreshing option as a female auctioneer within our team. She has been breaking barriers, inspiring change, and delivering powerful results with her confidence and charisma for years,” Ray White Mernda director John Metaxas said. 

“We look forward to seeing how she continues to grow as an agent and as an auctioneer in the future." 

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