One of the few things that forecasters agree on is that most individuals will experience many more job changes than was the case generations before.

A career in real estate is one of those pursuits where the combined strength of past life experiences and acquired work skills can create a winning combination. Coupled with a positive attitude and great communication skills, it is amazing how many people have built extraordinary careers in real estate. On inspection it is clear that the top real estate performers come from diverse backgrounds; retailers, butchers, mechanics, teachers and nurses (to name a few) but they are all linked by a common desire to succeed and deliver outstanding customer service.

I, myself, started my working career with Lands and Deeds and, believe it or not, while at school had aspirations of becoming an accountant. So it is no surprise to me to see people from all walks of life forge successful real estate careers. My decision to start in real estate was made over three decades ago and it is a decision that I have never regretted and an industry I continue to be passionate about.

Real Estate offers opportunity and flexibility beyond those of regular 9 to 5 based roles. It is a dynamic and engaging industry that ultimately centres around people. Real Estate provides rewards for those that work hard and are committed to going the extra mile. Recently though a famous real estate coach, Tom Panos, identified that hard work alone is not the make-up of a top performing agent. It is when this dedication is combined with diligence, organisation and prudence he believes you have a recipe for success. Theories aside, it is hard to identify who will make the “perfect” agent, however, in my eyes it should always come down to the following three things:

1. Service – A commitment to delivering outstanding service to your clients. Always doing what you say you are going to do and having a general desire to put people first!

2. Communication – It is vital to have clear and constant communication with clients regardless of the news that must be delivered.

3. Passion – Your attitude and energy is determined by your passion for the job so loving what you do is crucial.

Many people that enter the industry as a second or even third career often talk about having wished they had started with real estate earlier. So my advice to you? Don’t delay, join us at our upcoming Careers Evening to find out how you can enter the wonderful world of real estate or call me for a confidential chat.

TONY JENKINS
Harcourts Holmwood CEO
M 027 432 2896
tony.jenkins@harcourts.co.nz

As the warmer weather approaches and flowers start to bloom we head into a busy selling season in Christchurch real estate. Holmwood have announced another Gala Auction on Thursday 20th September from 6pm at our auction rooms (Ground Floor, 397-399 Ilam Road).

We have experienced fantastic clearance rates in our auction rooms over the Winter months and expect this to continue into Spring, so now is a fabulous time to list your property for sale by auction.

The Holmwood Spring Gala Auction packages include special marketing offers that are not to be missed. Speak with one of our consultants today for more information.

Prime Minister and new mum Jacinda Ardern’s creative talents have helped raise much-need funds for cancer research.

An artwork of hers was auctioned at Christchurch’s annual Cancer Society Ball, which on Saturday raised $167,000 for the charity – enough to fund one week of its services.

The Cancer Society, which needs $5 million to deliver accommodation, research, and patient welfare services this year, was thrilled to receive the sum through a combination of pledges, raffles and live and silent auctions.

Chief executive Elizabeth Chesterman said the event was a key fund raiser for the charity and “a wonderful and glamorous opportunity for our caring community to come together and contribute for the greater good of people in need”.

Television personality Hilary Barry was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening at Horncastle Arena, which about 850 people attended. The Eastern, internationally renowned DJs Sweet Mix Kids, and local duo Byllie-Jean and Simon entertained the crowd throughout the night.

An emotional speech from cancer survivor Carrie Broomhall left the room teary-eyed and “really [brought] it home, that that’s what we’re here for”, Chesterman said.

The ball elicited support from “so many, and that’s why its so special”, she said.

“There seemed to just be so many happy people there and they were once again incredibly generous, which is very humbling.

“It’s lovely to be at an event where people come for the right reasons.”

Guests bid on 13 “grand items”, including business class flights for two anywhere in the world and the Ardern artrwork, while the silent auction was conducted online. Combined, they raised $125,290.

A further $19,120 was raised through a raffle of a diamond ring, and 67 people pledged $250 each to fund scholarships for three students to undertake national and local cancer research projects.

Harcourts chief executive Chris Kennedy said the real estate company was “incredibly proud” to be the event’s lead sponsor for the third year running.

“While tonight we think about those who are suffering and have gotten the news, we’re also celebrating those who have gotten through, those who have survived.”

ADELE REDMOND

Stuff.co.nz