On getting into real estate
I chose to be involved in real estate as a franchise manager for a national brand in 1993, with no intention of staying solely in real estate. I very quickly came to realise that I enjoyed the industry and the people within it, and progressed to a national management role quite quickly. An opportunity then opened up to join the Barry Plant Doherty Group (as it was known then), which included the potential to become a partner in the business, which was too good to refuse. Best move I ever made!
The happiest moment in my career
Working with our franchise directors to grow their businesses, as well as working to grow our network from 29 offices to around 80 and market leadership in Victoria. I know it sounds like a cliche, but working with our franchisees and seeing them succeed is incredibly satisfying. The most satisfying moments were seeing our group ranked number one nationally in both sales and property management at the same time.
The most memorable moment
I’m not directly involved in sales or leasing, so for me it’s more about recruiting great franchisees to the Barry Plant Group. Can’t name the most memorable – it would be like naming your favourite child!
Best advice he’s received
Do what you say you’re going to do, when you say you’re going to do it.
Biggest challenge
I believe it is maintaining our value proposition to our clients (vendors and landlords) in the face of ever-increasing disruption and options. We know that we add value to the process for our clients, but I don’t believe that our clients always perceive that, nor do we always promote that as we could. We need to continue to demonstrate our worth to our clients, particularly through the use of data. We also need to raise our professional standards so that we are perceived as just that – a profession.
Change for good?
Raising of the bar for new entrants to the industry and continuing professional development for existing participants. The best operators in our industry operate at a very high level, however the poor operators tarnish the reputation of the entire industry. This should be addressed by both the industry and the regulators.
‘Elite’ agent means
Someone who fulfills their commitments to their clients and customers each and every time, backed up by experience and professionalism.
#WeAreRealEstate is a series of short interviews with 140 agents all over Australia, exploring the industry’s hopes, concerns, future challenges, and what it really means to be an Elite Agent.
