How does your usual day look?
I start my day by addressing all emails. I then go through the stocklist, which is written up on a large whiteboard. We touch base with all new enquiries first and make sure we are always speaking with active ones, and owners, as required.
I work in a team with Greg Watson, one of the senior agents. We meet a few times a week to run through our activity plan, which keeps us both on track, up to date and ensures productivity.
I spend a lot of time on our database. This is very important to us and works extremely well, looking after all of our vital information and driving leads for new stock.
How did you start your career in commercial real estate?
I started in the real estate industry by securing a part time job after school, where I was emptying bins, filing and sorting agents' desks. From there I progressed to reception, property management assistant, marketing, office administration, sales associate, lead generation etc. I have spent time in almost every role in real estate, searching for my niche and absorbing as many skills and knowledge as possible.
I spent the first 15 years working in residential - the first company for two years, and the second for seven years before making the move to Ray White. At Ray White, I was fortunate enough to be introduced into commercial, which almost straight away I really enjoyed.
What do you enjoy most about being an agent at Ray White Commercial? What makes Ray White Commercial different?
I really enjoy the people in our team, the relationships we have with the corporate team, the flexibility to be an individual, the resources and training; and the passion the brand has for consistent development. It's motivating and refreshing.
What are your go-to property marketing methods that you present to your clients?
Greg and I truly believe in the power of our database, which is supported by professional images, drone photography, strong signage and internet exposure.
Tell me about a unique success story?
We have recently been referred to an interstate investor from the Ray White Commercial Sunshine Coast office. The client wasn't happy with the lack of regular communication he was receiving from another local office. After a few telephone discussions and emails, we were able to transfer the property to our management team and list it for lease. We inspected the property and sent the owner photos immediately. Within a few days, we had a handyman go out to improve the presentation, roller door serviced, fresh signage designed and installed, and professional photos were taken. The owner provided us with his outgoing invoices where we identified some concerns. We were in contact with the Body Corporate to gather information, brought these to his attention and provided solutions of which he has been able to address. It's the relationships we create with our clients that make Greg and I different and successful in our market. We are genuinely helpful and proactive.
Do you auction?
Not enough…. Greg and I are running an auction campaign at the moment but we don't do many auctions. We predominantly work in Palm Beach/Currumbin on the Southern Gold Coast, which is in the middle of a ‘mini’ surge. Stock is tight, properties go quick and most transactions are off market.
Our network of offices provides a monthly in-room auction event so we are starting to ramp that up again now.
What’s the one thing you know now, that you wish you knew when you first started out?
Convert to commercial earlier!
Commercial is about working out a solution for all parties and in return people enjoy the experience. Enjoy what you do, stay calm and keep going.
Always prospect and look after your data.
What is your outlook for the Gold Coast commercial market over the next 12 months?
We are finding our particular market is busy at present and we don't see this slowing down any time soon. We are noticing a change in premises use in some areas, creating a bit of a buzz. We see the commercial market that we work in is continuing to grow with some exciting opportunities ahead.
Contact
Email: tara.imlach@raywhite.com
Phone number: 0452 418 343
