Key Points
- With an established career in banking, Espina tried her hand at real estate in the Philippines through the recommendation of a friend.
- Upon migrating in Australia in 2007, she realised that she had to obtain her license in real estate.
- Building a relationship with your community can do wonders in establishing leads for prospects in real estate.
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Pakikitungo sa kapwa at integridad: Susi sa matagumpay na karera sa real estate sa loob ng 16 taon
SBS Filipino
12/03/202410:33
The Australian real estate market is a major contributor to the economy.
For real estate agent company owner Bernadette Espina, it came as a surprise that she would go far as putting up her own firm in Australia.
First try at real estate happened in the Philippines
With a background in banking, Espina knew all the tricks and trades to deal with clients from all walks of life in the Philippines.
She was content with her stable job. But upon the suggestion from a friend, she was enticed to give real estate a try.
There’s no capital involved in selling properties in the Philippines. You just need hard work and “laway” as puhunan.Bernadette Espina, entrepreneur and licensed real estate agent
As a side hustle, Espina would sell house and lots to acquaintances and friends.
She found it quite rewarding, particularly because all it took was talking to clients and helping them land a property of their choice.
It’s something she would do for free, but was happily getting a considerable amount as a commission.
Real estate is serious business in Australia
However, real estate is a completely different ball game in Australia.
Upon migrating with her family in 2007, Espina thought that she can easily get into selling properties, even as a side hustle.
“In Australia, being a real estate agent means you have to have a license to prove that you are legit. You have to show it to the builders and developers,“ Espina says.
This prompted her to enrol in a real estate course and obtain her license.
Soon after, she gathered the documents for her real estate company. These include: Australian Business Number or ABN, business permit, among others. (Note: Licensing and business structure requirements vary for each state).
She credits hard work, honesty and humility in the successful run of her 15-year real estate business.
“It’s important that you’re there to help your clients with their needs. Sometimes there are issues with the banks.
“For instance, the clients will say they’re good with the mortgage, but then you’ll realise that they have defaults with their credit cards. Or sometimes towards the end, they’ll lose their jobs.
“This is why it’s imperative to know your clients."
Build a relationship with your community to establish leads
To generate leads for real estate prospecting, Espina advises to strengthen ties with the community. For her part, she plays an active role in community events and even on social media.
