Vanessa Grant, sales partner with Toop&Toop, says "service is my mantra".
After a long career in senior management with a multinational company, Vanessa Grant was looking for a change. After a period of self-reflection, during which she identified customer service, meeting people, and 'sealing the deal' as her key drivers, Grant made the change to a career in real estate sales.
She joined Toop&Toop in April this year.
How did you first get into real estate?
After 12 years working for a multinational in a senior management role, I felt it was time for a change, so I really had to take a long hard look at myself and ask the questions… What do I like? What makes me happy? What am I good at? Just to name a few.
I wanted to stay in sales but needed to combine the service side, as service is my mantra. For me, residential real estate was a polarising choice, as I love nothing more than meeting people, giving really good customer service and of course sealing the deal.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
That everyday, every minute is different, the people I meet, the homes I sell, and that nothing is ever the same.
Can you tell us a little about the market you work in?
I predominately work in Adelaide’s inner east. These suburbs are rich in history and play an integral part of the charm associated with living there. There is an abundance of circa 1880 - 1905 villas and cottages, and people love to restore the front of these homes and add amazing modern extensions to the rear.
Being only 3km from the CBD, with arguably one of Adelaide’s best main streets, The Parade in Norwood, and the surrounding suburbs are in high demand! Having said that, Adelaide is known as the 20-minute city, so I do find myself venturing into other regions, but that is exciting too!
What advice would you give to someone who is starting out in real estate?
Time, it takes time to build your profile and portfolio, so be patient. Work hard but be kind to yourself.
Is real estate a good profession for women?
Regardless of gender, I think it’s a great profession for anyone looking for a lifestyle career because your career becomes your lifestyle!
What would you like to see change in the real estate industry?
Tighter regulations on entry into the field, with emphasis on higher level of training. Too often people believe think it’s an easy job and easy to get into, with easy money however this is not the case.
Where do you live now, and where would you live if you could live anywhere in the world?
I live in Norwood and I’m so lucky to live in a suburb that has a strong sense of community and heritage – I love it!
But if I could choose to live anywhere in the world, I would choose to live in France in the Champagne region in a Chateau with beautiful views of the vineyard, with of course an endless supply of Champagne – but I would also need a holiday house in Biarritz!
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