Gail Miller has joined Sherrie Storor at McGrath New Farm, and says the lessons she learned as an Olympic athlete are integral to her success in real estate.
Gail Miller won a gold medal at the Sydney 2000 Olympics for water polo. She told SCHWARTZWILLIAMS that being a professional athlete requires taking a long-term view, resilience, and persistence, much like a successful career in real estate.
Miller answered SCHWARTZWILLIAMS' questions about what drew her to join Sherrie Storor's McGrath New Farm team, and about her career in real estate up to this point.
How did you decide on a career in real estate?
I began my working career approximately 16 years ago as a property analyst after completing my property economics degree. After working in the acquisitions department of a property investment firm it was a very natural and easy transition into sales. I was drawn to the sales side of the property world for a number of reasons, with the main ones being the people you meet and the exuberant feeling of when you close a deal!
How has your experience as an elite athlete reflected on your career in real estate?
My experience as an elite athlete has been integral to my success in real estate for a number of reasons. I understand how long it takes to achieve your goals, and that sometimes there are knock backs along the way, and that it is in these moments and how we deal with them that truly defines you and your desire to succeed.
You’ve worked in a number of fields in real estate - as an analyst, in acquisitions, selling developments, and now in residential sales. What advice would you give to someone starting out on a career in real estate?
A career in real estate needs to be approached as a business rather than a sales role/job. You need a business plan with clearly defined benchmarks, and you need to be aware that the first couple of years certainly feel like a lot of hard work before you start to see the results. I would definitely recommend aligning yourself with a coach/mentor.
Is real estate a good career for women?
I think real estate can be a good career for women. It can be tricky balancing appointments, however there is the opportunity to develop your business to a level whereby you can have flexibility to allow you to be there for your family.
How is the prestige market in Brisbane's New Farm?
The last nine months have seen the prestige market within Brisbane and in particular New Farm perform very strongly.
What drew you to Sherrie Storor’s McGrath team?
Sherrie and I have known each other for a number of years and there has always been a natural synergy between us. I was obviously pretty excited at the opportunity to work with one of Brisbane's top performing agents and to develop and be part of a high performance team that delivers exceptional results for our clients.
You’ve had such a varied career. Is there one thing that stands out as your number one achievement?
I feel like I am still working towards my number one achievement!
Read more 'get to know' profiles about agents:
Read more about Brisbane real estate: