Business West December 2012

Page 9

NEWS important for real estate agents to leave their egos at the door when working with clients. “If you make it all about you, you’re in the wrong job,” he said. “You need to know why people are changing where they live – it’s about helping people through whatever stage of life they’re at. Compton Green’s Martin Rankin. Picture: KRISTIAN SCOTT

SELLER OF THE CENTURY BY CHARLENE MACAULAY LOOKING to sell your house, or buy a new one? Martin’s your man. Compton Green Senior Sales Executive Martin Rankin was a finalist in the recent Real Estate Institute of Victoria’s awards for the Residential Salesperson of the Year category. The highly sought-after award recognises committed salespeople who promote excellence in service, ethics and achieve

outstanding results. Although he didn’t receive the top gong on the night, Mr Rankin was humbled by the distinction. “I don’t like the limelight much. I’m not an auctioneer, I don’t like being out there in that way. I would never have nominated myself. It was sort of nice, though,” he said.

“The key to a great sales experience is communication; by offering continuous feedback I can lower clients stress levels and raise their excitement. “I see my profession as a long-term relationship building role with all clients, buyers and selling. Sales naturally flow on from that.” Former client Jill O’Callaghan deeply appreciated Mr Rankin’s customer service throughout the sales process.

Mr Rankin was working for an audio company when one of his clients suggested he get into real estate.

“I have sold a number of properties over the years but Martin Rankin is the best real estate agent I have met,” she said.

Mr Rankin heeded the advice and started off working for a private sales company.

“He thoroughly researches previously sold properties and knows the local market intimately.

He moved up the ranks to bigger real estate companies before settling at Yarraville’s Compton Green three years ago, where he sells on average between seven and 12 homes a month. Mr Rankin told Business West it was

“His valuations are realistic and he knows exactly where to pitch the sale. “(He was) honest, straightforward, and I always knew what was happening with the sale.” [BW]

business news west

What’s new in the business community? Calling all business operators! If you run a business in Hobsons Bay, then why not list your business for free on the Council’s new online business directory. Visit www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au to register your business today. If you want to stay across current issues and network with fellow business colleagues, join a local business group. There are four recognised traders’ associations in Hobsons Bay – Altona, Laverton, Newport and Williamstown, with many business networks also operating in the area. These groups represent like-minded business people whose focus is on marketing their area and addressing local issues that may affect your business and the region. Why not join one today?

Visit www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/business for more information.

Workshops Hobsons Bay City Council has an exciting line up of business workshops scheduled for 2013. Topics include online marketing, social media, retailing, business planning and customer service to name but a few. To register your interest for next year, simply send an email to the address below.

Newsletter/eUpdate And don’t forget the Council publishes a free business newsletter titled Business Works. You can register to receive this and our regular electronic eUpdate by simply sending an email to the address below. Subscribe today!

For more information please call Sally Curtis, Business and Tourism Officer on 9932 1000 or email business@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

BUSiNESS WEST

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