Hi folks,

After my first musings in 4 years a couple of weeks ago I was pleasantly surprised to receive a couple of phone calls and texts welcoming my column back which I found very humbling as when I write these columns, I really have no idea if people actually read them, so a huge thank you from me to you for taking the time, always much appreciated from my end.

I talked last time about some of the changes we had seen property wise since 2019, this week I thought I could pass on another change which I have had lots of comments on in the last 12 months!

I can assure you that I did not “jump ship” from Tommys, instead both Upper Hutt and Lower Hutt offices were bought by Bayleys. We have largely the same team but since merging the two companies we now have a considerably larger team. I believe this to be huge advantage when selling property as more agents could lead to more offers leading to higher prices for our clients. Choosing me to sell your home means you get a large team of experienced agents as well as me.

Our one-year anniversary was November 1^st and I don’t know if it’s because I’m getting older but that year has gone lightning fast!! And I can answer another question I have heard plenty of times in the last 12 months, “Why did Bayleys buy the Hutt Valley Tommys offices? It’s actually a pretty simple answer. To grow.

What people might not be aware of is that we are a regulated industry under The Real Estate Authority and as such we must not only qualify to be a licenced salesperson, but we must undertake ongoing education.

The first part of that statement is the important part. To become a licenced salesperson, you must achieve NZ certificate in real estate Level 4. This could be up to 6 months of study, generally while working full time. Further there is a cost involved, the Open Polytechnic is approximately $1040, The Real Estate Authority charges total $930 (approx). So, no change out of $2000 and all for a career you do not get paid a salary for as we are commission only. Not for everyone but a rewarding career for those who are good at it.

It is quite difficult to take a leap to a commission-based income which means not many young people are coming through, often the best way to grow a business is through strategic purchase.

If you would like to know more about the market, or how our larger marketing reach at Bayleys can help you if are thinking about selling or simply wish to see how much your house is worth then call me on the number below or contact me via email steve@steveslicker.com alternately fill in your details here on my website.

Steve Slicker
Branch Manager
Bayleys Real Estate
DDI: (04) 212 6787
Mobile 0275 661 949
Office (04) 568 6044
Licensed under the REAA 2008

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