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Simone Fogarty, a property manager at One Agency Orange, shares with us her inspiration that led to her success in the real estate industry.
How did you start down this career path?
"I embarked on my real estate journey in 2008, transitioning from a career as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor in pursuit of a traditional 9 to 5 job. However, I quickly learned that real estate is anything but conventional hours. Despite the challenges, my passion for the industry has flourished. Each day brings new and diverse experiences in property management, making it an incredibly rewarding profession. I thrive on the constant problem-solving inherent in dealing with clients from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique perspectives and goals. Effective communication is key in ensuring the best outcomes for all parties involved, whether they're landlords or tenants."
What inspires you in your role/industry? Why?
"What drives me is the desire to continually enhance both myself and my property management business, striving to provide the utmost custom service to all clients, whether they are tenants or landlords. My aim is to challenge the prevailing perception of property managers, which unfortunately often receives negative portrayals in the media. I'm committed to showcasing the increasing number of property managers dedicated to improving the industry and elevating standards. Upholding legislation for both landlords and tenants is paramount in this mission, ensuring fair and transparent dealings for all parties involved."
What's your approach to customer service that separates you from the rest?
"Our approach to customer service sets us apart by continuously seeking ways to enhance and implement new strategies, thereby increasing the efficiency of day-to-day operations for both landlords and tenants. Whether it's through the adoption of innovative systems like Tapi or Flk for electronic document signing, or leveraging advancements in technology to streamline processes, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve. These improvements not only facilitate faster resolution of repair and maintenance issues for tenants but also ensure landlords are kept well-informed about their properties, maximizing their potential. Additionally, we prioritize staying up-to-date with legislation changes to ensure compliance and transparency in all our dealings."
What is the toughest challenge you've faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
"I see the housing crisis as the most pressing challenge in the property management industry today. It's clear that conventional approaches are not enough to tackle this issue, and we need to explore innovative solutions urgently. The longer we delay action, the more people will find themselves in dire situations. I advocate for the government to introduce incentives that encourage both current and new investors to participate in the market, addressing the fundamental issue of supply shortage. Additionally, there's a significant number of vacant public housing properties that could be refurbished and utilized to alleviate the shortage of affordable housing. Since the onset of Covid, rents have surged, yet simultaneously, interest rates have also increased substantially, escalating costs for landlords, particularly impacting smaller investors aiming to secure their retirement. It's crucial for policymakers to address these challenges comprehensively to ensure the stability and accessibility of housing for all."
What are some of your goals for the next 5 years?
"In the next five years, I aim to enhance education for both tenants and landlords, ensuring they understand their respective responsibilities in property leasing fully. Additionally, I'm committed to personally reshaping the perception of property managers. While there may be a few agents who disregard legislation and impose unfair demands on tenants, I strive to exemplify professionalism and integrity in my practice. By raising industry standards and advocating for fairness and quality, I hope to demonstrate that property managers like myself prioritize the well-being of both tenants and landlords."
Learn more here: https://oneagencyorange.
