STRAIGHT TALK: 10 YEARS WITH A BULLET FOR EASTSIDE PROPERTY CENTRE

THIS year marks a decade of success for Eastside Property Centre in Brisbane's fast growing south-eastern suburbs.

The Belmont-based real estate agency has secured its place in the city's residential property market, selling more than two-thirds of the homes across Belmont and Tingalpa alone.

Brisbane Business News spoke to Eastside Property Centre co-founder Shane West about the highs and lows of the past decade.

What are three leadership qualities you identify with and how have they contributed to your success?

Approachable, empathetic and lead by example. These qualities have resulted in us finding and retaining loyal clients and staff.  Our leadership style creates an exceptional culture within the office which can definitely be felt in the market. We are well known for having a strong 'family' culture.

Over the last 10 years, what are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in the real estate industry, and how did you overcome them?

Market fluctuations and managing cash flow through market peaks and troughs.  Changes in technology regarding all things real estate has also been a challenge to overcome. Judy and I both started our careers as agents in 1998 the industry was a very different place. The ability to 'keep up with the times' is a testament to our office, clients and staff.

What do you consider is the highlight of your career?

The shift from individual sales agents in a large franchise group to becoming the directors of our own independent business. Growing a rent roll and sales team for our future security.  Remaining successful and relevant over the past 10 years in a market that is forever changing and growing in terms of agents in the market.

What is on the table for the next 10 years?

Grow our sales team, rent roll and opening another office, as well as secure the largest market share in our core sales area so we can remain the agent of choice.

What differentiates Eastside Property Centre from other real estate agencies in Brisbane?

With excellent local product knowledge, maturity and life experiences we can provide an understanding sales experience for all people regardless of their personal circumstances.  A large proportion of home sales are forced upon people. We offer understanding and support that not all real estate agencies in Brisbane would be able to.  We always act in the client's best interest. We have sold over two-thirds of our local market we know our market like the back of our hand!

What is the best thing about working in the Brisbane real estate market?

There is a great deal of diversity in property types within a small kilometre radius.  You can be selling waterfront homes, prestige acreage properties, inner-city units, family homes and homes for first-home buyers within 10 minutes of each other.  Brisbane's market is still relatively affordable compared to the other capital cities in Australia. We also work closely with overseas and interstate investors given the market affordability.

What are some professional values you hold close to your heart?

We aim to treat clients as we expect to be treated.  Straightforward honest communication is something we hold close to our heart.  We find our clients quickly feel comfortable in trusting us to work with them.  We pride ourselves on achieving the best result, both financially and emotionally, for our clients.

To celebrate the 10-year anniversary, Eastside Property Centre will give away a $1000 travel voucher to every home owner who lists their house for sale with Eastside during the months of September to November 2015.

Those who list their property for rent with Eastside or refer the agency during September to October will go into the draw to win a $500 Flight Centre travel voucher.