The Boys Club.

All week I’ve been saying to my team that I’ve been wanting to write a newsletter about a particular topic but have felt a bit uneasy on how to approach it. Women…the latest addition to the endangered species list in real estate.

The reason I feel a bit uneasy is a sense of self consciousness (and dread of hypocrisy) about being a flag flying, bra burning, virtue signalling real estate agent. I mean could there be anything worse? Well yes actually…

The sad fact about the industry is that it’s over populated by unimpressive white middle age men…and yes, I’m aware.

Twice this week I’ve been sitting in living rooms and I’ve heard the comment that real estate seems like a bit of ‘a boys club.’ Sad but true. One local agency is currently barging into living rooms with a fancy white photo album filled with pics of short plump men claiming to be the market leaders. When one was challenged on this anomaly his response was ‘oh we do have women in our team, they work in support.’
Weird, apparently they have all the tricks…the best database, wealthy computer illiterate international buyers, Chinese speaking specialists…but just no female agents. Why?

Twice this week I have also heard of a particular agency cancelling appraisals because the husband wasn’t going to be at home for the meeting, apparently ‘it’s company policy.’ Really?

And yet…it’s 2023.

I’m biased. I was young when my father died, I was trained and mentored by two incredible female agents and I’m fortunate enough to have a team that comprises of some pretty special ladies…if you want something done give it to a busy person (and in my experience mums top that list).

So yeah, this weeks missive is more of an observation than me claiming to have the answers. I’m not saying choose us because we have a balanced roster but I am saying don’t do business with companies that are stuck in the 1950’s (and too stupid to even know it). Check them out, look at the management team…the clues are right in front of you.

In my view, there is an enormous opportunity for individuals and companies in real estate to capitalize on the current state of play.

Ok, flag furled. We have some amazing property coming up and look forward to seeing you out on the circuit.

Until next week
David Murphy