Is it possible for an estate agent to thrive despite lockdown conditions? Rubin Adams performs!

While it is true that some estate agencies/agents have hit rock bottom as a result of lockdown and may not survive, there are many who have performed at exceptional levels despite the difficulties of the current situation. This is very definitely the case at Alexander Swart Property, an agency particularly strong in Northern Suburbs of Cape Town, says Director, Rowan Alexander. He would like the Alexander Swart public to know about agent Rubin Adams who has continued to notch up successes as if there was no lockdown at all. Since the start of the lockdown Rubin has sold 15 homes and, remarkably, all except one were sold at the full asking price. Right now Rubin has another 12 sales in the pipeline. This, says Alexander, is consistent with Rubin's pre-lockdown record.

Rubin has been with Alexander Swart for five years. He was previously in the hospitality sector which, like the property market, called for long hours. At Alexander Swart he was taught to become an area specialist in Kraaifontein; to make himself a leading agent in one specific district and price bracket. He has also achieved excellent sales in Brackenfell and some in Milnerton and Kuils River.

"What Rubin has shown, is that the home market below R1 million is alive and thriving, that is where the majority of his sales took place. However, he also had good sales in the R1 to R1,5m bracket and even up to R2,4 million. His performance has been truly praiseworthy."

The lower interest rates (following the most recent decision by the Monetary Policy Committee, takes the prime rate down to 7% and many bond applicants are getting 1% below this) has helped "considerably" to open up the residential property market to a wider client base.

Equally important in Rubin's success is the fact that Alexander Swart training taught him to attend to the basics of this business, especially the all-important task of canvassing for clients. Rubin says he has benefitted from the incredible assistance of his wife Sanet, who has a genuine love for people and a desire to help them, who took on the onerous task of telephoning several hundreds of potential clients each month.

Rubin has also taken to heart the number one lesson that the leaders of Alexander Swart try to instil : take a long term view, try to see beyond earning this month's salary and become known for a caring attitude towards clients. As a result there are very few agents in the Greater Cape Town area who have more repeat business than Rubin; some 30% of his clients have dealt with him previously and an even higher percentage come to him as a result of referrals from satisfied clients. "This kind of trust relationship with clients can only be built if the agent does not put his own interests first and is available 24\7.  Rubin is one of those dedicated agents prepared to take calls and discuss matters at almost any time, evenings and weekends included.  Believe me, this is much appreciated by  clients and a reluctance to work  like this is one of the main reasons why some agents never take off," says Alexander.

Asked how he copes with lockdown rules in the residential property sales business, Rubin said it is not that difficult to be wholly law abiding and to protect clients, whether they be buyers or sellers. Among the protocols are that all premises are to be inspected and sanitized, all involved must wear masks, only one couple may view a home a time and the seller and  his family have to distance from visitors.

"There could not be a better time to buy a home than right now. The good news is that the low interest rates will last a good long time."

For further information, contact Rowan Alexander on 082 581 3116 or by email : rowan@asproperty.co.za Rubin Adams can be contacted on 063 008 6752