The makings of a new beginning
I’ve always wanted to run my own business; put my own thoughts, direction and ethics into practice. So, after 10 successful years in real estate, it was an obvious next step, to step out on my own. A month ago, I began the journey to reshape our real estate business “One Agency Kane Downie” into a brand with an experienced and trusted team behind it. Our stunning new office and location was just the beginning of the transformation.
So much to do, so little time
There was a crazy lot of work which was done in a very short time. The challenge we had was to coordinate and set up a fully functioning workplace in a matter of weeks.
From securing a prominent location near Thirroul train station, to coordinating tradespeople to come and do the office fit-out from scratch, the relationships I have built with people over time came to the fore. Everyone from painters to electricians to cabinet makers, plumbers, glass fitters, carpenters and computer techs pulled together and worked around the clock to get us up and running.
A vision comes to life
If there’s one thing that has come out this transformation, is that I’m reminded of the value of family and friends.
The fit-out was a collaborative effort. Everyone had an idea and suggestion about what would and wouldn’t work. Ultimately, I wanted a space that reflected the direction I wanted the business to take. That’s why, taking centre stage, is a large communal desk, around which the entire team sits. It’s symbolic and practical. It’s about one team, coming together, sharing ideas, with no barriers, but with one common goal, servicing the most important people of all, our wonderful clients.
Preparing the office fit-out, I had a feeling of excitement about a new beginning. Almost like a new relationship. I couldn’t wait to explore and build on what we had started.
Family and friends all muck in
Most of the people close to me have played an integral role in this past month. I didn’t even have to ask, they just stepped up. Even my kids stepped up! That’s the thing about small business, it’s about community, it’s about friends and it’s about family. I can’t thank them enough.
There’s no “I” in team
Perhaps what I’m most proud of is the team around me. The old saying “there’s no ‘I’ in team” rings true every day. I’m surrounded by the most gracious, hard-working and genuine people, whom I’m proud to not only call colleagues but also friends. The team at “One Agency Kane Downie” is one of experience, trust and integrity. We all share the same belief system and an honest commitment to achieving the best results we can for all our clients. That’s what drives us every day. I am incredibly fortunate to have Andrew Hedley, Mark Redhill, Melanie Schott, Lorraine Crawford and Suzen Forte by my side. They would arguably be the most experienced real estate team in the country, accustomed to delivering outstanding results, always.
We open the doors to even more support
The Sunday before we opened, we were frantically doing final cleaning so we could get down to work on the Monday. Dozens of members of the community stopped in to wish us well. With that level of support before even opening the doors, I felt there would be little which we couldn’t accomplish. On that first Monday morning, we had our first client list their property with “One Agency Kane Downie”.
I’m thankful, grateful and humble for all the support that’s come my way. I love what I do, and helping people find their dream home in what is, the most beautiful part of the world; I know because I’ve lived here all my life.
Kane
