6th November 2019 / Prue Fletcher: Meet the Team: Michael Richardson

From his humble country upbringing to becoming the Director of the Fletchers Glen Iris office, the 'boy from the bush' now calls the big smoke home.

As one of the most reputable auctioneers in the state, he's been a Top 5 Finalist for the REIV Senior Auction Competition in Victoria not once, not twice, but three times now.

When he's not fine tuning his auctioneering skills, you'll most likely find Michael cheering on the Geelong Cats or trying to get another hole-in-one at the Box Hill Golf Course.

Why Real Estate?

I entered real estate straight away after I finished secondary school. It wasn't on my radar, I was chatting to a family friend and he suggested that it would suit me. It was a nice blend of being in an office and also being out meeting people (versus uni or a trade). I enjoy talking to people from all walks of life, so real estate was a very natural fit for me.

What drives you daily?

I have a different perspective on this now compared to 17 years ago. These days, I'm focused around making sure that I can contribute in a positive way to our business. I love seeing young agents coming through the ranks that I've helped along the way.

Having grown up in Mildura, how do you think your country upbringing has helped shape your successful career of selling homes in the city?

This industry seeks transparency. Growing up in the country and being involved in a small community really helps that. I feel now that my down-to-earth and straight to the point approach is transparent and well received here in Melbourne. Also, everybody knows everybody in a country town, so being honest and upfront from the very start builds trust!

You were recognised as the REIV Sales Person of the Year in 2016. What did this award mean to you?

This one was a real surprise for me. It was great to be recognised and in a way, it just proved to me that working hard, sticking to your values does pay off in the long term.

Who has been a mentor in your career? How have they influenced your business today?

My very first boss, Tense Venneri. He taught me so much from a young age and still does today. We speak once a week now. These days, it's more about the running of the office and challenges as they arise. I owe a lot to Tense, he gave me a start at 18 years of age and we have become very close friends since then.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the property industry?

Seek out the agents and leaders and spend as much time with them as possible. Remember to be patient. Real estate is a long-term industry. Always keep learning. Work hard early to set yourself up for a bright future in the industry. Always do the right thing, don't try and make a quick sale if it's not in your clients best interests.

How do you balance the demands of running a business and maintaining positive mental health?

Real estate is challenging, the hours are long, but they are flexible. It's about making sure that you plan your week in advance so that it's not just all work. Eating well and having an active lifestyle help with the demands. Talking to people about challenges is always important, there's so many people that have been in the same situation and can always offer you sound advice.

You've been a Top 5 Finalist in the 2016, 2017 and 2019 REIV Senior Auctioneer Competition. Where do you think the future of auctions are going with the influence of digital?

I love the street auctions, nothing beats it! Within the digital world, there are now ways to bid via apps and to not even be present at the auction. I hope this doesn't take over the traditional on site auctions where you can really see the emotion of both the vendors and buyers. It's much more exciting.

Working for a 100 year old family business, what does 'family' means to you?

Being from a large and close-knit family myself, I align really well with the Fletchers brand and family. The support, guidance and joy that family brings is not something that can be replaced. Being a part of Fletchers is really just like being part of my extended family. It's a great place to be. It feels like home.

What advice would you give clients over Summer who are considering putting their home on the market in the New Year?

Make sure to get your photos done now, before the Summer heat kicks in. External photos in November or early December while the gardens are looking great, just in case we get a heat wave in January 2020.

Finish off any little jobs over the Summer holidays. Buyers love a home that they can just move straight into. Always get styling consultations and quotes ahead of time.