Chené Wilson: A Rising Superstar In Commercial Property

Chené is celebrating her first year in the commercial property industry with a whopping 25 deals signed, sealed and tenanted. Proving already to be a really serious force amongst her peers, the sky's the limit for this rising superstar at Vermaak Properties.

1. Chené considering you launched your CRE career during a global pandemic, how have you experienced the industry thus far?

Yes, what a time to join this industry! Well, as an individual moving through your day you definitely still feel the effects of the pandemic, but being in the business industry is a completely different experience because there's opportunity even in these more challenging times, and there's nothing like talking to a CEO or CFO to open your eyes to the potential for new areas to pinpoint that this pandemic has brought.

It's been especially interesting to see people's perspectives on remote working and returning to the office. I concluded 25 deals during 2021, with the end of March being my one year anniversary at Vermaak Properties, so I am very pleased with my progress. I came into the industry with no prior knowledge of property, the terminology used, or even how to make a phone call to a new prospective client. I've achieved a lot in my first year, and could only have done it with the training and mentorship I've received at Vermaak Properties.

2. It's definitely a unique atmosphere at Vermaak Properties - just the right balance of healthy competition with a helping hand when you ask for advice, not to mention the entertaining banter between you all! A true work-family, which has no doubt been a great start for you as a fledgling broker. Being part of the younger generations who are bringing a fresh perspective to the methods commercial brokers have traditionally applied, what positive impacts do you think these generations have on the industry, and what have you learned from other generations?

The younger generation of commercial property professionals are technically highly confident and competent, having been connected and online most of our lives. The PropTech industry, which has been ignited by eager young professionals with big ideas of upgrading old systems, as well as property funds who recognize the space for traditional property broking methods to evolve technically and keep up with changing times. The PropTech industry has been vitally important to the survival of the property industry, especially so in Cape Town and during the many national and international lockdowns we've faced together. I look forward to seeing how this sub sector develops to provide professionals with the online tools we need to keep motivated to develop and maintain long standing, solid relationships with clients. From as simple as facilitating virtual viewings or tours of spaces to prospective clients, to enhanced marketing methods, the PropTech industry is really gearing up for this year to be a big one!

From the other generations I've learned to keep my perseverance intact - this is one of the most important aspects of this career because losing momentum can be the difference in you finalising or missing out on a significant lead or deal. I've learned an extensive set of CRE terminology from the other generations in my team, and some tricks of the trade for dealing with some difficult negotiation tactics.

3. Further to that, have you experienced any challenges out in the field, being part of the younger generation of brokers?

Yes, I did feel as if I wasn't being taken seriously because of my age, and being underestimated for it. I did also experience some challenges within property leasing processes, but only in the beginning where I felt overwhelmed by terminology and negotiations, and being worried I was going to be asked a question I couldn't answer. After a year, I'm still learning the industry language to a certain extent, but I feel so much more confident now in answering tenant or landlord questions and speaking in a well-versed property language which fosters trust with all my clients, and lets them know that I am a professional who can guide them towards the right decision.

4. Who has been your most significant mentor and please also elaborate on their guidance provided and how it has helped you succeed?

I've been fortunate to have started my property career at Vermaak Properties because there's been more than one mentor available to me. We're all in it together at Vermaak, and the team is so supportive - if someone's busy, there is always another willing colleague ready to help me. This has helped me succeed because there's no time to waste when you get a new lead in; being quick to respond sometimes means the difference in keeping or losing the client.

I've had a very focused mentorship from Annie Swan who has been deeply significant to my development, because of her specialised knowledge and negotiation skills, some of which she's kindly taught me, and I am gunning to learn more!

Of course Peter the CEO of Vermaak is always an incredible backbone and a very supportive cheerleader, giving me all the confidence by focusing on my strengths and wins with a big smile on his face.

I also need to mention Sharon and Cindy who have both in their unique ways been hugely supportive to me, answering my never-ending questions, providing me with constructive feedback that I can use to make improvements and be the best broker I can be.

5. With the financial year of 2021 concluded and boasting over twenty deals signed in your fledgling year as a property broker, not to mention during a globally tough year financially, you've most certainly carved out the path to be the best. In your first year of commercial property broking, what has been the most challenging part, the easiest part, and the best part of it all?

My first few months were challenging across the board, but in specific it has definitely been learning the array of terminology and property vocabulary to feel equipped during viewings and lease or sale negotiations. It can sometimes boil down to the kind of day each client is having, or the mood they're in - this is a people-business at the end of the day. The easiest part is now making phone calls for me, which has been a significant win as I was so nervous in the beginning even to pick up the phone, but now I speak and project my voice with confidence because I feel equipped with everything I need to guide the client and give them the best advice for their requirements. Of course coming to the office again and seeing my team is always a great time and the best part is sharing our successes together. Peter has organised a Broker of the Month award, a Broker of the Year award, and other incentives to motivate the guys all throughout the year.

Nothing like a weekend away to motivate you to keep pushing for that next big deal!

If you're interested in driving your own career in commercial property and would like to know more about what it's really like to be a commercial property broker, don't hesitate to get in touch with the team at Vermaak Properties for some sound advice and a glimpse into the life of a property broker.