A Property Guru case study on Karen Riseley of Harcourts Beckenham in Christchurch
Backed by Property Guru's data and her in-depth knowledge of the local property market, Karen Riseley of Harcourts Beckenham has clients that return to her when it's time to sell again.
Karen Riseley's 20 years in the real estate business means she knows the local market well, but she says there is never room for complacency.
"The market is constantly changing and it's essential we keep up with what's happening. Three years ago it was a seller's market, now it's buyer-led, but there are more properties for them to choose from so they can afford to be more discerning.
"Many buyers keep a close eye on what's happening in the market and are very clued up about current property trends. It means that as a real estate professional you always need to be one step ahead and have the most up-to-date and accurate information at your fingertips," she says. This is where Property Guru comes in.
Karen says Property Guru has become an essential tool enabling fast and easy fact checking, and to help buyers in the decision-making process.
"Often buyers decide to purchase according to the comparisons they have made, so they need to be able to compare apples with apples. They want to look at the prices of properties of a similar size, in a similar neighbourhood, so they can work out how much they are willing to offer.
"Using Property Guru I can check these facts for them, such as the age of the property, the land and building area, and the construction materials used.
"I can also look up what the last sale price and date for the property was. This helps me advise the buyer on what they could expect to pay for it, given the changes in the market since the last time it sold. And, they can compare the property to similar sales in the area," she says.
Karen says Property Guru enables her to provide her clients with the complete picture.
Many of Karen's clients have bought properties through her before and they have referred their friends and family to her. Karen says this repeat business is recognition that she provides the type of service her clients want.
"Experience goes a long way, but you also have to stay current, and with Property Guru's data to back me up, I know I am offering clients accurate and up-to-date information, along with my depth of local knowledge," she says.