Christine Shaw is not a standard real estate agent, something she says she is immensely proud of, especially now that she has been announced as a Top Ten Agent.
“The two repeated compliments I receive are that I am different, and I don’t sound like any other agent,” she says.
“Some might say I am a square peg in a round hole. I love those compliments, and if you’ve met me at an open house and thought this, your first impression is right – that’s me!
“What you see is what you get – no prepared scripts or pressure tactics. I will tell you to not sell if I think it is the right decision, and give you renovation ideas instead.”
Christine says normally, the agents who feature on the Top Ten list have a very high volume of sales, but for her, volume is not necessarily her measure of success. “I got into the ACT Top Ten this year with 30 sales, because I ask 100 per cent of my owners for a testimonial – and they give me five stars each time”, she says.
“Every one of my clients gets an email asking for a testimonial. Some agents only send that email to those who like them at the end of the process.”
Her distinctive approach to real estate does not stop there. Christine is dedicated to a social-impact model that gives back to the Canberra community.
Christine says her business ethos is “real estate with a purpose” and that she is particularly committed to improving the availability of affordable housing and helping those facing homelessness.
In 2012, Christine established the Investors Can Help Project, which in collaboration with the Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services, was able to help “Canberra’s newest community members find housing”.
Then, in 2017, Christine became a member of the ACT Government’s Consultative Group on Affordable Housing and Homelessness, which she says allowed her to merge her background in social policy with her real estate career.
“The opportunity to be on the Deputy Chief Minister’s Consultative Group for Affordable Housing and Homelessness, and part of the Housing Summit in October 2017, allows me to be involved in housing policy,” she says.
“I am one of the highest female fundraisers for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout over the last four years, and walk the talk that those fortunate to be in the “haves” should give back.
“I not only fundraise, but I have partnered with Hands Across Canberra and give at least 10 per cent of what I earn to help homelessness initiatives.
“I’m the only agent who has a named fund with Hands Across Canberra.
“Selling your home or investment property is an important journey, and by having me as your agent, you are having a positive social impact on the broader community.”
Christine says she always goes the extra mile for her clients.
“I am honest and frank in my communication with you – no tricks, no games, no predatory behaviour – and it shows in the results,” she says.
“I get brilliant results and have excellent negotiation skills, resulting in a repeat and referral business of over 70 per cent.”
Christine says selling a home is not just a one-dimensional step in any person’s life, and she’s proud to be a “unique” agent who thinks and understands the broader issues, while still delivering fantastic results with her clients.
Christine Shaw, call 0405 135 009, email [email protected]