With 18 years of real estate experience to her name, Alisa Lawrence is a highly valued sales agent at respected local agency, Michael Potter Real Estate. Alisa focuses her energy on achieving excellent results through quality service, commitment, enthusiasm – plus a healthy dash of humour. Her solid negotiation skills have resulted in outstanding sale prices and suburb records.

What made you want to become a real estate agent?

Quite simply because I thought I had the right blend of a love of all things real estate – a love of people, and a desire to do something that would help others and be rewarding to me.

Tell us how you got into the industry.

A friend of mine had been approached by a prominent Canberra real estate agent to get into the industry and I was fortunate enough to be offered a job as well. I had been in the public service for about 15 years and let’s just say it had served its purpose. I was excited to move into a career that I knew I would love and that passion would drive me to do well.

What is the most rewarding part of working in real estate?

By far and away the most rewarding part is having helped someone attain their goal in what is likely their biggest financial decision at the time. A great outcome doesn’t happen by accident and to know that my skills and expertise, just by doing my ‘job’, has made a difference – that’s what it is all about.

Tell us about your job.

Well, if you think it is driving around in a nice car, standing at a door taking people’s names and numbers and the odd letterbox drop, you’d be mistaken. My job can involve all manner of project management, from tradie quotes, gardeners, cleaners and even styling advice. I see what needs doing and I see that it gets done. It involves psychology and hand holding, especially when it’s an emotionally charged sale like a deceased estate or divorce. It takes empathy, resilience, and an assurance you will do your best to achieve the best possible outcome. The end result is a culmination of many factors that make my job so interesting.

What do you love about your job?

I love doing something I know how to do. Sounds a bit simple maybe, but to be able to do something that you have spent years learning and building up your skills and knowledge in, it’s a really good feeling.

What has been your biggest highlight?

It is hard to name just one over the 18 years. Achieving record prices for my vendors is always a thrill, but when I look at the big picture, it’s the people I have met along the way. The ones who choose to come back to me when it’s time to sell again – it is the biggest compliment and always humbles me.

I have also made many friends from clients and love that these people are still in my life.

What are your goals moving forward?

To stay relevant, to stay real, stay in touch and stay grateful.

What advice would you give young people considering a career in real estate?

I would say that it is exciting but it is hard. Be prepared to listen, to learn and realise just what a great responsibility you have when advising people on their likely single biggest asset.

What does it take to be successful in the industry?

It takes a strong work ethic and a commitment to provide the highest level of client care and an ability to adapt to evolving market trends. When we have been going through one of the most challenging markets in many years, it takes an experienced agent to negotiate and navigate a successful outcome for their clients.

Ultimately, do what you say you are going to do, then do a bit more.

What do you enjoy about the real estate industry?

It is exciting, it is ever-changing, and it is always a topic of conversation. 

What are your core values?

I have a simple philosophy – work hard and achieve excellent results through quality service, attention to detail, commitment and honesty. Michael Potter Real Estate is a boutique agency that offers clients an interaction that is personal, open and honest. We provide superior counsel through leadership, knowledge, negotiation techniques and ultimately creating positive outcomes for all.

What do you enjoy about working in Canberra?

I love all of Canberra’s seasons – there is always beauty to be found wherever you look, whatever the weather. I also like the fact I can get from one side of town to the other in about 45 minutes, which really helps when you are selling a property in Banks and a property in Amaroo at the same time – and without getting a speeding ticket!

How can people get in touch?

My phone is pretty much glued to my hand so I can be contacted on 0404 066 119 or email [email protected]