Tracey Bulmer - Property Mgr - One Choice Realty Gold Coast QLD

Tracey Bulmer - Property Manager - One Choice Realty Gold Coast QLD

Tracey Bulmer started working in real estate in 1996 in Ballina, NSW, as a trainee property manager, and within two years of commencing in the industry, she had obtained her full Real Estate Agents license. While originally thinking that she would use property management as a springboard into sales, she loved her role so much that she stayed in property management and is now the owner of One Choice Realty, a specialist property management business.

What are the biggest challenges that you face in Property Management today? 

I guess taking on the stresses of the owner and the tenants. Particularly, in the current economic climate, tenants are finding it harder to pay the rent, owners are facing more pressure with mortgage repayment and the cost of maintaining their properties; and we need to be able to work with both parties to ensure that there is a fair outcome for everyone. Property managers are constantly the person in the middle mediating between the two parties. I guess the other major challenge a number of property managers’ face is time management. You really need to be organised in this job to do it right.

Why do you love property management?

I love property management because you are always meeting new people and you are helping them find a home to live in. Usually their choice is governed by price and lifestyle, so I see our role as assisting people with finding the lifestyle they want. It is rewarding when you get to tell clients that their application for tenancy has been accepted, and then you get to go and visit them on inspections, and see how they have set up their home.

How is your agency unique?

Our office only does property management and we love what we do. I honestly believe that you need to be in a job you love, to give it its best. When you are dealing with people on such a personal level they can tell whether you care and whether you don’t. Moving home is such a huge stress on its own, so we try to make the process as easy as possible for our clients and make them feel special. We concentrate on removing the stigma around “being a renter”. For our investors, we offer a personal management service, we can follow specific instructions to suit their needs – they are not just another number and do not have to fit into the mould of services offered. 

What was the most memorable (or unusual) property you have ever managed? 

I could write a book and I am sure no one would believe me! In property management, you see it all. I think tenants are more memorable than the properties. I have carried out routine inspections where you have accidently sprung people in bed where they were supposedly room mates or couples who aren’t in bed with their other half! I’ve had tenants tell me damaged walls in the living room (the size of a fist) were caused by the plumber who was there fixing the leaking toilet at the other end of the house the week earlier. We are constantly amused at the things we hear and see.

What is the best advice you have been given?

“Treat others how you would like to be treated” and “a good Property Manager has to have a good sense of humour!”

What are your most important values?

I think being honest with your clients, taking pride in your work, and being passionate about what you do are important values. Enthusiasm, integrity, and hard work are also important ideals to possess.

Communication is also key. This seems to be the main area that falls down in this industry. In many circumstances you also need to be compassionate, respectful and always be honest. If you are able to manage these keys elements, it makes it easier to balance the relationships between all parties and maintain loyalty with your clients.

Do you have a mentor, or someone that inspires you?

My parents have always been in business and supported me, so I draw inspiration from them. I definitely find the likes of Donald Trump and Anthony Robbins – very inspiring – but I have also worked for and along side some great business people who have given me that motivation to do better and improve on everything I do each day.

How do you relax outside of Real Estate? 

With my business only 2 years old, it has been my main focus. Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends. I am blessed to have some really special people in my life that give me that escape from work and the balance I need. I love travelling, camping, running and getting outdoors. Reading the Sunday newspaper in something I don’t compromise on each week.

If you could have any three people at your dinner party, who would it be and why?

Anthony Robbins – I recently attended one of his business courses and the man is amazing. He embraces life like no other person and has such a powerful presence and influence. I find him so captivating and motivating. Ray Martin – He seems like such a nice man and so down to earth! He has so many good stories from his time abroad along with people he has met. Tim Minchin – I really admire his work, he is a musical genius.

What are your predictions for the Real Estate Industry for the next year?

I think generally the rental market on the Gold Coast will stay steady, I think there will be more people choosing to rent rather than buy and rents will remain consistent.

What advice would you give someone starting out in Property Management?

“Be prepared to grow a thick skin. Ninety-nine per cent of the time – it is not personal.  Whilst the job is challenging, it is also very rewarding and time management will be your greatest asset.”