How a Veteran RES Stays Ahead of the Curve

Oct 2024 - 4 min read

Real estate salesperson (RES) Jimmy Lim Ek Kian has seen it all in his 17 years in the real estate agency industry.

Picking himself up from a failed business and with limited funds, he invested in a real estate course and built up his current career step-by-step. From the moment he closed his first transaction of a resale HDB flat on his own, Jimmy has witnessed everything from regulatory changes to digital transformation impacting the industry.

He said: “In 2007, most property transactions and marketing efforts were largely offline, relying on newspaper ads, flyers, and physical listings. Today, online property portals, social media marketing, and virtual tours are essential tools for real estate transactions.”

Jimmy noted that the journey to become a RES is more challenging today and the rules are more regulated now as compared to when he first started out, “which is good for the industry as a whole.”

“RESs are now more professional as they are better trained and well-informed. For example, we have to fulfil the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training to remain in the industry which allows us to upskill ourselves and keep up with the change of rules in the industry.”

At the same time, clients today are more informed and have higher expectations of RESs due to the easy availability of information online, he added. “They expect personalized service, quick responses, and detailed market insights.”

At the recent Singapore Estate Agents Association (SEAA) Awards 2024 held in August, the Senior Division Associate Director at OrangeTee & Tie was one of the winners of the Senior Achievers Award. Having won the same award last year, and the SEAA Salespersons Achievement Award (Silver) previously, Jimmy says being recognised for his efforts motivates him to continue striving for excellence as an RES.

He credits the value of perseverance, an eagerness-to-learn and commitment to his clients for his success.

One thing has remained a constant since he first started out.

Jimmy still finds great fulfilment in helping his clients to find their dream homes, and the relationships he has built with clients, colleagues, and industry professionals serve as another source of motivation.

How would you describe your journey as an RES over the years?

The industry has evolved significantly, and with it, I’ve had the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. There have been challenges, especially with market fluctuations and changes in regulations, but these have only made me more resilient and adaptable.

Building long-lasting relationships with clients, witnessing the impact of my work on their lives, and staying at the forefront of industry trends have been particularly rewarding aspects of my career.

We hear that you have handled close to 100 transactions over the last 3 years. How do you keep up the pace?

It can be challenging but fortunately, my wife Stephanie assists me with the paperwork, tenancy aftersales and arranging client appointments, so I have time to focus on my sales and leasing activities. I also make it a point to update my clients consistently to let them keep in touch with the property market, and at the same time, to let them know I am always around to assist them.

What’s your advice to veteran RESs, given that the industry is undergoing transformation by digitalisation and innovation such as Gen AI?

The industry is constantly evolving, and I’m motivated by the challenge of staying ahead. Every day presents a new opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow, both personally and professionally. Advancements in technology, such as AI, is beginning to reshape the industry. These technologies are influencing property management, valuation, and even how transactions are secured and recorded.

As RESs, we have to embrace digitalisation and keep up with continuous upgrading of our skills, while staying true to the core values of the profession. To stay updated on the industry, I read property news from various platforms, be it local or overseas. I also attend regularly sharing sessions and seminars conducted by industry experts.

In your opinion, what qualities should an ideal RES have?

An ideal RES has a positive mindset and the right attitude, and will always be transparent when dealing with clients and partners. As RESs, we must take ownership of our work. Let go of any past mentality that will prevent you from doing your best. Also, never stop learning!

Other important qualities will include integrity, honesty, strong communication skills, and good negotiation skills.

Finally, remember to pay careful attention to even the fine details, for example, during property transactions, and never over-promise what we can achieve for our clients.

What’s your secret of success?

In this line, we need to have a positive mindset and right attitude towards our work. We also need to be transparent to our clients. We have to keep ourselves updated of the property markets through continuous learning and sharing sessions with clients and colleagues.

Personally, I enjoy interacting with people, understanding their needs, and finding ways to provide value. I’m driven by setting goals and working towards achieving them!

This is the first of four winner profiles for the SEAA Awards 2024 that CEAnergy is featuring, highlighting the qualities and skills that are important for RESs to possess.

Information accurate as at 7 Oct 2024