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New blood for Roodepoort agency

New blood for Roodepoort agency

The Aida Roodepoort North estate agency, one of the flagship operations in the Aida National Franchises stable, has changed ownership.


The Aida Roodepoort North estate agency, one of the flagship operations in the Aida National Franchises stable, has changed ownership.

The new owners, Tarryn Williams and Charl Els, are taking over from real estate stalwart Verna Herbst, who has spent the past three decades in the industry.

“We are young and ambitious,” says Williams, “with a sound sales background. Although we are new to the property industry, we have years of sales experience and a deep conviction that property represents the most meaningful investment for the average consumer. People are our number one priority and we hope to build lifelong partnerships with our clients by securing them the best deals possible.

“We are also lucky enough that Verna has agreed to stay on as an agent and to act as our mentor for the first year, which will contribute to a smooth transition. Agent Jason Parker, the specialist agent for the prestigious Featherbrooke Estate, will also remain in our team,” she says.

While delighted with their new venture, the couple does not take the real estate industry lightly. “We believe the new qualification system for agents will ensure that only professionals who can offer high service levels will remain – it is definitely not a playground for agents who want to make a quick buck,” Williams says.

“The next three years are likely to be challenging, but we believe market conditions will improve. Interest rates are likely to stabilise at levels of between 8% and 10% while a review of banks’ lending criteria by 2010 may bring relief to borrowers – hopefully we will see the return of 100% bonds.”

The agency’s franchise area is extensive and a wide variety of property is available at prices ranging from around R550 000 to R15m. However Williams says most average family homes in the area can still be bought for less than R1,3m while exclusive properties in upmarket suburbs such as Constantia Kloof, Ruimsig, Featherbrooke Estate, Floracliff and others compare very favourably with the best that Gauteng can offer.