This week our feature agent Derek Stone from Ray White Green Valley talks about the importance of client testimonials, how he stays on top of his workload and even shares where to find a good cup of coffee in Green Valley.
What areas do you service and what can we expect to see in your market in the next 12 months?
We are currently the number one office and local agents for Green Valley and have been for over 11 years. We service all the surrounding suburbs and upcoming estates in the expanding South West corridor. Over the next 12 months we can expect to see the market adjusting and stabilising/slowing down somewhat in Sydney. Experienced agents will have to work smarter and harder to cater to these changing market conditions.
We noticed you have a lot of client testimonials on raywhite.com. Why is this type of feedback important to you and your business?
Being in the industry for 17 years, repeat business is very important to me, as is feedback from all of our clients. Client feedback is so valuable to our business because it gives a great indication of the service potential vendors and buyers can expect from me as an agent and our award winning office. I’m all about client satisfaction and I believe client testimonials showcase this best. I work towards creating great rapport with the locals as well, as these relationships are really important as they shore up future business.
Do you have any tips on how and when to go about requesting client testimonials, feedback and referrals?
To be honest I don’t request client testimonials. I prefer it that way. It’s so much more satisfying, receiving a card or email from a client who acknowledges your hard work and dedication in achieving the best outcome possible for both the buyer and seller. When you receive unprompted positive feedback it always gives you a boost and makes the work you do all the more satisfying. So always working hard to achieve the best possible outcome for each and every client, and being honest and up front are the best ways to generate client testimonials.
How do you stay on top of your appointments and follow up schedule?
I would have to say there are three key ways that I stay on top of my appointments and follow ups. As an agent you have to be extremely organised, carefully prioritise your day-to-day workload and be as flexible as possible to be accommodating to clients. Whether it’s an after hours private inspection, a 20 minute phone conversation on a Sunday evening or an early morning meeting over coffee, you need to go that extra mile to satisfy and delight your clients to inspire testimonials and referrals.
What about Homely.com.au caught your attention?
Homely.com.au has definitely grabbed my attention as well as that of the team at Ray White Green Valley. I think Homely is a very inviting name and myself and my colleagues like the easy to navigate search engine and listing pages. We’re also glad to see that it’s providing fresh competition for the two big players in online real estate advertising.
Do you have a favourite spot to recommend for a morning coffee in Green Valley?
My favourite spot to stop off in Green Valley for a morning cup of coffee would have to be Gloria Jeans at the Green Valley Plaza. You can’t go wrong there!
Take a look at Derek’s current listing on Homely here.
Agent bio:
Derek Stone is a passionate and straight shooting, skilled agent, having 17 years of local sales experience in the industry. Born and bred in South West Sydney, Derek has been consistently ranked in the top performing salespeople in the industry.
Combining a strong work ethic with up to date local market knowledge Derek relies on being a people person, ensuring the entire selling process of buying and selling is as stress free as possible. With a direct combination of youth, extensive local experience and dedication, Derek is the obvious choice for buyers and sellers alike in the greater Liverpool/Green Valley area.
