John Wills: Enjoying 20 years in real estate

John Wills has recently joined Bayleys in Three Lamps Ponsonby.

Tell us a little of your history.
"I am coming up on 20 years in the real estate industry, having previously had a career in the NZ Police and I’ve also done some personal fitness training in a past life.

"In 2008 I founded the real estate start-up brand Custom Residential in Grey Lynn and helped run that business for 12 years. In 2008, I also wrote a book about real estate sales coaching, which has proven to be popular and timeless over the years."

Why the change of brand?
"Being busy at the local real estate coalface is what I love to do. Sales is where my heart is, and I love helping local families buy and sell, and move on to the next phase of their lives. Having twenty years’ experience in doing this, is a real asset for buyers and sellers to lean on during this process.

"Post Custom Residential days, I wanted to get alongside a brand that is proven to be very strong in the bracket of property that I specialise in. Bayleys certainly offers that strength, and proven track record. This is important for me and my clients."

What do you recommend vendors do to prepare their homes for sale?
"I recommend that sellers spend the time on the ‘one percenters’ when it comes time to prepare their home for sale. More and more buyers are looking for certainty and simplicity in their busy lives. Buyers tend to be attracted to homes that have that ‘move in and enjoy’ quality about them.

"The best bang-for-buck items when prepping for sale often come from fresh paint inside and out, tidying up hedges and gardens and focussing on maximising the street appeal of the home. Thinking about how a property presents to a buyer on a first impression basis is important, but just as important is thinking about the most serious buyers coming back through the home for a more detailed second or third private viewing."

Any testimonials you’d like to share?
"A lot has changed in the property market in the last year and I have been really impressed with the way you have adapted to this change. For us, this resulted in the sale being completed at a good price in a market which is increasingly seeing properties withdrawn. Thank you very much.”
Herne Bay Vendor.

John Wills: E: john.wills@bayleys.co.nz; T: 021 333 053.