This International Women’s Day is about breaking the bias. In an industry where the gaps, albeit conscious or unconscious remain prevalent, we’re eager to highlight the work of the business owners in our network. Empowering meaningful conversations allows us to critically think about how this bias impacts our decision making daily and facilitate tangible change at every level of the business. Across the country, we are continually impressed by the work of our women. Winning awards, breaking records, and setting a precedent for the rest of our network.

Gwen Levesque – Raine & Horne Gawler, SA

What would you like to see continue to change for women in property?

Over the past decade it has been great to see the industry shift from a predominately male based group to a more balanced industry. We have come leaps and bounds during this time and are even being recognized at a national level for our services as women in the field.

My team here consists of 8 employees and of that, 7 of us are women. I feel that this only solidifies the growth we have seen. Because I am amongst a team of women, we don’t really see that we have limitations based on our gender that really needs changing. One thing that we are strong on though is safety – we would love to see more procedures/measures being taken to ensure the safety of our staff at properties.

Sandy Sumsion – Raine & Horne Roxby Downs, SA

What are you most proud of doing?

I am proud of working with our team of young mums who are balancing their work/home life and developing their careers in Property Management. 

I am in awe of their positive contributions within our business and our community, as well as nurturing their families. I’m so proud of our team!

Jennifer Drabic – Raine & Horne Morphett Vale, SA

What does breaking the bias mean to you?

It is widely publicised that in many high-profile occupations, women are not treated equally to men in terms of opportunity and pay structure. It’s high time this is addressed and any ‘bias’ is broken, once and for all.

Having worked in the Real Estate industry since the early 90’s my experience is quite different. I have always felt that men and women are treated equally, have the same opportunities to succeed, earn the same incomes. Success in this industry does not have to do with gender but rather your skill set, experience, and relationships with people. I am very grateful every day to work in an industry that hasn’t faced the same biases that are sadly still apparent in other industries. 

Nina Sokolov – Raine & Horne Avalon | Palm Beach, NSW

What would you like to see continue to change for women in property?

I would like to see women have more self-confidence to hold this very privileged professional career. Given the chance, we are great at what we do especially those who are passionate about helping others, we do hold the “key” which enable someone to move forward to the next chapter of their lives.  To be proud of what they have accomplished not only as an agent but most importantly their efforts have "made a difference” in someone’s life which is very rewarding.

Jacqui Crapp – Raine & Horne Berry, NSW

Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?

I started my career working in the Bank which at management level was a very man dominated world. They didn’t appreciate a woman at their meetings and a young woman, who was a mother of 4 – that was so unheard of. Business clients back in the day would also always ask to speak to the Manager expecting a male. So, I would hire male PA’s and assistants. When I walked into the meeting, and they asked for a coffee – I would send my male assistant to make it for them.

Breaking barriers one latte at a time.

Elizabeth Johnson – Raine & Horne Sans Souci, NSW

What is the action or decision you're most proud of?

I am most proud of taking a chance in what can be perceived as a male dominated industry, by opening my own real estate business. The best decision I ever made, was to have confidence in myself to do a great job as a business owner.

Jane Schumann – Raine & Horne Potts Point, NSW

How can we encourage more women to pursue business ownership or senior leadership roles in their career?

We can encourage more women by certainly setting the example ourselves. Encouraging leadership training and taking the fear out of asking for more.

Support is paramount and therefore essential to being available to mentor and guide. I think women should stop thinking how hard it is, change their mindset and get on with it. The hard goals in business are hard for both men and women. Take away gender and look at how hard someone is prepared to work for what they want.

Chloe Collins – Raine & Horne Innisfail, QLD

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?

Don't put yourself down when others are only too willing to do it for you. You are always your hardest critic, but you will always be your strongest advocate. Look for that strength and you will never fail.

I hope that makes sense. My mother taught me this when I was young and its always something in my head when I’m feeling a little negative and what pulls me through the hard times.

Margaret Vote – Raine & Horne Wynnum | Manly, QLD

How has being a woman in real estate changed over the years?

More women are in prominent business roles now, however real estate hasn’t really changed except for technology advancing so quickly. Being an agent has always been the same for me as my role is always ‘to keep all parties safe in the transaction.’

Christine Clarke – Raine & Horne Coffs Harbour, NSW

Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?

For the most part, I think being a female in this profession has been advantageous.

However, when I first became an agent in 1988, there were very few women in real estate, and it took quite a while, for men particularly, to accept a female in what was seen as a male occupation. Over time, clients came to appreciate that a female brought a different and beneficial perspective and skill set to the industry.

Bonnie Worth – Raine & Horne Eatons Hill | Albany Creek, QLD

How can we encourage more women to pursue business ownership or senior leadership roles in their career?

I think it is important to surround yourself with like-minded people, and set clear goals as to what you wish to accomplish and achieve in your career. With support from a good team and having a mentor to discuss ideas, it would then provide you the catalyst to pursue business ownership. 

It can be scary moving into an area you have never experienced before however there is a lot of support out there and plenty of women who are happy to help, guide and see you grow and succeed.