🎧 Listen in below or on your favourite podcast platform.
OVERVIEW:
Paul Stirling’s Real Estate Journey
Paul Stirling discusses his career path in real estate, starting with his early days in the hotel and resort industry. He transitioned to real estate in March 1990, joining Ray White after seeing an advertisement emphasising training. Sterling highlights the importance of persistence and confidence in the industry, recounting his progression from a commission-only salesperson to becoming a sales manager within three years.
Auctioneering and Business Growth
Paul details his development as an auctioneer, a skill he began cultivating shortly after joining Ray White. He explains the benefits of auctions for sellers and buyers, emphasising how the method can maximise property values. Sterling also shares his experiences conducting charity auctions, including a recent event in Antarctica, highlighting the personal satisfaction derived from these activities.
Business Partnerships and Challenges
The podcast covers Paul’s business partnerships, including his first venture in 1995 and a later partnership with Joseph. Paul emphasises the importance of attitude when selecting business partners and employees, stating that skills can be taught but attitude cannot. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from full ownership to a reduced role in the business, including a significant setback when key staff left, taking a substantial portion of the business with them.
Transition to Semi-Retirement
Paul explains his current work arrangement, having sold the business to Joseph three years ago. He maintains involvement in sales and auctioneering, enjoying a better work-life balance that allows for extended holidays. Paul emphasises the importance of a smooth transition for staff and clients, noting that many customers were unaware of the ownership change.
Sporting Career and Life Lessons
Throughout his real estate career, Paul maintained an active sporting life, playing rugby league and union. He reflects on how sports built his confidence and resilience, skills that transferred to his business life. Paul shares anecdotes from his sporting career, including playing rugby union at the age of 62 in 2022 and participating in masters athletics events.
Business Planning and Mentorship
Pauldiscusses the value of having a written business plan, crediting his mentor Bill Nelson for guidance in this area. He emphasises the importance of being open to advice and continual learning, even after years of experience in the industry. Paul also shares his approach to mentoring others, offering his expertise while respecting the new ownership structure of the business.
