There are few that can rival the likes of Kobie Potgieter, when it comes to real estate.
Few within the real estate industry can rival Kobie Potgieter, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Independent Properties in Nelson Mandela Bay, when it comes to closing a deal and getting the job done. Although never intending to become a real estate agent, having initially started her career as a Grade two teacher, Potgieter has consistently been a top producing real estate professional who is renowned both on a national and international level.
No stranger to winning awards, Potgieter was recently awarded a Circle of Legends career award at the RE/MAX of Southern Africa Awards Breakfast held at the Boardwalk Hotel and Casino in Port Elizabeth. This makes Potgieter one of only five people in Southern Africa to achieve the prestigious award. One of three different career awards given by RE/MAX International, the Circle of Legends was first presented in 1987 with the current requirements of achieving $10 million in gross commission and a minimum of 10 years’ service with RE/MAX. Associates who receive the award must also have already received both a Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement awards. Potgieter has been invited to go to the RE/MAX International Convention, which will be held later this year in Las Vegas, to be recognised on stage as a Career Award recipient.
Potgieter humbly attributes her success to her faith, hard work, committed agents and staff, and her wonderfully supportive family. When asked what characteristics make her successful, Potgieter says:"I believe it is my passion for people and an honest desire to look after their best interests. I truly love the satisfaction of bringing a buyer to their dream home or playing a fundamental role in helping a seller move on to the next phase in their life,” she says. “While adapting to the times and staying up-to-date with industry trends is also critically important, my core principles remain the same.”
Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says: “We are really proud of the quality of real estate professionals we have within our organisation. Many under the RE/MAX banner have achieved some amazing things both nationally and on an international scale. RE/MAX of Southern Africa has proven that we have some of the top real estate professionals in the industry and can compete on an international level.”
Giving advice to other agents that are just starting out in the industry, Potgieter says that it is all about hard work, perseverance and gaining knowledge through continuous training. “This is the foundation that is essential for success in this very competitive industry. Choosing a reputable company that can assist you in reaching goals and providing an environment that is conducive to high performance, will also give new agents the edge to break into this market,” says Potgieter, “Life is about balance and this can only be obtained by being disciplined in all spheres. By constructive planning and prioritising, agents can have a successful business and still lead a fulfilling life with family and friends.”
Having already achieved so much in her own career, Potgieter is focusing on transferring her knowledge and skills to ensure that she leaves a lasting legacy. “I want to continue to run a sustainable, profitable business and provide my agents with the tools and guidance to achieve financial freedom,” says Potgieter. “I also believe that I have a responsibility to be a role model and leader for women in the community. The goal is to empower women in business through various platforms that I’ve created - I especially have a heart for those who have been oppressed. By sharing both my adversities and triumphs with them, I aim to inspire and encourage them to believe in themselves. I want women to know that their past does not determine who they are and that they can create the future they want for themselves,” she concludes.
