Dax has values truly sorted out
DAX ROEP, DIRECTOR OF VALUATION FIRM LANDMARK WHITE IN SOUTHPORT
FIRST JOB – AND WHERE ARE YOU NOW?
One week out of school I began work as a residential real estate agent at Knobel & Davis, at Bundall. It was one of the leading agencies with a large team headed by Kerry Davis. I am fortunate to still be in contact with many of the people from those days. I learned so much and many people from within the group served as mentors. One in particular who I will never forget was the late Mark Bayliss who was tragically taken too soon. Those early days made me realise I had a love for property and my career has progressed from there. I am now managing director of the Gold Coast office for LMW (LandMark White) property valuers, now Australia’s largest publicly listed valuation company.
BEST BUSINESS ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?
Maintain integrity and treat people how you would like to be treated. It amazes me how small the Coast and the world is and often I find myself doing business with someone from way back. People don’t forget, so don’t burn your bridges.
WHAT YOU WISH YOU KNEW WHEN YOU STARTED OUT?
I think the ability to manage your time and determine the genuine from time wasters. As your life goes on, your time gets more consumed by personal and professional demands and you value all the time you have. It’s easy for anyone to be endlessly busy, but being truly constructive with that time is the key.
YOUR GOLDEN RULE IN BUSINESS?
This is the same as the best business advice I’ve received – stay honest and just as important, remain humble.
A LONG LUNCH – A WASTE OF TIME OR ESSENTIAL?
Essential as you can build bonds that will last a lifetime. While time constraints are ever constant, taking time to personally connect with key clients and your own team cannot be understated.
WHO IS ON YOUR BUSINESS MOBILE’S SPEED DIAL?
After nearly 20 years in the property industry on the GC, I am fortunate to have many property contacts who share their time, advice and experience. Without these contacts I could not keep my finger on the pulse.
IF YOU HAD $1 MILLION SPARE, WHAT INDUSTRY WOULD YOU INVEST IN NOW?
The aged care sector is growing at a record pace and accommodation of all levels is something I see lacking. Providing our parents a quality lifestyle in their latter years, no matter their financial status is something I feel we owe them. Alternatively, while $1 million won’t go a long way in this sector, having long been addicted to renovating homes, I would always recommend this to young people. But don’t think it’s as easy as those renovation shows would have you believe.
WHAT SHOULD GOLD COAST PRIMARY STUDENTS STUDY?
Knowing other languages will benefit you in your professional and personal life. Alternatively, I think young people would benefit from business studies, particularly investing and budgeting. While everyone is focused on the quick rich approach, understanding the paths to financial freedom and how businesses, both larger and small, succeed is essential.
BIGGEST FRUSTRATION DOING BUSINESS ON THE GOLD COAST? AND HOW TO FIX IT?
The perception that the Coast is not a professional place to do business. No doubt historically we have had our characters, but we are at a size and have the skills and experience to rival the major cities. The only way to fix this is to prove your professionalism every day and surround yourself with people who share the same values.