Watson has new member
Starting out in real estate has had its challenges for a new sales consultant.
Working as a customs officer in Tonga is a far cry from selling real estate in Palmerston North but it’s a career change that Vahafolau Halatuituia is relishing.
Halatuitu works at Watson Integrity, having started her training in July and gaining her licence early last month. But she began her real estate career in Tonga where the bulk of the work involved property valuations and marketing. This is just a small part of her role now.
Prior to entering real estate Halatuituia was a customs officer for the Tongan Government. She left that position to pursue business studies and it was during this time that she became intrigued with the idea of a career in real estate.
‘‘I followed through with this and took a post-graduate course in valuation and gained a Masters degree in finance. It was a hard journey as I had to balance work and family but I have been able to achieve that balance.’’
Halatuituia says what first drew her to real estate was the unique land system in Tonga and she wanted to make use of that knowledge.
‘‘Since starting real estate work in New Zealand, I’ve come across similar challenges to those that I experienced in Tonga but within a different context here. I was also motivated by accomplishing small goals, leading me to believe that any small success you achieve is a huge step forward.’’
More importantly, she says, is seeing the satisfaction on people’s faces and gaining their approval of a service you have provided.
‘‘That is priceless and has become my main incentive.’’
The flexibility of working hours was a big factor in choosing to work in real estate.
‘‘The luxury of being able to manage time around my family’s activities has been extremely practical for my busy lifestyle.’’
Halatuituia says breaking into real estate did have some challenges but didn’t seem to be more difficult than entering other fields.
‘‘Your success depends on your patience, persistence, and also what Watsons value - integrity!’’
Halatuituia says one of the strengths she brings to the role is hard work.
‘‘As a female Pacific Island property consultant, I’ve always been willing to go the extra mile. My professional background and training have given me a positive can-do attitude that I can take with me anywhere.
‘‘I believe it is not about promises but service that results in an acceptable outcome for the client. In saying that, I will always give the best service to each one of my clients.’’
Halatuituia says it takes a lot of time and effort to get ahead in the competitive field of real estate.
‘‘A career in real estate is like running a marathon. Unfortunately, people take it as a hundred-metre dash, fast money and rushing in with all guns blazing. It’s not a one-deal game, it’s a career that should be built on with consistency and integrity.’’
Halatuituia says one of the main aspects of her work that she enjoys Vahafolau Halatuituia most is being able to achieve a goal together with her clients.
‘‘This is indescribable. I feel blessed with the opportunity to pursue my career in this industry.’’
She says the toughest part of the job is in its early stages.
‘‘The beginning is the hardest part, trying to establish yourself and build a network takes hard work, however, it is an important stage in your career and I choose to embrace it.’’
Halatuituia says she loves the environment she works in.
‘‘The team around me are very supportive. Watsons is a familyoriented environment that values integrity which aligns perfectly with my personal values and beliefs.’’
She is enjoying living in Palmerston North.
‘‘It’s not as big as other cities, but it has all the services that a family needs. Plus, it is still developing and growing meaning that I still have work opportunities here.’’