A personal interest in each property
Like his dad, who was also in real estate, Terry Ryan is ‘‘a bit of a talker’’.
And like his dad, he looks after his clients.
That’s why he’ll never take on more jobs than he can handle, just to have more listings. Terry takes a personal interest in each property, no matter the price range, and wants to be there for clients every step of the way.
While large real estate teams are common today, Terry prefers to keep things manageable, in order to maintain that personal touch.
‘‘To market your property to its full potential, I have the support of a personal assistant to help with the administrative aspects of selling your property. We also have a lifestyle consultant and a buyer’s specialist, who offer you a personalised point of contact to ensure buying your next home is a smooth and hassle-free experience.’’
With the support of his team, Terry is able to take the handson approach with clients.
‘‘I try to go to as many open homes as possible. I always communicate with my clients throughout the process, whether that’s sending a report, a text, or giving them a call. It’s also important to tell the truth and be realistic about their options.’’
Born and bred in Hamilton, Terry was raised on a few acres outside of town. The city has grown a lot since then. He loves how accessible it still is – you can get across town in 15 minutes on a good day.
He says Hamilton and the Waikato are great for families, with its quality schooling, and the recent developments and riverside walk and cycleways are a great bonus.
Terry first decided to give real estate a go when he came back from overseas, where he’d worked in insurance.
‘‘I decided, if I’m ever going to give real estate a go, this is the time.’’
He was in his late 20s, and one of the youngest kids on the block. It was a different time, with no cellphones – and a lot less marketing and competition.
Terry isn’t too fazed by competition though.
‘‘It’s all about looking after your clients and building relationships with people. If you’re not getting repeat business, you’re not doing a good job. I’ve sold friends’ parents’ and kids’ houses.’’
When he’s not working, he enjoys watching and supporting rugby and horse racing. A people person through and through, he enjoys socialising on the weekends, even though he’s working with people all week.
Terry reckons he’s been lucky to have a successful real estate career, as the uni path was never for him. He’s been able to build a good life for himself and his family, with some luxuries like being able to go away on trips, and a holiday house he likes to escape to with wife Michelle, who works parttime with him, and son Brodie, 21 and daughter Lydia, 18, who are both at university in Wellington. He’s been able to give back too, by supporting local charities, including Lugtons’ partnership with The Waterboy.
After many years, he still enjoys real estate.
‘‘It’s a lifestyle. You’re your own boss, and you get out what you put in.’’
He recognises it’s a lifestyle that could lead to constantly trying to do more, if you don’t watch out.
‘It’s just a case of not burning out. Not taking too much or overloading yourself. I try to keep things steady and delegate some of the jobs, otherwise you can be constantly running around putting out fires.’’
Instead, he prefers to be in his favourite spot – using his market knowledge, experience and determination to help clients get the best possible result.
Terry’s advice to sellers and buyers
Presentation and staging is important, so do as much as you can to present the house in the best way.
Get the basics done – a good real estate agent can put you onto tradesmen to do those jobs that need to be taken care of, like gardening, house washing, plumbing, electrical work. It’s important that those things get fixed before the house goes to market.
And for buyers, Terry suggests maybe stretching a little financially if you think it will be worth it.
‘‘If you can afford it, and the house is right, think about opting for that price that’s slightly above what you wanted to pay. It’s better than wanting to get a bargain, and then not enjoying the house as much. When the house has the right feel, it’s often worth paying a bit more.’’
As a buyer, it’s also worth getting a buyer’s agent rather than a listing agent. The former is dedicated to taking the time to take you out and help you through the process, and the Lugton’s team can point you in the right direction.
As for the future of real estate in the area, Terry is philosophical.
‘‘It’s that old story in real estate – you can’t predict what the market’s going to be doing. But with the right support, experience and negotiating skills on your side, you’ll always be well prepared.’’
Terry Ryan, Lugtons Greenhill, Hamilton, 021 909 978, terry.ryan@lugtons.co.nz.