Agent on a bike pedals the personal approach
IF YOU take on Hamilton real estate agent Jason Penny to sell your house, you’re never going to be resentfully reminded how much commission you are paying him every time you see his flash car.
The 36-year-old Bayleys agent will arrive on his bicycle, suit and all, to show would-be buyers your property.
Occasionally, if he’s in a hurry, he may scooter.
Penny, who rides an imported Japanese bike with chain and mud guards to preserve his suit, has been selling in Hamilton for two years.
The young father of two says riding a bike to viewing appointments meets both his social and environmental lifestyle personal objectives and strikes a chord with buyers.
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The former Wellington bikeshop owner believes he is a successful property agent, not just financially but because to him being ‘‘successful’’ means enjoying work, which he does.
He says he doesn’t need a car to drive buyers around because Bayleys does not ‘‘mass market’’ properties and if he’s a bit slower getting round town than some agents, that’s in line with the company’s philosophy of spending time getting to know clients and their wishes.
Penny says he’s debated with colleagues whether arriving on a bike discounts his image as a successful businessman.
‘‘At the end of the day it’s a decision I’ve made. I’m not opposed to having a nice, reliable car. And I’ve done a lot of business on my Vespa. I’d like have a nicer bike, a Rolls-Royce of bikes maybe.’’