Property News
As we celebrate Women's Month, we embark on a journey to explore and honour the dynamic and diverse roles that women are playing in shaping the landscape of real estate.
Andrea Lovell Franchisee Rawson Properties Ottery, Waynette Rule is the office manager at Tyson Properties Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs office - she is a Double Diamond Agent, and Kelebogile Khumalo Candidate Property Practitioner at Meridian Realty, share their journey into the real estate sector, what inspired them to pursue a career in the field, and what it takes to achieve success.
How did you get started in the property industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
My mother, after being in the property industry for numerous years had opened a Rawson Franchise. She was successful in the industry in attaining many achievements as well as growing herself personally. This inspired me to pursue a career in the Real Estate Industry and what better brand to join than the Rawson Brand! After leaving university, I joined the Rawson brand. My career started in the rental sphere but thrived in the sales sphere of Real Estate. At this time, the Board Exam was still a requirement which I passed. Thereafter, the criteria had changed and I strived to achieve principal status. Which I currently hold for numerous years. The Real Estate Industry is ever growing and the edification in the industry is rewarding. One is always growing and learning in the industry which excites and pushes me.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in the property sector?
You can do it! Anything that you put your mind to, you can achieve.
This is an ever-changing industry. Constantly keep abreast with the industry changes, legislation and upskilling of yourself. Never forget the fundamentals in the industry. There are highs and lows in the market and when the market is not booming go back to basics that helped you get on the mountaintop. Your reputation precedes you! Offer that outstanding service – especially to the difficult clients. Be known by your integrity and most of all… be honest with your clients and everyone that you deal with. You are assisting people with one of their biggest assets. Irrespective of the price or condition of the property, treat it as if you are selling their million-dollar possession. People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
BE PASSIONATE!
What initiatives or changes would you like to see implemented in the property industry to create a more diverse and inclusive environment?
This is one industry that us as women, hold positions of authority. Our PPRA Board has many positions of women in high ranking and of diversity. Within our yellow brand, we have numerous women in positions of authority from Directors at Head Office to Franchisees. These women achieved these positions through hard work and making an indelible stamp in the industry. Women have a dominant and predominant role in the Real Estate Industry.
I personally feel that women have an equal stake in the industry. We have made our mark and continue to flourish in this industry.
In your experience, what unique skills or perspectives do women bring to the property industry?
Women by nature are nurturers. Thus, we have the ability to have compassion with clients when purchasing and selling a property. We bring a touch of empathy and sometimes sympathy to the situation. We may be tough as nails yet soft as butter. This is a characteristic that woman hold proud and assists us in the market place. When selling a property, we know that 90% of the time the wife and children have the final say. We have the flair to relate to the women and their requirements when purchasing a property as well as show compassion to the children. Women touch the humane side of selling and purchasing property. We do not sell houses but rather homes and ensure that families / individuals are placed in a home to suit their needs. We are strong and intuitive beings and this propels us in our successful careers.
Waynette also won 'Most improved office’ in the Tyson Properties’ group this year - a huge accolade. She began her real estate career only four years ago (in the month of August) and she’s been leading the office since January 2024.
How did you get started in the property industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
When selling my home, I really loved the process and viewing appointments, getting my home staged and ready.
Going on numerous viewing appointments myself looking for a new home I really got quite frustrated and thought this is such an important job and felt it wasn't being done in a way that met my expectations -
the penny dropped and then the search for the right brand started.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in the property sector?
Go in with the right mindset: Don't treat it as hobby, try doing it part time and think its flexible hours. Well, not if you want to make it to the top. It's hard work and long hours.
In your experience, what unique skills or perspectives do women bring to the property industry?
For me, being a woman in property means leading with both strategy and intuition. Managing a team and driving sales requires hard data and clear targets, but it also means really listening to clients, to my agents, and to the market. Being a mom to two teenage boys has taught me how to stay calm under pressure, negotiate with purpose, and see solutions where others see problems. Those lessons translate directly into how I close deals and build a business that lasts.
How did you get started in the industry and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
I’ve always had a natural love for houses, I used to spend hours browsing property websites, imagining the lives people could build in those spaces. My younger sister would always joke that I dressed like a real estate agent long before I ever became one! Looking back, I think the signs were always there.
What truly drew me in was the idea of helping people find a place to call home. I’ve always been passionate about people, and real estate gave me the chance to combine that passion with a career that offers independence, growth, and purpose. Being able to make a real impact in someone’s life, while doing something I genuinely enjoy, is what keeps me inspired every day.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in the property industry?
Be confident in yourself, even when things feel tough, and stay consistent. Real estate isn’t always easy, but it rewards those who keep showing up, who keep learning, and who stay true to themselves.
Build real, meaningful relationships and always be honest, that’s what builds trust with clients and colleagues. Don’t be afraid to take up space or to speak up. There’s room for you in this industry. Trust your instincts, stay professional, and keep growing. Every challenge is a lesson, and every win is worth celebrating.
In your experience, what unique skills or perspectives do women bring to the property industry?
Women bring heart into this business. We know how to listen, really listen, and pick up on the little things that matter to clients. Buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction, it’s emotional, and I think women naturally connect on that level.
We’re also great at multitasking, paying attention to detail, and building real trust. People feel safe when they know you understand them and have their best interests at heart. For me, it’s not just about closing a deal, it’s about building relationships that last. That’s the difference women bring to the table.
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