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.
Nicole Teich, licensee for Seeff Mokopane, Meg Dyssel – REMAX Advantage, Johannesburg, Pola Jocum, award-winning agent with Seeff Camps Bay 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.
Nicole's dynamic leadership led her branch to win Seeff's prestigious R1 million prize for a successful exclusive mandate sale. The branch and winning agent also received cash prizes.
How did you get started in the property industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
Real estate runs in our family. My parents established a real estate business 21-years ago, and I had the privilege of taking over the reins six years ago. From a young age, I was exposed to the industry and always knew that one day I would follow in their footsteps. Being part of something they built - and continuing that legacy - has been both a personal and professional calling for me.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in the property sector?
If you feel it is your passion, find a trusted and well-established agency in your area which offers strong support, training, and guidance. Success in property is built over time through relationships, reputation, and resilience. Don’t wait to feel “ready” - learn as you go, and surround yourself with people you can grow with. Believe in yourself and in the value you offer. Embrace your strengths, invest in your growth, and show up with consistency because that’s what turns potential into lasting success.
In your experience, what unique skills or perspectives do women bring to the property industry?
Women make excellent property practitioners. We tend to connect with clients on a personal level, listening carefully and offering support which goes beyond the sale. Whether it’s helping a first-time buyer feel confident or gently guiding a family through a difficult transition, women bring calm, clarity, and compassion. These qualities help build trust—and trust is the foundation of a successful career in property.
How did you get started in the property industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
I was 23 when I joined RE/MAX. I had just completed my teaching degree and was running an online beauty business. While I enjoyed both, I felt the pull toward something more challenging and rewarding. During a trip to George, I asked the universe for a sign—and within minutes, I saw a man at the airport with a massive RE/MAX sticker on his laptop. That was the sign I needed. When I got back to Joburg, I applied exclusively to RE/MAX Advantage, and the rest is history.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in the property sector?
“YOU GO GIRL!” If you start today, stay focused, and give it your all—just imagine where you’ll be in five years. You are more capable than you think. Believe in yourself, even when things feel slow or uncertain. Real estate takes resilience and self-trust. Build real relationships, keep your standards high, and learn from your mistakes. Every setback is a lesson. Stay consistent, stay connected, and surround yourself with people who believe in big dreams. This industry will challenge you—but it will also reward you in ways you never imagined.
In your experience, what unique skills or perspectives do women bring to the property industry?
I think woman can often focus on building real relationships with clients, truly understanding what they need—not just trying to push a sale.
Pola is a pioneering multi-award-winning agent, with a decades-long career of success, as one of the top achievers in the country. If anyone knows property, it's Pola!
How did you get started in the property industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
“I combined my qualifications as a secretary, top fashion model, speech and drama teacher, and motivational lecturer with my interest in property. I also had a head start in sales, working in my parents’ general store after school at a young age." She was successful from the outset, and on her very first appointment she already made her first sale, selling a Camps Bay property which she has resold three times during her career. The house today (with improvements) is worth around R35m. There is almost nothing in real estate that Pola has not seen or dealt with.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in the property sector?
Pola emphasises the importance of viewing real estate as a service, not just a sale. Passion, commitment, communication, people skills, and resilience are the essentials that women need. Although balancing work and family can be challenging, the rewards of financial independence and career satisfaction are significant, she says.
In your experience, what unique skills or perspectives do women bring to the property industry?
"Passion, discipline and commitment is needed to succeed in the challenging world of real estate. Women also bring a unique intuition in terms of understanding the needs of clients."
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