Sam Goddard knew what he wanted to do in life when he was just 15.
Growing up in Geelong and boarding at Melbourne Grammar, working in real estate was always his dream. But it was Year 10 work experience at a local real estate agency that confirmed it.
“It’s all I ever wanted to do,” Goddard says. “I enjoy communicating with people on all different levels which is essential in this business. I thought it would be something I’d be good at.”
And he has been proven right. After leaving school, Goddard spent 12 months working at a Geelong real estate business before joining Abercromby’s in Armadale. He hasn’t looked back.
Five years later, he is now a Director of the freestanding boutique agency, specialising in high‑end properties. Goddard recently sold a Toorak property for about $11 million, a far cry from his very first sale in the industry – a Geelong home that sold for $163,000.
“When I first started, the thought of selling a home worth millions seemed far‑fetched,” he says. Abercromby’s  market includes high‑end suburbs Toorak, South Yarra and Armadale – which Goddard says brings different challenges to his job.
“Selling properties is like putting together a big jigsaw puzzle.You need to get the timing right, get involved in your community, build the right networks and make a positive impact with your clients.” 
He believes the key to his success is “being an honest communicator” and building relationships. “You say what you are going to do and stick to it. It’s simple business … be clear and talk straight.”
Goddard says the market for top‑end properties is strong, driven by local buyer demand. He has seen a surge in expats returning to Australia for their children’s education and looking to settle down.
“To some extent, a lack of stock has pushed up price. There has been a real spike in the price per square metre of the more opulent pockets. When properties go on the market, they often sell before auction.
“Privacy around sales is very important. Some are not even advertised. We have a database of contacts and we know what they are looking for so, on occasions, it’s about matching the right person with the right property.”
Goddard doesn’t dwell on his losses. When he misses a listing, he views it as potential business for the future. This attitude and his business success has brought him to the attention of his peers. He was a finalist in the 2016 REIV Outstanding Young Agent of the Year and runner‑up in the Domain Rising Star. However, Goddard doesn’t take anything for granted. He has a number of mentors, inside and outside the industry, and enjoys nothing better than hearing the stories of agents who have “made it to the top” in real estate.
“People call me the office sponge,” he laughs. “I’m always absorbing information.”
Goddard admits his work consumes much of his life, occasionally to the frustration of his girlfriend, but he does enjoy a round of golf (he is a member at Barwon Heads), catching up with friends and dining out.
He is happy to offer some advice to new starters in the industry. “You need to be willing to work hard and not look at  short‑term success.
“It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. I’ve only been working for five‑and‑a‑half years which is just the start. Love it and have fun.”
 
‘Being an honest communicator ... You say what you are going to do and stick to it. It’s simple business ... be clear and talk straight’

Article from "The Estate Agent" ❘April2017     

1972. Led Zeppelin cut their Kooyong concert short due to rain, Carlton beat Richmond in the VFL Grand Final by 27 points and Australia says “it’s time”, ending 23 years of conservative rule by electing the Labor Party, with Gough Whitlam as Prime Minister. Meanwhile, in Brighton, builders put the finishing touches on an elegant new home designed by architect Guilford Bell at. 32 North Road.

Better known as the Seccull House (for the couple who commissioned it, William and Elaine) today it’s stated as an “extraordinary work” by the Victorian Heritage Database. And, after a sensitive restoration and one previous attempt late last year, the house is back on the market.

RMIT Professor of Architecture Leon van Schaik AO, editor of The Life Work of Guilford Bell, architect 1912-1992, says the Seccull House is “among the best” of more than 70 buildings designed by the architect, known for his pure designs and modernist aesthetic. Read More Here: https://peterbarrett.com.au/2017/04/18/seccull-house-for-sale-your-chance-to-own-a-piece-of-1970s-melbourne-history/

We are delighted to advise that Sam Goddard has been appointed as a Director of Abercromby's.

Sam’s dedication and hard work coupled with his maturity and leadership qualities leaves no doubt that Abercromby's will be in good hands well into the future.

We congratulate Sam on his appointment and look forward to a long and successful relationship. Sam can be contacted on 0448 870 454 or email: samg@abercrombys.com.au.