Few – if any – of Auckland’s realtors are as respected as the multi-award-winning Leila MacDonald of Barfoot & Thompson Remuera, but her innate humility means that she doesn’t like to discuss such things. She just wants to get the job done.
Now celebrating 35 years in the business, Leila – who works alongside her son, David – is loved for her no-nonsense approach, her authenticity, and for “always being available”.
“I just love the industry, the people,” she says. “For me, it doesn’t matter whether the property is worth $800,000 or $20 million, I treat each one the same. Every sale, every vendor is special.”
Ensuring each client knows that they are so appreciated ensures that ongoing relationships are established, like Leila says, “Business doesn’t end when a deal is done.”
“We get the best outcome for people, no matter what’s happening in the market,” says David. “The final decision is always with the vendor, but we strive to make sure all parties are happy.”
And, from Covid to weather events to a cost-of-living crisis, a lot has happened in the market, but Leila, robust and resilient, remains unfazed. It’s the kind of confidence and expertise that comes with nearly four decades in the business.
“You have to remain positive, the market always fluctuates,” she says. “Buyers often make the mistake of thinking that prices will keep dropping until they hit rock bottom, but it’s just not the case, especially around the central suburbs where people always want to live. If anyone has unrealistic expectations, we’re always honest with them, re-adjusting assumptions about the market.”
It’s not just buyers that can have unrealistic expectations, but fellow industry professionals, too.
“For me, it doesn’t matter whether the property is worth $800,000 or $20 million, I treat each one the same. Every sale, every vendor is special.”
“A young agent recently came to me for advice on how to work with higher-value properties,” recalls Leila. “I told him he needs to start crawling before he tries to walk. And to practise walking before he can run! It takes time to build relationships, clients, trust, reputation. It starts with the basics, knocking on doors, putting cards through letterboxes. It’s the only way you’re going to make it. You also need to be yourself. Be real, let your personality come though.”
Leila’s accolades are too numerous to list, but highlights include several salesperson of the year awards and an induction into the industry hall of fame. Over the years, Leila and David have also overseen the sale of some of the city’s most sought after properties – but quality, she says, is more important that quantity. Leila’s resume boasts both.
And her community presence reaches well beyond real estate, supporting local schools, charities, Starship Hospital and organising and sponsoring local fundraising events, too.
It’s second-nature to Leila. “This community means so much to us, it’s where I raised my kids, and now it’s where my grandchildren are growing up as well,” says Leila. “So, it’s important to be active in the area, and give back where we can.”
All in a day’s work, for Leila and David MacDonald.
021 928 926
l.macdonald@barfoot.co.nz
021 650 901
d.macdonald@barfoot.co.nz
