LIVING "By the Real Estate Leaders" Winter 2018 Issue #14 | Page 9

Do you believe that the real estate
business is more challenging for women?
If yes, then how do you overcome these
challenges?
Of course women in Middle Eastern communities have
more pressures than men, as more family tasks are
given to them. In addition to the community’s customs
and the fact that it assigns certain duties to women.
However, being convinced with the idea and the work
itself helps women overcome all these challenges. And
in all fairness, there is a positive side; women’s represen-
tation increased in the business, and the community is
starting to change its view of women for the better.
Nowadays, women hold the highest job positions in the
biggest firms across the Middle East. Moreover, women
have become experts at creating an inspiring work-life
balance and at proving that they can build a successful
career, and take care of their home and family at the
same time.
What were the most prominent changes in
the real estate market in Egypt in 2017?
And what changes do you expect to see in
the business in 2018?
In 2017 the purchasing power decreased due to the
economic reform procedures, which have greatly
affected the size of sales. This manifested clearly in the
first quarter of 2017. It was a relative remission in
buying and selling in the real estate market, due to the
recent increase which happened. However, it will
dissipate quickly due to the fact that there is real
demand for real estate. As for 2018, I believe the real
estate sector in Egypt will witness a positive boost, as a
result to the economic reforms, the exchange prices
stabilizing and the decrease of inflation averages. And
since there is real demand for real estate, I believe the
situation will be better than 2017.
Were you aiming for the Agent of the Year
title? If yes, what steps did you take to
ensure you win the title?
The Top Agent title was definitely on my mind, as is the
case for any agent, but I didn’t expect to get it, because
I did not know about the competitors’ achievements.
However, I hoped I would get it. As for the steps one
should take to reach this title, organizing one’s time is
very important, especially for women who have more
duties and are looking to create a successful work-life
balance. Also, RE/MAX Egypt’s in-class and online
courses are very helpful and encouraging for any agent
looking to further develop themselves, and improve
their knowledge and skills to better serve their clients’
needs. These ongoing courses serve as a supportive
platform for agents to refresh themselves and push
them towards bigger goals and opportunities.
What advice would you give to fellow
women working in real estate?
For women, creating the perfect work-life balance is
imperative as they have more responsibilities. For that
reason, it’s important for women to learn how to
successfully divide their time between their careers and
personal life. Having a proper sales plan based on
timing is very essential as it will help them achieve their
desired goals within their careers and not miss out on
any important moments with their family.
As for both women and men, any agent should
understand their clients’ needs. Clients usually have a
specific idea about what they want to buy, whether they
realize it or not. Thus, the most important challenge
which you might face as an agent is understanding how
your client thinks and what they aspire for. Moreover,
for an agent to succeed in this field, they should also
focus on classifying the client and reach the targeted
category, and create a work plan according to specific
standards.
How do you plan on keeping up this
success in 2018?
I intend on working according to a specific plan and in
directions that go in line with the country’s directions.
As in, specializing in and studying the New Administra-
tive Capital and the New Sahel directions. Another
thing is continuous training, because not only does it
provide knowledge, it is also very encouraging. I also
intend on putting more time in work, and staying away
from any negative energy.
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