Ian Hallford: Award-Winning Oakville Realtor with Royal LePage
How long have you been working in real estate?
I received my Real Estate Licence 21 years ago, in July of 1999. They have been the best 21 years of my life!
What is it that makes you so passionate about what you do?
I love being able to help people work through the complexities of a real estate transaction. Whether they are buying or selling a home, whether it is their first time or their fifth putting a deal together, the challenges of the business are immense, and I really enjoy being there to assist my clients in any way that I can.
What attracted you to this business?
Prior to becoming a Realtor, I had spent five years in restaurant management, followed by ten years in the banking world, handling corporate investments. Moving to the real estate business allowed me to apply the skills and knowledge I had gained in my previous employment. I was quite certain that in spite of the irregular hours in the real estate business, the unpredictable income, and the intense competitiveness of the local market, that I had what it took to not only survive, but to excel.
Is there a particular area you specialize in, either in terms of neighbourhoods, or types of homes, or perhaps the type of clients you like to work with?
Not really. I work predominately in Oakville, but I also help clients in all the towns and cities surrounding Oakville. I sell homes ranging from several hundred thousand dollars, to multi-million dollar custom built estate homes. Whatever the price range, I treat every client the same: with respect, patience and integrity.
In such a competitive market, with so many realtors, what do you offer your clients that you think makes a difference?
This sounds like a cliche, but it really comes down to personal service. Knowledge and experience are both critical, of course, but knowing how to treat people, and earning their trust, is very important. Based on the numerous testimonials I have received from satisfied clients, I must be doing something right!
