As director of CENTURY 21 Grant Smith Property, Grant Smith is one of Australia’s youngest real estate principals. Having grown up on the Sunshine Coast, Grant is a true local. His achievements in the real estate industry have been recognised both nationally and internationally, speaking at a number of events and conventions. At just 23 years of age, Grant’s successes and achievements have been no easy feat. Genine Howard talks with this real estate young gun ahead of the next  On The Red Carpet special event, held to honour Sunshine Coast men in business.

profile: Where did you do your study?
grant: I completed my studies from when I was 14 through the REIQ, and over a six year period I completed my full licence and auctioneers certificate, all before the age of 20.

profile: What was your first job?
grant: My first job, ironically, was real estate, at a young age. I’ve always had a passion for the industry, and for housing, marketing, and most importantly the people you meet within such a social industry.
 
profile: Who or what inspires you?
grant: Mum has always been a great rock for me; she grounds me when I need to be, and I certainly could not have achieved what I have without her support.
 
profile: What motto do you live by?
grant: ‘Luck is preparation waiting for opportunity’ … it is a quote I heard from a client at an appraisal once, and I truly believe it is a quote that sums up success.
 
profile: What is the one biggest issue facing your industry?
grant: It is fortunate people will always buy and sell real estate. However, with market trends and the volatility of prices, it is not always easy to establish an accurate market appraisal which is why there is an increase in ‘no-price’ marketing, such as auctions, to determine buyer interest level and achieve a premium sale in minimum time.
 
profile: Is there an event in your life that has had a profound effect on how you live?
grant: I have always been very driven to succeed. We are all born with the same opportunities, the difference is what we each do and the risks we take to create our own destiny.
 
profile: What is the best business advice you have received?
grant: The best advice I have been given in business is to take risks, don’t be afraid and to make the most of every opportunity presented to me.
 
profile: What opportunities does the Sunshine Coast offer that metropolitan cities don’t?
grant: The advantage to small business on the Sunshine Coast is, despite the growth, it is still quite a small town. And growing up in the area, people and peers like to see someone succeed in their own backyard.
 
profile: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
grant: If you asked me 10 years ago, I certainly wouldn’t have thought I’d be where I am today, so as far as 10 years ahead, the world is my oyster. I am very goal orientated and there are certainly a few visions in the pipeline for the near and distant future.
 
profile: In years to come, what would you like to be known for?
grant: The real estate industry is evolving from an older generation to a dynamic, young, successful career field - there are a number of young and very successful agents on the Sunshine Coast that have paved the way for the new generation in real estate, and it is great to be a part of that. I think it’s exciting to be able to showcase that you can strive to achieve goals and be successful at a young age in any career.

profile: How do you give back to the community?
grant: I am passionate about supporting and giving back to the community in return for what they have given to me. I have spoken at a number of schools in the area to inspire the youth, as I think it’s important to embrace our future generation. Earlier this year I sponsored the Sunshine Coast Youth Film Makers Festival, and when the opportunities arrive I enjoy charity auctions. Particularly with fundraisers and charities, I try to involve myself in as many community based initiatives as I can.
 
profile: What valuable lessons have you learnt from starting your own business?
grant: Every day there is a lesson learnt; you never stop learning and no one lesson is more valuable than another, you simply need to soak up all that you learn.
 
profile: If you had your time over, would you do it the same way?
grant: Absolutely! I have enjoyed my journey so far. I’ve learnt some great lessons and met incredible people along the way.
 
Grant Smith is just one of the young Sunshine Coast men to be celebrated at the July 6 On The Red Carpet event to be held at Masellis Deli, Birtinya. Event starts at 6pm and cost is only $47 per person including cocktail food, beverages and entertainment. For more information on event details, head to www.whitehousecelebrations.com.au or phone 5450 1262.