A Story of Trust

Trust is that priceless, fragile human condition that takes years and years to build…

30 years ago, as a very young agent, I – Michael Finger befriended a family – humble, modest and quiet.

Little did I then know that 30 years down the track this relationship would remain firm and full of trust.

At the time the family bought the then most expensive non-waterfront home ever sold in Australia: Leura. Negotiations took place from a distance and $7.3 million passed hands for a very unique heritage home in Bellevue Hill. Shortly afterwards the family moved into Leura, grew and enjoyed a very special lifestyle in this character filled home. Years passed and the home was left to be rented with the family all grown up and spread all over the world.

A few months ago, however, a call to our office reception to meet up with a gentleman reunited me with a now 76-year-old man. It was the same man with whom I had forged such a very special relationship – carved out during the negotiations that took place all those years ago.

“Sell my house,” was the request over coffee. “It’s time to move on.” I bravely suggested an auction for this very expensive piece of Australian heritage and today – some months down the track and a day before the set auction date – I proudly placed a ‘SOLD’ sticker over the ‘For Sale Sign’ together with my ‘lieutenant’ Diane Wilson creating a subrub record of over $30,000,000+.

And marking the complete circle to such a special relationship…

Yes, the commission was handsome but the pleasure and pride of this amazing relationship was so moving: I am still touched as I write this thinking about how my owner friend rang from the UK to thank us for our amazing efforts, care and consideration with so many kilometres separating us again during the sale process.

He commended us for setting the home up superbly; managing the marketing and inspections with precision and professionalism and giving us the utmost praise by saying he had not ever seen anything similar in his career.

So for the youngsters: Look after your people and the rest will look after itself!

And for the property voyeurs: Real estate in premier suburbs is still the best investment – By far!