Women In Real Estate: Ashleigh Portelli

Ashleigh Portelli got her real estate licence before finishing high school and hasn't looked back since. Nine years on, she's built a reputation on the Northern Beaches as a Sales Agent with KAN Property in Manly, known for her honest approach, sharp market knowledge, and genuine care for her clients. We sat down with Ashleigh to talk about the career moments that shaped her, the lessons she's learned along the way, and what it really takes to thrive in one of Sydney's most competitive property markets...

TITLE: Sales Agent

How long have you been in real estate?HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN REAL ESTATE?

9 years

WHERE DID YOU START?

I got my real estate licence while I was still in high school and started working Saturdays doing leasing at an agency in Dee Why. After finishing school, I stayed on part-time and got experience across both leasing and property management. Not long after, I landed my first full-time role as a Sales Associate in Manly, working alongside Kerry-Anne Nielsen, where I really started building my skills in sales and working closely with clients.

IS IT YOUR DREAM JOB?

Absolutely! I knew this was exactly what I wanted to do before finishing school, and it's been a great ride ever since.

BEST CAREER EXPERIENCE?

The highlight for me would have to be listing and selling my first property as the lead agent. It's something I'll never forget. I remember leaving the client's home after signing the agency agreement and just being over the moon. Sales can be challenging, and you put in a lot of work to build relationships, book appraisals, and earn trust. So to list my first property, a house in Curl Curl, such a great suburb, and then go on to sell it for an outstanding price was incredibly rewarding. Being able to guide my clients through the process and help them move on to their next chapter made it even more special.

WORST CAREER EXPERIENCE?

The most embarrassing moment would have to be turning up to a private viewing with a serious buyer and realising the property had been accidentally deadlocked. With no other way in, I ended up climbing onto a rubbish bin and squeezing through a kitchen window just to get us inside. It definitely wasn't my most graceful moment but we made it work in the end!

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT ABOUT REAL ESTATE DURING YOUR CAREER?

Real estate definitely isn't as easy as it can sometimes look. The market is always changing, with plenty of highs and lows, and it can be unpredictable and tiring at times. The most important thing I've learned is to stay resilient and keep a level head throughout it all.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT ABOUT YOURSELF DURING YOUR CAREER

Starting in this industry at 17, it definitely takes time to find your feet and figure out your point of difference. The most important thing I've learned is to back yourself and not compare yourself to others.

HOW HAVE WOMEN'S ROLES IN REAL ESTATE CHANGED SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED?

I've been very lucky to work alongside Kerry-Anne, who is not only a great person but fantastic at what she does. She's been incredibly supportive throughout my career, and I'm really grateful for that. I believe I entered real estate at a great time, when more women were really forging ahead in their careers and creating new opportunities in the industry.

IT'S BEEN A CHALLENGING YEAR, ARE THERE ANY REAL ESTATE TIPS YOU COULD SHARE?

The real estate industry on the Northern Beaches is highly competitive, and when the market tightens, you naturally feel the pressure between agents when appraising property and pitching for new business. My best advice to a vendor is to engage an agent you can truly trust. That's the most important thing, more important than the franchise they're with or the selling fee. In a fast-changing market, it's essential that your agent is genuinely working in your best interests; someone you can rely on, who is knowledgeable, and has the ability to guide and educate prospective buyers while adapting quickly to market conditions when needed.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU'VE BEEN GIVEN?

You can never pick the market. You only really know you've hit the bottom once you're already back at the top. The best time to sell or buy is when it suits you and your personal circumstances. As long as you're transacting in the same market, that's what matters most.

ANY REGRETS REGARDING YOUR CAREER?

Not at all. I am really proud of where I am in my career.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WANTING TO START A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE?

Surround yourself with great mentors, learn as much as you can along the way, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there and ask for opportunities. Networking is so important when growing your business and building a personal brand.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FASHION AND BEAUTY TIPS YOU'VE LEARNT WHILE ON THE JOB?

You're always on the go, so make sure you've got a pair of flats on hand. After a full Saturday of open homes, you'll definitely want to change into them back at the office! More importantly, wear what makes you feel good and confident.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

Real estate isn't always easy, but it's a great career and you meet some fantastic people along the way. Having a good support system is really important, and I'm lucky to have an amazing team, husband, and family behind me.

Connect with Ashleigh:

Instagram | realestate.com.au | kanproperty.com.au

Suite 1, 4 Belgrave Street, Manly NSW 2095

0420 752 563