Women In Real Estate: Meet Natalie Rydon

Meet Natalie Rydon, Associate Buyers Agent and Business Development Manager, Universal Buyers Agents in NSW. Even though it’s technically her first year, she 100 per cent loves her job and feels helping people on their journey to become homeowners is extremely rewarding...

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN REAL ESTATE?

8 Months

WHERE DID YOU START?

My background is actually in Advertising and Marketing. I was employed by some of the biggest global creative agencies, in London and Sydney in client leadership positions. Being the main point of contact for major brands, my role was effectively to manage and execute anything from comprehensive brand strategies, to the production of large-scale campaigns. After 10+ years in the industry and a couple of kids later, I needed a new challenge. I loved being in a client-facing role, so I knew that was a non-negotiable in my next venture. Property has been a big interest of mine for as long as I can remember, and the idea of representing the buyer was very appealing to me.

IS IT YOUR DREAM JOB?

100 per cent, YES! Even though it’s technically still my first year, helping people on their journey to become homeowners is extremely rewarding. I also love the Universal brand and our approach when it comes to representing buyers.

BEST CAREER EXPERIENCE?

Becoming one of the founding team members of Universal Buyers Agents, NSW. UBA is the #1 Buyers Agency in QLD, founded by Darren Piper in 2016. When I received the call to be part of the team in Sydney I was ecstatic. I could see that UBA was going from strength to strength which made it a great time to join.

WORST CAREER EXPERIENCE?

There was a significant and unexpected event that happened a few months back that put me in a tricky situation. However, that can also be life! Thankfully, through my newly established and supportive network, I was able to handle what was in front of me. Surrounding yourself with the right people in business is important but also being able to stay level-headed and solutions-focused in order to get on with things is paramount in Real Estate.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT ABOUT REAL ESTATE DURING YOUR CAREER?

You have to invest in relationships and keep in mind that each person and every relationship is different. Whether it be someone in the industry or a prospective client. Personally, I believe the key to unlocking the hidden power of connections is helping others or being able to add value when you don’t expect anything in return.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT ABOUT YOURSELF DURING YOUR CAREER?

That I am more resilient than I realised. I made the transition into Real Estate when my youngest was 5 months old, and my eldest was 2. 2022 was an incredibly hectic year to say the least, as well as a steep learning curve, but it’s shaped me into an efficient operator today.

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

Given it’s only been a short while for me, I can’t say that it’s changed a whole lot, however, I am constantly inspired by women in the industry who are dominating in their field and doing so with integrity and grace.

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

Not necessarily Real Estate specific, but one of my mantras is to do the right thing by people. You never know how your actions today will impact business or even personal opportunities tomorrow. I am also a firm believer that your reputation is everything in Real Estate. If you are known to have integrity and people like what you did for them or how you made them feel, it will pay dividends down the track.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN?

The killer of success is staying comfortable. When I heard this, it really moved me and was probably the catalyst for me stepping into a new career in Real Estate. I needed to get out of my comfort zone. Every week I try to do something that is a little bit nerve-racking, or something I know ‘old Nat’ wouldn’t do. It’s definitely been worthwhile.

ANY REGRETS REGARDING YOUR CAREER?

I just wish I started sooner. Having said that, my 10 years as a professional in a different industry have been instrumental in my ability to work as a Buyers Agent today.

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

Find out what your values are and stick to them. With time it will define the type of professional you set out to be and how you are known to your peers. Second to that would be to put in the effort and give it time. Success doesn’t happen overnight, it's a journey. Celebrate the wins and learn from your mistakes.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FASHION & BEAUTY TIPS THAT YOU’VE LEARNT WHILE ON THE JOB?

I believe your style should reflect who you are. By that, I don’t mean a t-shirt and shorts! Real Estate is still a professional industry at the end of the day, however, be yourself. I find people naturally gravitate towards that.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?

Being a Buyers Agent requires a lot of empathy and compassion, especially when purchasing for owner occupiers. A lot of the time, you are there to find and secure their “dream home”. Therefore dealing with nerves and emotions is common. Understanding the client’s needs, wants and motivation are important, but it also means there is a huge element of trust involved in your services. Always remain professional and ask someone if you don’t know the answer.

CONNECT

Website: universalbuyersagents.com.au/buyers-agent-sydney/

Instagram: @natalierydon_buyersagent/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/natalierydon/