Peter Florentzos, a seasoned Sales Agent and Partner at LJ Hooker Property Partners, has built an illustrious career spanning over two decades.
Joining LJ Hooker Sunnybank Hills in 2001, Peter became a partner in 2007 and has since been an integral part of the agency's growth and success. Recently, he was honoured with the prestigious Sir Leslie Hooker Award, a testament to his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to both his clients and colleagues. His passion for real estate goes beyond sales figures – it’s about fostering relationships, contributing to the community, and helping others achieve their best. In this interview, Peter shares insights into his journey, his love for mentoring, and the values he believes the next generation of real estate professionals should champion.
You were recently awarded the Sir Leslie Hooker Award – can you tell us a bit about the significance of this award?
As our LJ Hooker CEO, Christine Mikhael, described it, “The Sir Leslie Hooker Award is the most prestigious award of the LJ Hooker network. This award is the pinnacle of recognition in our network, celebrating an individual who embodies the values of mentorship, leadership, office culture and community support that define the very best of the LJ Hooker group. Choosing the recipient requires looking past sales figures and financial success to find someone who embodies the heart and soul of the organisation. Someone whose commitment to excellence is matched only by their dedication to helping others succeed, someone who not only leads with integrity and vision but also fosters an environment where others are inspired to grow and achieve their best.”
Why do you feel it’s important to contribute to the wider community as a Sales Agent and Partner of a real estate agency?
Because real estate is a business about people. It’s not really about selling homes – it’s about helping people achieve their goals, grow their families, retire comfortably and enjoy their lives.
How do you feel about mentoring staff/agents and what drives you to be a mentor?
It’s really all about the satisfaction I get from helping other people grow. I’ve seen so many people come and go in the industry and to have played a part in the success of those who stay and go on to establish incredible careers and become a positive force in the industry is really fulfilling.
Why do you love real estate and what would you like other agents and future agents to know about the industry?
I love meeting new people and looking after people, which is why I was drawn to real estate. It is not just a career – real estate is a lifestyle requiring care and commitment to my clients to get them the best outcome. This is what I love.
What knowledge and skills do you feel are important to impart to the next generation of real estate professionals?
Just as I love the ‘care’ aspect of real estate, passing on my knowledge and experience to the next generation of agents is something I am just as passionate about. I give back to the network by offering training and mentoring sessions within the industry, and I am always available to talk and offer guidance or advice should anyone within the industry need my help. As a successful auction and marketing agent, I enjoy passing on my experience and knowledge to others who want the best outcomes for their clients.
What do you want real estate professionals to embody and champion in the industry going forward?
I've always said that business is about offering customer care instead of customer service. Caring for people during one of the most stressful times in their life is what our clients need most. If you care for them and look after them, and have their best interests in mind, then you have done your job right.
What do you enjoy most about working and leading a team at LJ Hooker Property Partners?
I enjoy working and watching people grow. We have long term team members, both within my personal team and within the office, and they start to feel like family.
What's it like working in sales?
Working on the front line in sales is my passion. I can’t stand still and always need to be around people, so sales definitely keeps me busy. I am always meeting new people from all walks of life, all with their own stories to tell and having the opportunity to meet and help them is wonderful.
What do you feel is the difference you offer to clients?
Offering top customer care and a great team to maximise the results for my clients is what sets me apart. Every sale is approached with care for both sellers and buyers to make their experience easy, stress-free and memorable.
What are some major things you have learnt in your career as a Sales Agent and Partner?
Always be on time, offer customer care not customer service, and if you say you’re going to do something just do it.
What have been your main achievements in your career apart from winning the Sir Leslie award this year?
Other achievements include being awarded the CEO Choice award twice, Franchise Owner of the Year, joining the coveted 21 Club and becoming an Admiral, and being awarded consistent accolades in both sales and auction results year in, year out.
What advice do you have for others wanting to pursue a career in real estate/sales?
Real estate is not just a career, it is a lifestyle. To be the best and offer top care, you need to be on call at all hours. One missed call could mean a missed opportunity for your client.
Peter Florentzos consistently provides exceptional client care, guiding others and striving for excellence in all aspects of real estate. His leadership and commitment to helping others have made a lasting impact at LJ Hooker Property Partners and in the industry. For expert property advice and personalised guidance, contact Peter Florentzos’s team today to leverage his extensive experience and knowledge.
