President’s report

Leah Calnan

REIV President Who would have thought as I come close to finishing my second term as President that we would still be in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and experiencing statewide lockdowns. 2020 was such a difficult year for so many and we truly thought 2021 would see us in a different place.

Throughout the pandemic we have seen the strength of the Victorian market. That combined with several government incentives and the lowest ever interest rates, consumers have looked for different living arrangements and different locations across the state. Agents, agency offices and property managers have been able to demonstrate their ability to pivot, change and continue to embrace technology (although Zoom meetings are still entertained by “you are on mute”).

I have thoroughly enjoyed my travels across regional Victoria, meeting members and visiting their offices, hearing on-the-ground the challenges they experience along with their fantastic achievements. I strongly encourage future presidents to spend time on the road to learn more about regional real estate as I have found that time invaluable.

When I look back as I stepped into the role of REIV President I thought my biggest challenge was going to be following in the shoes of past Presidents. Was I going to be good enough? Presidents were usually people with real estate sales backgrounds, and older, and far more polished than I was. I wondered what my legacy would be, as I didn’t want to just be a face or a name on the walls that members saw when they walked the corridors of Camberwell Road.

No one could have imagined what was coming my way. A worldwide pandemic, lockdowns totalling 180 days (and still counting), an eviction moratorium, the largest ever legislation changes to residential property management, the normality of working from home, home schooling, a media presence like the REIV has never seen, the metro median house price exceeding $1 million and regional Victoria recording growth greater than metro Melbourne.

I hope all members who have been with me for this journey see opportunities for themselves in a profession I value dearly. That they see that the REIV is invigorated and leading change. I encourage all members to put their hand up to be part of chapter committees and take a leap of faith in yourself and nominate for the Board. You will find the journey very rewarding for your personal growth.

The past two years have been both extremely challenging and rewarding. I am very thankful for the enormous support I received from my team, my clients, the REIV board of directors, Gil King and the entire REIV staff. There were many late nights, many early mornings and lots of weekend work but I wouldn’t change a thing. Finally, I have to say thank you to my husband Matt and my boys Cooper, Jack and Liam. On my toughest days they reminded me to always see the positive and keep smiling because I was working for some of the most resilient people in business.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my travels across regional Victoria, meeting members and visiting their offices, hearing on-the-ground the challenges they experience along with their fantastic achievements.

Leah Calnan – REIV President

REIV President Leah Calnan speaks about Victoria’s property market.

Leah Calnan REIV President