6 minute read
Kira Steinhaus Paves A Sustainable Path In Property Development
In the ever-evolving world of real estate, where choices leave indelible marks on both landscapes and legacies, MyHaus Property Group stands at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. At its helm is the visionary principal, Kira Steinhaus, a stalwart advocate for environmentally conscious property development. In an industry often measured by profit margins, Kira's mission transcends traditional paradigms, weaving together profitability and ecological mindfulness. Her influence extends beyond the boardroom, as she tirelessly educates clients and fellow real estate professionals on the transformative potential of sustainable practices, igniting a paradigm shift in the way we envision and execute property development.
With two eco-conscious residential property developments to her credit KenLea Estate in Woombye and Abbott’s Road in Palmwoods - Kira is rapidly forging a sustainable path forward, simultaneously maximising the potential for land development while minimising the impact on our environment. Using innovative design and establishing sustainable covenants regarding building materials, landscaping, and water-saving measures, MyHaus is pioneering the way forward to a greener future.
How and why did this unique gem in the wilderness of real estate evolve into an ambassador for sustainable property development?
Children Of The Land
Kira’s upbringing was not just a series of memories, but a tapestry woven with outdoor adventures and a deep connection to the earth. Growing up between Holland and Australia, Kira recalls spending most of her playtime with Mum in the garden. “We’d be running outside, loving the plants and animals, often reminded not to hurt anything. It was fun having our hands in the dirt, really being part of nature and creating that communion with our land.”
Years later, as a mother of two adventurous nature-loving boys, Kira believes the less computer time the better, preferring outdoor activities like nurturing vegetable seedlings and pioneering in the forest.
“I’d rather they climb a tree or get their hands a little dirty than be attached to an iPad,” she says. “The lessons they learn transfer to their actions and behaviours with others. They are kind, considerate, and compassionate boys and I feel that has a lot to do with their connection to the earth.”
Asbestos Shock Sparks Inspiration
The turning point for Kira came not in a boardroom, but in the innocence of play while playing in the dirt with her two toddlers beneath their rented home in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Little did she know that this ordinary day would reveal a lurking danger – asbestos. The shock, the fear, and the realisation that her children’s health hung in the balance ignited a fire within her.
“I know that exposure can lead to longterm adverse health effects 30 years down the road, so it was quite daunting. But what was more disturbing was that there was no accountability from the property management company or the owner of the home,” she says.
“I started doing research of my own and had the council come inspect and tape off my property, forcing an evacuation of our home. It was serious!” Ultimately, Kira educated the agency and the owners about the process. That’s when it became clear something had to be done. Simply handing in the keys and receiving no apology or compensation she said, “This is not good enough.”
But where there is adversity, there is inspiration. Coming from a family dedicated to living harmoniously with the land, her mission statement revealed itself: to create a better world for her boys and educate people on the benefits of sustainable property development and healthier home design. This moment of reckoning prompted a new beginning - the birth of MyHaus Property Group - and a response to the negligence and transactional nature of real estate that had failed to prioritise the well-being of her family.
IT'S NOT A TRANSACTION, IT’S A JOURNEY
As an aspiring agent, Kira recalled watching her mother conduct transaction after transaction over her 17 years in the industry. She was called Ms. Consistency for her steadfast efficiency and professionalism. As a buyer and former tenant, Kira has reflected on the lack of compassionate customer service and follow-up, and pervasive sense that clients are merely numbers pushed through inspections as rapidly as possible. Together, she and her mum have changed their philosophy and made a massive impact with their eco-friendly marketing practices and a relationship-focussed approach on the journey with their clients.
“It’s about nurturing a relationship between people and the properties they inhabit. We exist to transform your perception of property. We are a fullservice real estate company, but we are not agents – we are influencers, inspiring and educating land and homeowners, investors, and industry professionals on how to make better, more conscious choices in property development,” Kira says.
A Symphony Of Collaboration
Named after the principles of passive house design, where European influence meets Australian landscapes, MyHaus is rewriting the narrative of property development. Each structure harmonises with nature and stands as a testament to conscious living. Her clients are those aspiring to leave a lasting imprint while safeguarding the delicate balance of our planet.
It’s a team effort. Collaborating with a network of consultants, including designers, architects, builders, and environmental experts, Kira and MyHaus apply best practices and the highest standards to create legacies that embrace and protect the land on which we stand.
Kira emerges as a formidable force, not merely a leader in sustainable property development but a catalyst for change within the real estate sphere. Her strength, passion, and unyielding commitment to integrity propel MyHaus to the forefront of a new era in property development. This is more than a business; it’s a movement led by an influencer whose progressive ideas put people and the environment first, and as a result, maximise the value and potential for the land.
“I know the words development and sustainability don’t usually go hand-inhand. But I will always be conscious in my choices and how I represent my clients, from the beginning and throughout our journey together,” Kira says.
“We can begin now to transform the way we think. It cannot just be about property value; it must be about the value we place on our planet and on our future.”
