And an opportunity for people seeking a career in real estate
Venkat Raman
Auckland, October 16, 2021
When Barfoot & Thompson (B&T) announced that it is opening a new office in Mangere and that its Manager would be Munish Bhatt, we were pleased but not surprised.
For, opening an office to reach out to its growing customers throughout New Zealand’s largest City is a constant exercise for the biggest real estate agency, and going beyond his brief to serve people is the wont of Mr Bhatt.
We understand that the new office will be officially opened on November 15, 2021.
Leadership Opportunity
When he joined B&T more than six years ago, we had observed, (Indian Newslink, September 1, 2015), “In his previous role with the New Zealand government, he delivered the very best professional and personal services to his clients to help with their settlement and employment needs. Mr Bhatt is in the process of building his reputation in the real estate industry, bringing with him more than two decades of outstanding sales, marketing, fundraising and branding experience with various multinational and local companies.”
Mr Bhatt said that he is excited with the leadership opportunity.
“I will be working hard to build a world-class, happy workplace, focused on the four core values of Barfoot & Thompson: People, Family, Community and Diversity. As the economic effects of Covid-19 bite, many skilled people are keen to switch industries and build careers for themselves. Auckland’s biggest real estate company is coming to Mangere and wants to encourage new people to the real estate industry and reach their full potential,” he said.
Stimulating South Auckland market
Having met hundreds of vendors and a wide range of people keen to own a home, Mr Bhatt understands the nuances of a market that has for more than two decades witnessed demand unmatched by supply. Opening of a dedicated office, located at 359 Massey Road in Mangere will help to develop the market in the South Auckland suburb and stimulate business activity.
Barfoot & Thompson Managing Director Peter Thompson said that the decision to expand the Company’s branch footprint in the Manukau area was an easy one given the increasing residential development in the area.
“As a family-owned company, our business is about people and hence the residential needs of the local community are important to us. With Mangere being one of the largest and most multicultural suburbs in Auckland, it was a natural choice for us to have a dedicated presence by investing in a new branch in the suburb,” he said.
Mr Bhatt acknowledged the challenges faced by the market, saying that the decision of the B&T management to open a new office in Mangere demonstrated its confidence in the area.
“My team of many established salespeople and new emerging talent are dedicated, have a wealth of knowledge and experience and are ready to get out into the community. Giving back to the community in which we operate is the cornerstone of Barfoot & Thompson and my professional commitment. If you are looking for a career in real estate and want to be part of the Mangere community, I would love to consider your interest. I have no doubt that working with the community we will be able to enhance our presence and make a marked difference in the residential real estate space in the Mangere Central, Favona, Mangere Bridge, Middlemore and Mangere East areas,” he said.
Fine attributes
Amongst the strengths of Mr Bhatt are his professional attitude and the ability to listen and understand clients’ needs. He is a successful negotiator and problem solver. As well as being a committed and hard-working person, he believes that integrity, trust and honesty are paramount to the success of any transaction.
The unique structure of Barfoot & Thompson and its more than 75 offices located throughout Auckland and Northland facilitate Mr Bhatt to list and sell anywhere without the usual restrictions of franchise companies.
“It is not uncommon to have any of 1500 residential, lifestyle, rural, commercial and diversely cultured salespeople within the company introduce a buyer from anywhere in Auckland, all working together to sell your home. The support is second to none,” he said.
Thoroughly family-oriented, Mr Bhatt is careful to find the right balance between his work and personal life. Quality family time is important to him and he always finds time to listen and connect.
His social activities in the past have included Co-Founder-Trustee of Sports Recreation and Outdoors Trust (2009), Executive Member of Indian Association Manukau New Zealand and International Yoga Day.
Munish Bhatt can be contacted on 022-0686474; Email: m.bhatt@barfoot.co.nz
