So You Think You Can Call? REIV's Novice Auctioneer Finalists Compete

Engagement with audience, attention to detail and a sharp focus are all crucial skills for success according to the five finalists in the REIV’s Residential Novice Auctioneer Competition.

In 2018, we have our first female finalist in seven years and two fluent Mandarin-speakers among those bidding for the win in front of a live audience this afternoon (28 August) at REIV Headquarters.

The 2018 Novice Auctioneer of the Year will be announced at the REIV’s Awards for Excellence Gala on 25 October 2018.

Congratulations to REIV’s 2018 Finalists who have cried their way through two rounds of heats:

• Marcus Valmorbida - Jellis Craig (Hawthorn)
• Alex Dimopoulos - Nelson Alexander Pty Ltd (Keilor East)
• Charles Shi - Jellis Craig (Blackburn) Pty Ltd
• Demi Liu - Woodards (Blackburn)
• Ben Thompson - Jellis Craig (Brighton)

The REIV holds seniors and novice auctioneer competition; the novice category is open to auctioneers in the making who have never called a public auction.

The last time a female won the top gong was in 2006, so Woodards Blackburn’s Demi Liu is keen to perform well.

“I have been training hard and received lots of support from my colleagues. It’s challenging for me to perform auctions in my second language, so I am very pleased that I’ve made it into the final: getting this far is a win for me. There are fewer women in the real estate industry than men, but I do believe we are just as capable and can call auctions just as well.”

Alex from Nelson Alexander Pty Ltd said the competition is a great way to prepare for the ‘real deal’.

“I think now more than ever auctioneering is very important. With clearance rates down, it’s handy for a good auctioneer to know the right things to say to generate some bidding.”

Marcus of Jellis Craig Hawthorn said he was ‘stoked’ to get through to the final.

“Winning would mean a lot to me and my real estate career. Being a young agent and having this accolade, I believe it will certainly help with boosting my career as well as my profile.”

Jellis Craig Brighton’s Ben Thompson said he is nervous but excited for the final.

Charles Shi of Jellis Craig Blackburn believes that genuine passion, high standards and unique cultural awareness are some of the keys to his success.