Seeff Gives Three Cheers For Agent Doris Ricketts' Twenty Years!
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Seeff Gives Three Cheers For Agent Doris Ricketts' Twenty Years!
"Friendly" "Fabulous" "Way Beyond" "Just Amazing". These are just some of the phrases used by elated customers to describe Doris Ricketts and her level of service - something she's been providing now for 20 years with Seeff!
On her very special anniversary, get to know the ball-room dancing enthusiast behind the success as we dive into Doris' story with Seeff and beyond.
Beginning her journey in the property world over 31 years ago, Doris says that she was drawn to the industry because of the flexibility it afforded her as a single mom, as well as the level of personal interaction.
"I have always enjoyed interacting with people on a personal level. What better opportunity than in the property industry where big emotions are often involved in decision-making."
Doris specialises in the areas in and around the Cape Town City Bowl and has successfully sold everything from quaint cottages in Zonnebloem to stately homes in Oranjezicht. She lights up with enthusiasm about our beloved Mother City and is quick to explain why it's an ideal space to look for a home.
"I absolutely love the City Bowl. On my drive into town every morning I get to see the whole of Table Mountain and surrounds which always leaves me breathless. The City Bowl is the perfect area to find your dream house. Whether you want sea, mountain or city views, a small cottage or mansion, sectional title or freehold, you will find it here."
Doris made the move to Seeff after 10 years spent working for a smaller agency. Why the move we asked, and what has made her stay? She answered that the level of extensive marketing Seeff provides is a part of her reason for sticking. The other? A keen sense of belonging.
"I have met wonderful agents and admin team members over the years and can truly say that Seeff Atlantic Seaboard and City Bowl feels like a big family. I also have many happy memories of past clients who have become good friends over the years."
She's one of Seeff's Lifetime Achievers which is no easy feat. In order to stay on her game, Doris keeps up to date with all the latest property rules and regulations and attends courses that add to her knowledge, emphasising the vital need to be well-informed in an ever-changing environment.
But more than that, it's her acute sense of professionalism that's taken her this far. "I have always prided myself on being sensitive to the needs of my clients. I have also learned to never be complacent," she adds.
Given this crazy year, what does Doris have to say to potential buyers and sellers who may be nervous about the market?
"Everything is different, but what I know is that people need somewhere to live and there will always be a property industry. While profit margins may be affected and you may get less for your house, you will also pay less for your new one! So there's always a bright side."
So, for would-be buyers and sellers, why should they choose Seeff above going it alone or opting for another agency?
"The fact that Seeff has operated successfully for over 50 years speaks for itself," says Doris. "It has branches all over South Africa, creating a familiar brand that makes it easy when relocating from one area to another. The Seeff in-house training also guarantees that all the agents are well qualified to work in an industry where rules and regulations change fairly often. You don't get that level of expertise easily."
While Doris has had to temporarily hang up her Latin and Ballroom dancing shoes, she's relishing time spent at home where she enjoys honing her card, Scrabble, and Sudoku skills.
Her parting advice? "Never think you know it all. Always appreciate the little things in life and really enjoy what you do."
Wise words for these strange times, and beyond.
Author: Seeff Atlantic Seaboard & City Bowl
