A Cuppa with Aunty Edna
Edna Rodriguez has served the local community for so long that she has become known as “Aunty.”
We chatted with Edna about how she got into the real estate business and what she loves most about her job.
A migrant from the Philippines, working mother Edna Rodriguez spent many decades trying different careers to support her family. Over the years, she worked in diverse industries such as banking, nursing, and manufacturing. But it wasn’t until she started work with RPN Global Sales in 2006 that she found her professional “home.”
“I love working for RPN Global Sales,” she said. “Out of all the companies I’ve worked for, this is where I could truly be myself.” It was vital for her to find a workplace that shared, encouraged, and nurtured her faith with people who were honest in everything they did and who encouraged her to become a better version of herself. “I liked how the business is built on honesty, transparency, and professionalism.”
She didn’t just love the company, but also the people who worked there. She considered her colleagues at RPN Global Sales her “family” – people who understand her and share her faith and enthusiasm for life and purpose. “I love what RPN stands for because they not only serve the community, but they’re also about mission – making the world a better place.”
Most of all, what appealed to her was the joy she found interacting with the local community.
“I love talking with people; it’s my passion,” Edna said with a smile. “Working in real estate has sharpened my communication skills, improved my people skills, and boosted my self-esteem.”
After taking registration and licensing courses, Edna spent the next 15 years as a property manager servicing the Rooty Hill and Plumpton area. Her decades of experience in different fields served her well, giving her a diverse set of skills that helped her succeed in her profession.
She came into contact with a wide range of clientele, many of whom were migrants like herself who had come from all corners of the world.
As a property manager, the biggest challenge for her was being on call 24/7 for her clients. She once had to visit a tenant in the middle of the night to help them with a property issue. Yet despite these tests, she enjoyed interacting with the “interesting” people that came her way. Over time, she built valuable relationships with many of them that when she left the company at one point, the same clients followed her to the next company. She’s now known affectionately by them as “Aunty.”
“Even though a lot of things can bring you down in property management, and it can be very unpredictable a lot of the time, there is a silver lining,” she said, pausing to reflect. “I used the disappointments as lessons. I learned what not to do, and it helped me sharpen my skills.”
As to the question of the highlights in her career, she didn’t hesitate to answer. “The landlords who had trusted me over time that they became my vendors.”
When RPN Global Sales re-opened last year, she was happy to return. This time, she returned as a sales agent. After many years in property management, the landlords she’d built up a relationship with became the first of her clients when it came time to sell their houses. They then referred her to their friends.
Looking back at her colourful career past, Edna said, “I learned many important life lessons from working in real estate. Firstly, the importance of being humble. People have different things going on in their lives. It has taught me to be more patient and to be more organised too.”
And the most important lesson she had learned? “Just laugh”, she said with a chuckle. “When life throws a curveball, go with it. It’s just part of the job.”
Of course, a chat with Aunty Edna is not complete without asking her what tips or nuggets of wisdom she could offer her clients. With a smile, she said:
“My tip for buyers is to get your finances in order first and foremost. Get a home loan pre-approval so you know how much you can afford.
For sellers, I would say take advantage of free appraisals. We’re happy to give you a free appraisal, and we’ll never pressure you to sell if you’re not ready. Please do some research on the market, and don’t be afraid to wait it out till the market conditions are favourable to you. Get to know real estate agents in your area and form a relationship with them because they can provide free appraisals at any point until you’re ready to sell.
For property investors, my tip would be to understand what your financial goals are. Get a good idea of how much you’re willing and able to spend, which property, and which area to invest in. Do lots of independent research, don’t just listen to advice from well-meaning friends. See a competent financial planner and tax agent to help you formulate a financial plan and give you professional advice on investments.
I cannot stress enough how important it is to involve professionals in any buying or selling decisions you want to make.”
So there you have it, some wise words from Aunty Edna to help you in your buying or selling journey.
We would also like to add that whether you’re a buyer, seller, or property investor, RPN Global Sales have a vast network of trusted solicitors, conveyancers, financial planners, mortgage brokers, and tax agents we could refer you to if you need them.
All you need to do is come around to our office and say hello! Or give us a call on 0434 056 728 and speak to any of our agents for a chat. We’re ready, willing, and happy to help you!
Thank you, Aunty Edna, for your tireless dedication and commitment to our business, clients, and community!
