Agent Spotlight: David Parlor, sales executive, Acton | Belle Property Rockingham and Baldivis

Don’t let people talk you out of following your dream says David Parlor, who spent decades working in other industries before finally taking up a career in real estate. 

We spoke to him about his journey from casino management to REIWA’s reigning champion salesperson for auctions listings sold, why he believes auctions are the best way to sell property, and a recent auction that surprised him. 

How did you get involved in real estate? 

I always wanted to work in the industry, but I let other people talk me out. While studying at university, I had a part-time job in a casino, which led to me working in casino management around the world for 20 years. However, I eventually returned home to Perth and decided it was time to follow my passion. 

What do you love about this career?  

Providing excellent customer service and matching people with suitable properties is really satisfying. I initially found real estate to be very transactional, so I strive to bring a personal touch to every sale and make the process enjoyable for everyone involved, from buyers and sellers to investors. 

What led you to choosing auctions to sell property? 

The market is constantly changing and keeping up to date with the current conditions can be challenging for buyers and sellers. I find some buyers rely on outdated prices when making offers, while some sellers overvalue their properties. Other sellers may be willing to accept a lower price based on past market conditions, but in reality they could sell for more. 

I like auctions because they allow the market to determine the value of a property at a particular moment. They also make the buying and selling process more transparent and fair for everyone involved. 

For example, during a standard sale, some buyers who think they have put in a strong offer may miss out on properties only to find out that they were short by a small amount. They didn’t know where they stood in relation to other buyers. In contrast, the auction process lets them see what other buyers are offering so they can offer more if they want to.  

They can also be confident that they are not the only ones willing to pay the market value of the property. All cards are on the table, and everyone knows at what price other people are bidding. If no one else wants to bid any further, it's a clear indication that it's the market value.  

Sellers can feel at ease knowing that everyone has had a chance to make their best offer and they are getting the best price the market is willing to pay.  

Auctions have also evolved from just being held on site, to online where you can bid from the comfort of your own home. I do most of my auctions online now. 

Auctions have historically been promoted as the quickest way to sell a home. Homes are selling in a matter of days at the moment, why should people still sell by auction?

In a market where houses are selling quickly, it may be tempting to take the first offer you get, but the auction process brings more transparency and competition to the sale.  

I prefer to take all of my properties through one home open so everyone has the chance to see it. With a little bit of patience, the auction process ensures that the buyer who wants the property the most gets it while the seller gets the best price. 

What is your advice for buyers and sellers when it comes to auctions? 

Buyers should do their research, know their budget, and be prepared to stretch a little bit more to secure the property they want. They need to be registered and ready to place a bid if a property interests them so they don’t miss out. Also, get familiar with the action process. I make sure buyers understand the online process I use so they feel comfortable taking part. 

For sellers, my advice is to be patient, allow for a competitive market, and trust in the auction process to get the best value for their property.  

What has your local market been like in the past 12 months?  

There is a strong demand from interstate buyers, which has been the most significant change in the past year. About 50 per cent of people bidding on my auctions are from interstate. In a recent sale, 14 people placed bids, and all of them were out-of-state investors. This was the first time I experienced an auction where all bids came from investors. Normally, the split between investors and owner occupiers is 50/50, so that was a big surprise.  

What is your advice to those thinking about a career in real estate? 

I wouldn’t recommend jumping straight into auctions, I’d suggest some experience first. Their first move should be to join a reputable company with good training. I advise giving it at least 12 months, as the first year in real estate is the toughest. It can be challenging to gain people's trust to sell their biggest asset without any experience. However, if you persist, build your reputation, and show good results, you'll be successful.