For UK-born Emma Gilbert, moving from the hairdressing industry to real estate wasn’t as big a leap as it might seem. With years of experience as a business owner and hairdressing trainer, Emma had already mastered the art of listening and problem-solving. Her natural talent for building connections and understanding people’s needs made her shift into real estate a smooth and successful one.
Now, as a REIWA trainer, sales representative and property manager – and co-owner of Home Property WA – Emma combines her love of helping others with her drive to elevate industry standards. Whether working with clients or training new professionals, she believes listening and understanding are at the heart of success. For Emma, it’s not just about selling or leasing properties – it’s about building trust and sharing knowledge to shape a stronger industry.
How did you start your journey in real estate?
Emma: My husband Adam was in real estate, and I initially just helped him out on weekends while working full-time. After two weekends, someone asked me to sell their home. I quickly realised I loved connecting with people and naturally fitted into the industry, so I completed my REIWA training course in 2011. We then opened an office in the western suburbs under a franchise before eventually launching our own brand, Home Property WA in 2020, offering both sales and property management.
Which is tougher: sales or property management?
Emma: Both have their own unique challenges. Property management is more demanding over the long term, as it involves maintaining ongoing relationships with clients. Sales, on the other hand, is intense too, but typically shorter in duration, as you're often guiding someone through one of the biggest financial decisions of their life. Each requires its own set of skills and resilience.
What makes real estate a good career for someone looking to switch industries?
Emma: It’s incredibly rewarding if you’re good with people. Coming from hairdressing, I found the skills transferable – listening, problem-solving and building trust are crucial in both industries. Plus, real estate offers flexibility, autonomy and the chance to create a lifestyle you love. You’re not tied to a desk; every day is different.
How has the industry changed over the years?
Emma: COVID accelerated everything. Property managers are under huge pressure with rising demand, and sales agents face more competition as new agencies and agents flood the market. It’s a fast-paced, evolving space.
Why are you passionate about training?
Emma: Training gives me the chance to help raise the standard of our industry. I love sharing real-world knowledge and learning from my students’ perspectives. Every day, I see the potential to make our profession better, one Agent/Representative at a time. Plus, I enjoy making training interactive and engaging – it’s about more than ticking boxes.
What advice would you give to someone just starting in real estate?
Emma: Take time to build strong foundations. This industry is about more than transactions – it’s about relationships. Find a mentor and ask questions. Developing your knowledge and soft skills are equally important. The more you invest in developing your skills, the more successful you’ll be. And make sure you train with a reputable training organisation.
What’s the best part of a real estate career?
Emma: The people! Whether it’s clients or colleagues, you meet fascinating individuals and build real connections. You can design your own path and be rewarded for your hard work. It’s a people-focused industry, and if you love that, you’ll thrive.
Real estate offers endless opportunities for growth and connection, whether you're starting out or making a career change. With the right mindset and training, it could be the perfect fit for you.
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