With just over 12 months under his belt, Joe Galantino has quickly made his mark in rural real estate, bringing a fresh perspective to help people achieve their property goals.
We spoke to Joe about his career change and the unique challenges and rewards of the rural property market.
How did you get involved in real estate?
I have over 20 years of experience in banking and finance, much of which was spent helping farmers and operations of all sizes across the Great Southern.
I was ready for a change and have always loved the personal relationships in my work. Real estate has always intrigued me, and I saw it as a chance to use my skills more effectively while continuing to build meaningful relationships. When the opportunity to join the Nutrien Harcourts team came up, it felt like a perfect fit given my background.
Have you always been involved in the rural sector?
I was born and raised in Mount Barker and deeply connected to the rural community. My background in accounting gave me early exposure to farming clients, and I’ve seen firsthand the challenges rural families face. From managing finances to ensuring kids get a good education and succession planning, I've walked that journey alongside many in the community.
What types of properties do you sell?
I look after everything from residential housing to blocks of land, lifestyle properties to larger rural and commercial properties, including businesses.
My diverse background allows me to draw on a wealth of knowledge and experience, so I’m comfortable working with a young couple buying their first home or in a boardroom with a large-scale corporate looking to purchase farmland.
What are some of the key considerations when dealing with a rural property sale?
There is heightened scrutiny from industry on farming practices and land use and agents must be super diligent to ensure that sellers are compliant with regulations and engaged in best practices.
Attention to detail in areas such as logistics, biosecurity, farming practices and sustainability is paramount. Agents need to know how a rural property has been used and what it could potentially be used for, so they can better assist clients. Application of best practices, including water management and soil quality are likely to enhance the value and appeal of their property.
This requires very specialised knowledge of agricultural trends, markets, legislation and innovations.
Understanding the complexities of rural properties is essential for agents to provide comprehensive guidance and ensure a successful transaction for all parties involved.
How have you seen the market perform in the last six to 12 months?
The rural market in southern WA remains robust, drawing interest from corporate entities and eastern states investors. Enquiries from Perth residents looking for lifestyle changes are increasing, particularly for smaller 10 to 20 acre blocks in regional areas.
This heightened demand, coupled with limited supply, is driving up prices in certain areas. The current market conditions on one hand are testing the resilience of owners, but on the other hand are encouraging buyers and sellers to plan for the longer term.
What do you love about a career in real estate, especially in rural areas?
In rural real estate, the interaction is even more meaningful. It feels like you're assisting a neighbour or a friend, someone you've known for years.
It's not just about the deal - it's about understanding their needs and being part of their journey. In a smaller setting, you’re likely to run into clients walking down the street or doing your weekly groceries, so it's about building relationships and making a positive difference in people's lives.
The satisfaction comes from knowing that you've helped someone find the perfect home or achieve their property goals, all while being immersed in the local community. You are not just part of one community, you are part of the WA rural community.
What is your advice to someone who is new to real estate?
My advice would be to see the person and build a relationship.
By understanding their needs and aspirations, you can be part of that journey and positively assist someone in their life pursuits. That is where the real reward is.
This approach not only makes the career more enjoyable but also leads to more successful outcomes, as clients appreciate the genuine care and effort put into their real estate journey.