Wael Sarhan
Wael Sarhan is the CEO of Daddy Estate, a prominent brokerage company in Egypt that employs cutting-edge research and technology to cater to its customer’s needs. Sarhan’s company has contributed to a wide spectrum of munificent projects in a plethora of Egyptian locations. We had an informative conversation with Sarhan, in which he opened up to us about the strategies that kept him on the market’s pillar of success.
What did you major in when you were in university and are you working in the same field? If not – why?
I studied at Modern Academy for Computer Science, yet I didn’t work in the same field since I have always dreamed to work in the career of real estate.
What made you choose this type of business? And what are the goals that you have already achieved? Any other goals you aspire to achieve?
I chose this business to build a career in a field that I love. Helping others make smart real estate decisions is indeed a substantial task; imagine how arduous it is to choose a permanent home and how hard it is to employ sheer spaces and walls to build entire human lives and give people free rein to revel in their luxurious space.
My goal was to be my own boss and build my own real estate company, and I did. Although I am still working to achieve other goals and setting plans to boost Daddy Estate’s position in real estate market. I am looking forward to opening other branches to cover different areas in Egypt. I aim at hiring a professional team because having the right broker is essential to a successful career.
What are the main catalysts that drove your business towards success?
Having a plan and knowing it by heart -Knowing what the customer needs: Customers nowadays are very informed. They do their researches, so if you do not have a plan, they will go somewhere else – Effective distribution that enables you to get to the customer quickly and effortlessly – People and Sales: In Real Estate we deal with different types of people. So, it’s paramount to have your people that can fit in any place. You must make sure that your sales personnel are equipped with the right tools to deliver all required information and reach utmost customer satisfaction. – Believing that hard work will pay off, no matter how long it takes.
How do you advertise/promote your business? And why?
Definitely through social media! Social media isn’t merely a tool for showcasing your work as it has now become a necessary time investment for every business. By employing the various ads and offers on your Facebook page, you can reach a wide spectrum of customers. You can also have a direct channel with your followers on Instagram. Networking on LinkedIn—both at personal and company level—can be another way to enhance your business.
What do you look for in an employee who wants to become part of your business?
A– Knowledge is power: staying up to date regarding the latest topics of real estate and local market will enable you to serve clients more effectively. B- Having a connection network: successful real estate agents have a vast network of contacts within the market they serve. This list of connections should include other players in the real estate industry. C- Attention to details: paying close attention to the details is imperative for your real estate career. If you are organized, follow up with leads, communicate well, and pay attention to the needs of your clients, so that you can achieve more deals. D- A problem solver’s mindset. E- An Appealing personality: successful real estate agents don’t just sell properties, they sell themselves. So, it’s important to show your real personality. F- Hustle and determination: It’s not only about putting in a lot of time, but also about working smart, putting the right amount of time, and doing whatever necessary to strike deals.
If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?
Your work hinges on the knowledge and the progress you can personally sustain.
Is it easier being an employee or an entrepreneur in Egypt in your line of work and why?
I think that being an employee in Egypt is much easier than being an employer since employers are only responsible for themselves; things are easier when done individually. Being an entrepreneur requires a myriad of responsibilities.
Knowing what you know now, would you have done things any differently?
No, I didn’t regret any of my previous steps. I have enjoyed every single phase I went through since I have started working in this field, including risks and failures. That’s what made me the person I am today.
Has your business affected your family life? Positively or negatively and how
Honestly, my family life has been affected negatively. Since I started the company, I have started to spend most of my time in the office.
What do you like doing in your spare time?
I don’t have much spare time, but I try to spend Fridays with family and friends.
What are the habits that you are breaking or would like to break in the future?
I hope to quit smoking one day.
What are the factors that you believe have to be present to contribute to a healthy family life?
I guess support, love, and care. A family home should foster security and communication to make each member feel valued and esteemed.