Taking home the title of Most Influential Woman in Property at last year’s REA Excellence Awards was more than just a personal triumph for Sarah Hackett, Managing Director and Co-founder of Place Estate Agents.
One year on from her win, Sarah reflects on what the award has meant for her and her powerhouse team.
Speaking from one of the 19 Place offices located across Brisbane, Sarah says the recognition was a collective victory for her team, which spans more than 500 people, of which 62 per cent are women – as is half the management team.
“This award has allowed me to share my passion for empowering women on a larger stage, and I have been able to use this platform to inspire and uplift others across the industry,” Sarah says.
Now in its eighth year, the REA Excellence Awards celebrate the outstanding performance of realestate.com.au customers, placing a spotlight on the incredible work of both individuals and teams across the industry.
“Receiving this from REA Group, pioneers in our industry, was particularly rewarding,” Sarah says.
The Most Influential Woman in Property Award recognises courageous women who are breaking barriers, driving change, and inspiring the next generation of women in property.
Having spent more than 25 years developing relationships with high-end buyers and sellers in both local and international markets, Sarah has achieved unrivalled reach in both the luxury and riverfront residential market and apartment project sales.
But beyond these achievements, Sarah says she quickly realised this award wasn’t about her selling record, or even the brand she had built with Place.
“It’s tricky being a woman in business in general, because many of us do have children and we have to step back at times, and to be in that top of any industry requires huge commitment in time and effort, as well as sacrifice,” she says.
“To the exceptional woman who will win this award in 2024, know that you are there because you deserve it.
“Use this platform to inspire and uplift others in the industry.
“Your win is a benchmark for excellence in Australia and a testament to your resilience and dedication.”
Sarah encourages more women to step up and nominate for this award, believing it will create a ripple effect, and build momentum for more women to succeed.
“As women it’s important that we surface the differences we’ve made to the industry, to inspire others and give them the confidence that they can do the same,” Sarah says.
The 2024 REA Excellence Awards feature a lineup of 11 submission-based awards, including Agency of the Year, Rising Star, Most Influential Woman in Property, Contribution to Community and Game Changer of the Year, along with the introduction of a new Excellence in Sustainability Award, which recognises those paving the way for generations to come.
Winners receive exclusive value across REA’s platforms to amplify their achievements in market, plus personalised marketing collateral, industry media coverage, paid advertising, grants, and more, helping set agents up for success, win new listings and grow their business.
Submissions are now open and close on Friday 19 July 2024.
See the full award lineup at theareas.com.au.
