Geert and Nathalie are the motivated real estate agents at the Albert office in Diepenbeek, where personalized service and transparency are essential. Their shared passion for the profession makes them a dynamic duo who always strive for quality and a sincere relationship with the customer.
Geert, Nathalie and Albert.
It all began at Christmas 2017, when Geert's brother Jan, who was already active in the industry, became interested in real estate. That's how Geert began to immerse himself in the real estate sector with his wife Nathalie. On the other side of the country, they planted Albert's first Limburg flag in Diepenbeek.
Geert and Nathalie on their region of Diepenbeek.
Our first activities came from our own network, and that is still an important source of input. We started in Diepenbeek and Bilzen, really local “around the church tower.” We are also noticing more customers coming to us from Hasselt, which offers a lot of potential because it is close by. We focus on these locations, but like to expand to surrounding municipalities such as Genk, Kortessem and Hoeselt. Limburg is cheaper than other regions, so we have to do more transactions for the same commissions. The village mentality here is strong, especially in Diepenbeek where it feels like everyone knows each other. We are proud sponsors of the local soccer team in Diepenbeek, and the stadium even bears our name: the Albert Stadium. This underscores our connection to the region and our commitment to giving something back locally, which further contributes to the trust and strong bond we build with the community.
Geert and Nathalie, real estate agents who strive for a sincere customer relationship.
We focus strongly on service from A to Z. We offer things that others often do not, such as being present at inspections and setting up a Whatsapp group with the sellers. We also take care of the takeover of utilities. Clients actually only have to sign three times: at the offer, the compromise and the notary. We treat each file with the precision and care as if it were our own property. To us, the client is a person, not a number. We try to build a personal relationship, even about the little things. Transparency is crucial here, as is thinking along with the client.
Geert and Nathalie on the future of real estate.
The biggest challenge is the change in regulations, such as the reduction of registration fees and the renovation obligation. Buildings with an EPC label D are acceptable now, but that will change in the future, removing an important selling point. We expect a huge shortage of rental properties. The demand is already so high that sometimes you have 20 applicants immediately and another 30 on a waiting list. The rental market is becoming increasingly difficult for tenants, and hopefully we'll find more investors for that, something we're proactively working on at Albert.
Geert and Nathalie their message to future brokers.
The best part is that you are surprised again and again by the complexity of files. Every time you think you have seen the most difficult file, another one comes along that surpasses it. In addition, we really do this to help people, their sincere gratitude is for gives the greatest satisfaction every time. There is a big misconception that you can get rich quick in this industry. It is certainly enriching in terms of people skills and personal growth, but it does not make you sleepy rich. Many people forget the costs and efforts involved. For young starters, it is important to prepare well for a long period as a co-pilot before you can become a captain. Getting your BIV number and theory is only the beginning. Then the real work begins!
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