Patrick says his initiative for houses in ‘blue chip’ suburbs was intended to increase interest, foot traffic, the duration of viewing and the enjoyment of the viewers.
For selected properties, he can arrange for the services of Sven Roehrs, a member of the Brisbane Chorale, one of Australia’s premier symphonic choirs, who has also sung with OperaQ and was recently invited to sing with Opera Australia in Aida.
In his first OFI appearance, Sven performed at in the up-market Chapel Hill suburb.
“We had more than 60 people attend the first open for inspection, which is about three times what we would consider the usual average,” said Patrick.
“Sven’s tenor vocal ranges typically infuse an air of light and optimism to the proceedings and, more importantly, drive up the viewing numbers.
“Can this assist the sales process and lead to a result? It’s a strategy that will work in certain situations; for example, when there are a lot of other opens competing for attention.”
Patrick says RE/MAX Riverside pre-publicises Sven’s attendance at an OFI through a letter drop inviting up to 200 neighbours a few days before the event, as well as social media.
“This has the effect of ensuring a ‘busy’ first open and creating positive conditions when potential purchasers view.
“It’s different, it’s fun and both the vendors and viewers love it.”
The property went under contract after that one OFI. The additional interested created through this unique open inspection helped drive three immediate offers. The vendors were hoping to achieve a sale approaching the late $800,000’s and the winning contract price well into the $900,000’s greatly exceeded their expectations.
“I was going to go on to another open home but I enjoyed the Tenor so much I lost track of time and suddenly realised I really liked the house and decided there and then to buy it!” Wen Chi Hu, purchaser of 52 Maculata Street, Chapel Hill
The tenor has since performed at a stunning Chelmer home, and Patrick says Sven’s next appearance at a high-end riverfront apartment will be a night time soiree where wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
Sven Roehrs classically trained under OperaQ soloist Virgilio Marino, as well as Manish Singh and Anna Stevens of the Royal Academy of Music in London The multi- faceted artist also likes to sculpt and paint, and his Archibald entries have included highly-regarded Australian poet, Bruce Dawe OA, and stem cell scientist, Professor Alan Mackay Sim, the 2017 Australian of the Year.
When Patrick Martin first came to Australia from Ireland in 2008, he immediately fell in love with the country. Having worked in property sales and construction for over 20 years, he sold over $12 million in properties in the last 12 months.
