First for women in Real Estate

In an Australian first for women in the real estate industry, Kareena Ballard has been elected President of the Real Estate Institute of Australia for 2003 – 2004. Ballard is managing director of Quin Ballard Real Estate in Perth, and a director of White McMullen Real Estate in Dunsborough, a country town in Western Australia.

“Having worked in the real estate industry for 20 years, I look forward to this opportunity to continue making a contribution to an industry which represents a large part of the socio-economic platform for the well-being of all Australians,” Ballard said after gaining the plum appointment.

Ballard is recognised as an industry leader, both nationally and in her home state of Western Australia.

“It is important for the industry that we work closely with government and consumers to ensure the highest possible professional standards,” says Mrs Ballard, who is an industry representative to several government committees including the Heritage Council of Western Australia, the Customer Service Council of the WA Department of Land Information, and a board member of Property Services Australia, where she chairs a sub-committee responsible for the development of national training competencies for the real estate industry.

“As a small business owner with a particular interest in residential property sales and management, I love the people contact of my profession,

“We are consumer-oriented and committed to working to the highest professional standards. Part of that is helping educate the public so that they can feel comfortable and confident when buying and selling real estate.”

Ballard will be supported in her role by Deputy President Ian Wells of Tasmania.