Special Feature

All-in-one realtor Ethan Ang redefines mastery in both residential and commercial real estate

September 20, 2024 5:15 PM SGT

Ethan Ang, PropNex Realty(SG) receiving the award from Cecilia Chow, EdgeProp (SG) (Photo: Samuel Isaac Chua/EdgeProp Singapore)

"I’m a strong believer in being the one to make a lasting positive impact on your clients and improve their lives through real estate." — Ethan Ang

Award-winning agent Ethan Ang stands out in a competitive real estate market with his unique one-stop service for commercial and residential properties. His distinctive approach and proven track record in marketing these properties have made him the top choice for high-net-worth clients with diverse property portfolios.

At the beginning of his career in 2011, Ang concentrated primarily on residential properties and shophouses. His passion for architecture allowed him to appreciate the intricate beauty of these properties and the history behind each shophouse. He has always been inspired by how real estate can help people grow their wealth and achieve financial freedom.

Ang has achieved many awards for his achievements in the industry. (Photo: EdgeProp SG)

Venturing into commercial properties comes naturally to Ang, who is dedicated to expanding his industry knowledge. His early experience working as a facility manager at a REIT gave him a solid foundation, giving him a head start in refining his skills and mastering the commercial property sector.

Ang also noticed a significant market gap in his early years: most agents specialise in either residential or commercial real estate, rarely both. This often left high-net-worth individuals struggling to manage their property portfolios through multiple agents. Recognising this need, Ang has become a versatile realtor skilled in both sectors.

He says his strategy works well for many clients, including himself, who are looking for hassle-free solutions. Ang explains: “Positioning to be an all-rounder realtor and having just one agent to manage their diverse property portfolio gives them more efficiency and a better overall service experience that they can trust. The long-term relationship with my clients is a two-way interaction that proved a win-win situation for the clients and myself.”

Propnex Malaysia event with the team. (Photo: Ethan Ang)

His focus on efficiency and service excellence has also become his unique selling point, attracting clients and generating constant referrals.

Being actively involved and maintaining connections with clients across various industries has given Ang valuable insights into market segments. This on-the-ground perspective has given him a clear view of market and real-world trends instead of general sentiments.

Ang receiving the Gold award at the SEAA Awards 2024 from Warren Chan, Executive Council of SEAA. (Photo: Ethan Ang)

“Since I can quickly grasp where the market is going, it gives me a first mover advantage and I can make fast analysis to give appropriate advice that is most favourable to my clients,” he adds. “My clients recognise that I am hardworking and will do my best to ensure their real estate investments and transactions are highly profitable. They know I always have their best interest and give them sound advice.”

Ang continues: “In my early years as a realtor, I had the good fortune of meeting wonderful clients who knew that I was very new and knew next to nothing about HDB deals, yet were still willing to allow me to transact for them. Many have turned friends of almost a decade and we have progressed together, seeing each other grow,” he says with a smile. “It was their assurance and patience in letting me learn the ropes of doing HDB sales transactions that eventually gave me the confidence to continue in the residential market segment and to propel my growth.”

Ace achiever

While Ang has extensive expertise in various commercial properties, he has specialised in brokering units at Paya Lebar Square. Since 2012, he has handled over 400 transactions at this 99-year leasehold property in the East, establishing himself as the go-to realtor for this location.

He remembers that rental and sales transactions at the development were highly competitive, especially after receiving the temporary occupation permit. However, his in-depth knowledge of the area, strategic positioning and unique marketing strategies allowed him to close deals more quickly than others.

Since then, he has established a strong presence and reputation at Paya Lebar Square, an achievement in which he takes great pride.

Ang receiving the 10 Year Ambassador at the PropNex Mid Year Convention 2023 from Ismail Gafoor, CEO of PropNex Singapore. (Photo: Ethan Ang)

His success in this niche market highlights his deep understanding of commercial real estate. He estimates that about 60% of his transactions are commercial properties, while around 40% are residential.

Learn, lead, excel

As Ang continues to build his legacy in the real estate industry, he is keen to share his knowledge with aspiring agents to help them realise their full potential. His desire to mentor others stems from his early experiences as a new agent. During his early career, he faced a lack of guidance and numerous challenges, such as solving difficult cases and dealing with a shortage of leads, which nearly led him to give up.

However, his determination and positive “can do it” attitude wouldn’t let him quit. “I constantly kept reminding myself of why I chose to embark on this journey in the real estate industry in the first place. There will always be a lot of challenges being a realtor and how fast I stand up after a hurdle is crucial to overcoming the odds,” Ang adds.

Ang conducting training on the commercial and industrial property segment. (Photo: Ethan Ang)

Being a realtor can be physically and emotionally draining, especially with challenging cases. Although the hours are flexible, they often involve long days that may require sacrificing family time and missing important events to meet client’s needs, particularly when facing tight deadlines.

While challenges are inevitable, he believes a good mentor can help make the journey for mentees easier to handle and better. He says: “I do not wish to see my mentees go through the hard knocks I had in the past. I will want them to have a shorter route to success and I also believe we will go to greater heights together as a team.”

He advises aspiring agents to invest in themselves by maintaining an open mindset and continually learning and acquiring new skills. Ang adds: “At the end of the day, real estate is a people’s business that goes beyond transactions. Realtors should serve with a mindset of excellence and demonstrate integrity when dealing with the properties entrusted to them. I’m a strong believer in being the one to make a lasting positive impact for your clients and improve their lives through real estate.”