No Experience, No Problem: "I Came to Dubai with Nothing and Closed a $12M Deal in 3 Weeks"

In this week’s episode of Keys to the City, Recruitment Director Kameron Hutchinson is joined by Senior Sales Consultant Ben Streeton.

Join us as we explore Ben’s fascinating journey from a holiday in Dubai to becoming a successful real estate agent in just one year! Kam and Ben share the story of his unconventional career start, including interviewing in beachwear, his shift from lettings to sales, the challenges he faced within his first three months, and the vital role resilience played in his success.

Ben’s journey also highlights impressive milestones, including a $11.5 million property sale, and offers invaluable advice for anyone considering a career move into Dubai’s dynamic real estate market.

A Chance Beginning

Ben Streeton's move into real estate was anything but conventional. Arriving in Dubai on a holiday, he stumbled upon the decision to apply for real estate roles despite lacking formal experience in the field. Armed with courage and curiosity, Ben embraced the opportunity, turning what was a spontaneous decision into a thriving career. His unanticipated start in Dubai also saw him attending a job interview in beach wear, an experience he recounts with humour and gratitude.

The Path to Real Estate Success

Ben initially joined the lettings side of the industry, a decision he now considers crucial to his development. The experience provided him with invaluable exposure to client interactions, negotiations, and viewings. Reflecting on his journey, Ben emphasises how the early challenges in lettings equipped him with the skills and insights needed to excel in sales.

Navigating Challenges

Ben is candid about the challenges he faced along the way, noting that success in real estate requires resilience and a willingness to learn from mistakes. He recalls the emotional rollercoaster of almost losing significant deals and how these experiences taught him to better serve his clients by prioritising their needs over immediate commissions.

Crafting a Client-Centric Approach

One of the standout elements in Ben's success story is his commitment to creating exceptional client experiences. Understanding the individual needs of his high-net-worth clients, Ben goes above and beyond by facilitating lifestyle transitions, offering relocation advice, and ensuring seamless property transactions. This client-centric approach not only helps secure deals but also fosters long-term relationships built on trust and mutual respect.

The Role of Team

Ben attributes part of his success to the supportive environment at Allsopp & Allsopp, robust training and vibrant office culture. He values the brand's reputation and the camaraderie among colleagues, which have together provided a foundation for his professional growth and ambition

What’s to Come for Ben

As Ben continues to carve his path in Dubai's dynamic real estate landscape, his dedication to personal growth and client satisfaction remains evident. His future goals include further developing his personal brand, nurturing client relationships, and aiming for a leadership role within the company.

To Summarise

Ben Streeton's journey from corporate life in the UK to a successful real estate career in Dubai is a testament to the power of embracing change, learning continuously, and maintaining a strong client focus. His story is an inspiration to those considering a leap into new industries or geographies, underscoring that with the right mindset and dedication, success is always within reach.

For those interested in the Dubai real estate market please reach out to our experts now.

For the full Taking Care Of Business podcast episode head to our YouTube channel