Beaumaris venture a homecoming for women’s property advocate

Nicole Payne has been a pioneer for women in the male-dominated industry of real estate for almost two decades. As the Bayside region's first female auctioneer, Mrs Payne is well qualified, having received 47 industry awards. She is now taking on a new challenge: the role of business owner at Ray White Beaumaris.

A regular host for charities auctions such as the Starlight Foundation, Mrs Payne said calling was her passion.

“It’s not as intimidating as some people might think, being the only female auctioneer in the area, I see it as a point of difference.”

Mrs Payne began her real estate career in her early 20's with Barry Plant and was soon recognised as a rising star, winning the award for best performance in her first year with the company.

“Starting out, I knew very quickly I had chosen the right profession. Everything just fell into place and I was going from strength to strength,” she said.

“One of the greatest milestones in my career was being named the number one female agent in Victoria multiple times in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 and again in 2010.”

Nicole joined the Ray White Ferntree Gully team in 2012, before moving into real estate corporate roles and finding herself back at Ray White working as a Business Development Executive in the Victorian corporate team.

“I believe in the Ray White brand. I've worked with a variety of different agencies over the years and none of them come close to the support, resources, training and technology that Ray White can offer,” she said.

“There wasn't a question in my mind which brand I would open my business with.”

Mrs Payne hoped her success in real estate could encourage other women to join the property industry.

“I want women to know that anything is achievable in real estate, as long as you have the drive and passion. It would be fantastic to see more women join the industry and I’ll be advocating for that,” she said.

Click here for a high res image of the team.