KNYSNA PROPERTY NEWS - "The greatest reward of a 40-year legacy is seeing the spirit of Pam in each and every one of our extraordinary people. A legacy at your service," said chief executive of Pam Golding South Africa, Andrew Golding.
He said this at the time the company launched the "I am Pam" campaign, which personalises each and every one of their agents.
In an emotive and unique, integrated TV campaign, which breaks the mould for the real estate industry in South Africa, the company has taken the bold move of focusing consumer attention on those at the very rock face – their agents – who are committed to upholding the very same values as Pam herself.
Each of the agents from around the country who are featured in the advertisement in their own environment – from urban cities to the coast or the Winelands – stakes his or her claim with pride: “I am Pam”.
Ling Dobson is principal dealer and franchisee of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay Pam Golding, and as such is an "I am Pam", and proud to be one, along with her team members who are also "Pams".
Knysna and Plettenberg Bay have a team of 17 strong and dynamic residential and rental agents – all "I am Pams".
Who is Ling
Asked to describe herself in a personal way, Dobson said, "I am Ling Dobson. • I am Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
• I am the awe-inspiring views over beaches, mountains, rivers and lagoon.
• I am quiet moments with feet in the sand.
• I am chilled Cap Classique at a choice of Garden Route wine estates, or a cuppa at one of the recently world's best voted restaurant, Easthead Cafe."
Dobson has a passion that she shares with her team, for the Knysna and Plettenberg Bay areas.
For the last 15 years in this area, Dobson has been following her heart. "Helping a buyer find a place that makes you happy, is what I am all about," says Dobson.
"I love this profession, it is dynamic and exciting. Working for Pam Golding Properties (PGP) keeps me motivated, informed and proud of being a PGP team player.
"I love the people I meet, and I love the challenge of finding clients their perfect spot in the sun.”
Dobson worked as an agent for PGP and was so enamoured with what this areas has to offer that she bought the Pam Golding Properties Knysna franchise in 2009, and added Plettenberg Bay in 2013.
"I have journeyed through the university of life travelling and working extensively abroad in different walks of life.
I would like to think that I am known in the Knysna/Plett marketplace as a highly successful and motivated agent, with a few gems such as the sale of one of the Noetzie castles as well as some plum properties on Pezula Golf and Pezula Private Estates," says Dobson.
She achieved GoldClub status within the organisation in her second second year and has successfully maintained that status, even with the added responsibility of managing the business.
"When I am not engrossed in property, I walk, read, travel and enjoy entertaining. I believe that having lived and experienced so many different walks of life such as working for myself, having sales and marketing, manufacturing, public relations and even in the cosmetics and travel industries, gives one the perspective and insight to know and understand the human psyche, to have empathy and know how to listen,” says Dobson.
"We have made a mark!
Our Delicious Word Journey and Fate of the Nation panel discussion at the Literary Festival have become top event sellers," explains Dobson, who is passionate about giving back to the community.
Growth of the area
From being a small town 15 years ago, Knysna has grown yet retained its quirkiness and popularity along with Plettenberg Bay as one of South Africa's most sought-after holiday destinations, says Dobson.
"We have grown our real value with sporting activities and attractions from festivals to schools, top medical facilities and business connectivity opportunities. We appeal to just such a wide spectrum – family, sport, lifestyle, good restaurants and exciting festivals. Who would have thought that the Plett area would become so well-known for offering some of the best bubblies in the country?"
"A good property is different things to different people, whether you are you looking for the ideal home for relocating your family, maybe close to schools with enough accommodation, or for those who wish to retire and for those who are looking for that very special holiday home and investment – each person has their unique needs and taste."
Dobson says the one commonality is the view, which is always paramount in decision making when it comes to a house.
"And we are just so, so spoilt for choices. Because so many clients are 'semi-grating' from the cities, they are demanding of security, thus favouring all estates Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offer with different options and at different levels."
According to Dobson: "We are seeing younger families from Europe looking to relocate, and incorporating the viewing of schools along with properties. While so many South African families have been relocating to the Western Province, we are also seeing a keen interest in the Garden Route in our schools and sporting facilities."
"Being professional; knowing the market, knowing the stock, recent sales, actual market values, market trends and value statistics and, very importantly, being able to match/marry client with perfect home. Attention to what a client really wants and a personal touch is what 'Pams' offer," says Dobson.
Her franchise was honoured this year to bring home the 5 Star Gold Best in Africa accolade from the International Property Awards. They were also awarded Best Real Estate Agency, Best Real Estate Marketing and Best Real Estate Website.
"So yes, I am proudly Pam and proud of my Pams," concludes Dobson.
ARTICLE: ELAINE KING, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD EDITOR
'We bring you the latest Knysna, Garden Route news'
