MARIA Selleck, director of Maria Selleck Properties, started her business in 2009 to combine a love of real estate and a love of helping people.

“My prime focus has never been about making money,” says Maria.

“My motivation is to make a positive contribution, to raise the bar and to make a difference and this driving force has been squarely focused on my providing the best possible service to my clients.”

Maria says establishing her brand and a reputation in what was then a male dominated real estate industry was no easy feat – taking time as well as both hard and “smart work”.

“As with many new businesses, I have to confess that I have had my share of heartaches and disappointments, and it was a steep learning curve especially in the early years,” she says.

“With the help of my wonderful team, I did get through all of this, but I have learnt a lot during the last 12 years since starting my own business.”

Now, Maria says 95 per cent of her business comprises repeat business and referrals by happy clients, something she’s incredibly proud of.

“Many of my clients have not only become clients for life but also very good friends,” she says.

“Me and my business strive to achieve the best possible outcome with the least possible stress for them.”

Maria Selleck Properties, 30 Bougainville Street, Manuka. Call 6162 1234, visit mariaselleck.com.au or email info@mariaselleck.com.au