George is an expert in conveyancing and property law, co-founding QLD-based firm Empire Legal with his business partner Abi Wright. Dedicated to ensuring that property investing becomes more accessible, George has made it his mission to provide a service where their clients are well informed of their options, and are able to have a stress-free experience when dealing with property law. Below we sat down with George to learn more about his journey so far.
Q. What inspired you to become a property lawyer?
George: My mum is a property lawyer – she has operated her practice from home for over 30 years (before it was normal to work from home). I would hear as a kid her talking to clients, agents, and bankers/brokers about conveyancing and property law. Maybe it was osmosis?
Q. What was your biggest startup challenge and how did you overcome it?
George: Learning to let go of running all the property matters myself. It took a while to be OK with the fact that whilst the referral partners wanted to deal with me directly; the journey for the client is genuinely better when they deal with a dedicated conveyancing filehandler, not me as the Director (being pulled in 100 different directions and not always available to speak to/help clients immediately).
Q. What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to someone buying their first home?
George: Make sure you speak with your lawyer BEFORE you sign ANYTHING. We are here to help you, and it is a part of the service we provide – to make sure your interests are protected and that you are making fully informed decisions that you are comfortable with!
Q. What is one of the best or most worthwhile property investments you’ve ever made?
George: I fluked buying a house in Brisbane two months before COVID 19 started, which turned out to be amazing for capital growth!
Q. Who are your mentors and inspiration? and what knowledge or insight did they give to you that was valuable?
George: My parents are my biggest mentors and inspiration. They have always worked incredibly hard to ensure me and my siblings have had the best upbringing possible. They taught me to work ethic, how to save money, and family values – basically all the things that have led me to the position I am in today.
Q. What is your biggest piece of advice for running a business?
George: Do not think you are bulletproof and that you can do everything. Lean on your team and understand that it is OK to be a human and not a robot – we need balance to offset the relentless hard work – i.e rest, fun and play in our lives.
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