The National Federation of Estate Agents (Fnaim) is a big house. The Var delegation, one of the most active in France. David Garavagno, its president, begins his second mandate, placed under the sign of the training of young people. It deciphers the (successful) environment of real estate professionals in a territory that is still highly sought after. And gives us his tips for buying well (or selling well).
They say that when real estate goes, everything goes. It’s always like that?
Yes, the economic situation is good in the Var, in particular in the TPM metropolis where real estate is solid. But, for all that, we must not rest on our laurels. The profession of real estate agent is evolving and customer expectations are changing. Everything is going very fast today. It is therefore necessary to constantly adapt. This is why, at the head of the Fnaim du Var, I insist a lot on this priority for training all the time!
How have clients and professionals changed?
People looking for real estate today are more in a hurry. They have more means of information and compare more. But, despite this all-powerful digitization of the Internet, trust in a professional remains essential. This is why real estate advisers must have three key qualities: being available, concrete and empathetic.
How is the Fnaim du Var doing?
Very well. We federate 400 agencies and are the first department in number of training days. The Fnaim du Var represents 120 million in turnover and 2,700 direct jobs. Next year, we will celebrate the 100 years of existence of the Fnaim. With pride. For my part, I clearly separate my job as a real estate adviser from my responsibilities at Fnaim. Do not mix professional activities and union involvement, it is essential! Today, I am an exception to the rule to answer your questions but, on a daily basis, the border is intangible.
Has the war in Ukraine impacted the market?
Not really. Our real estate is little affected by possible consequences, with the exception of a few houses belonging to Russians in Saint-Tropez or Bandol. The general economic situation remains good as interest rates are still attractive and inflation is under control. On the other hand, if everything takes off, the market could turn around very quickly.
So what do you recommend to us to make good investments?
Do not look at all costs for good investments! (laughs) We often complain here that real estate is expensive. But waiting to buy does not solve the problem. In truth, the best time to sell or buy a property is when you have decided it yourself.
And where is it better to invest in the Metropolis?
Everywhere. The TPM territory is large enough to satisfy all audiences. Investing in student apartments in Toulon near Chalucet (a booming district) can be a good deal. Acquiring land is still a safe bet to build your main residence there. Buying by the sea also remains a profitable operation. I usually say that the Metropolis is the California of Europe. I check it every day.
And on the real estate agent side, our territory is still a source of employment?
Absoutely. Our profession gives a large place to young people who, with a bac+2 or bac+3, can succeed. The profession is also becoming more feminized. In my team, they are the majority: eight women for fourteen employees.
When we think of real estate, we necessarily think of Stéphane Plaza. Has it done any good for the industry?
I would say… “yes”! Both no and yes (smile). Yes, because it has made our profession enjoyable. And no because it sometimes gives the impression that it’s easy. However, it is necessary to master the technical, legal and commercial aspects at the same time. Unlike television, everyday real estate is not a show! It’s more complex.
With the Internet, aren’t you worried that customers will end up going without agencies?
No. About 70% of transactions are still done through an agency, compared to 50% a few years ago. Individuals need a natural person to guide them, have their property valued… Complain too! We always offer a guarantee. It’s the same for the Fnaim vis-à-vis the professionals. Our federation is both a union and a community that allows us to face competition, the risks inherent in the practice… Basically, the Fnaim allows us not to be isolated. It is security at all times.
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