Q&A: Simon Cohen, Cohen Handler
In this exclusive Q&A, Smart Property Investment speaks to director and co-founder of Cohen Handler, Simon Cohen.
The real estate expert and co-host of The Reason podcast shares the backstory behind Cohen Handler, trends for investors to look out for, and how the buyers agency can offer a key point of difference.
SPI: For our readers who aren’t aware, tell us about the origin of Cohen Handler and what it brings to the Australian market?
SC: Started over a decade ago and during the global financial crisis. Surviving that and becoming the leading buyer’s sgency in Australia means we bring intricate experience and trust to the market.
SPI: How has Cohen Handler grown since it was first established?
SC: We now have offices in Brisbane and Melbourne.
SPI: What is Cohen Handler’s core offering to investors and how has that changed over time?
SC: The ability to utilise a strategy [to] access unique properties in different locations. We can adapt to any changing market; therefore, we are presented with great investing opportunities all the time.
SPI: What is Cohen Handler’s key point of difference in comparison to other buyer’s agencies in the Australian market?
SC: We can access more off-market properties than any other agency. Our team share knowledge; therefore, we share our stock and expertise across three offices, giving our clients more chance of successfully purchasing.
We are industry leaders, and our agents have more than five years+ [experience] as a buyer’s agent, making them very strong in their chosen areas.
SPI: Generally speaking, what are some of the major trends impacting Australian real estate at the moment?
SC: Auction attendance, interest rate cuts, location and lifestyle.
SPI: What are some challenges investors are facing and how can Cohen Handler help?
SC: Entering into new markets, investing in a commercial property [while] being geographically restricted.
We have a commercial division full-time that have assisted in small and large purchases in all our main offices nationally.
We are able to source the best-suited properties and work out the statistics on each to ensure the numbers stack up.
We assist in wealth creation also, and with our agents having represented their areas, are able to foresee good opportunities in various locations.
SPI: Conversely, what are some opportunities being presented to investors in the current climate?
SC: Price-reduced stock, in a nutshell. The rest of the success also is connecting with the selling agent well and negotiating an ultimate price.
SPI: Going forward, what are the primary goals Cohen Handler has for the next six to 12 months and how does it intend on achieving those goals?
SC: To remain the leaders, to be top of mind, to ensure that the main message to our audience is that we are available, can buy for them almost anywhere and will get them the best results.
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