How a designer’s eye built a real estate powerhouse

When you think you have created the perfect product or service, test against a number of scenarios (even the bad ones). That will help you determine if your idea is sustainable.

Kahlia Cordony

Kahlia Cordony’s journey into entrepreneurship started with a childhood fascination for design. 

From a young age, she found joy in envisioning ways to enhance her family’s home, always eager to explore new ideas and concepts. This passion only grew stronger as she pursued her studies in Architectural Technology, where she delved into the intricate world of drafting and design. However, it was a pivotal moment when her father suggested she explore the real estate industry while continuing her education.

Taking his advice to heart, Kahlia embarked on a journey that would shape her entrepreneurial path. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of property sales, Kahlia couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. She observed firsthand the struggles that clients faced in preparing their properties for the market.

From lackluster staging to disjointed project management, it became clear to Kahlia that there was a gap in the market—a gap that she was uniquely positioned to fill. Drawing upon her diverse experiences in real estate and design, Kahlia envisioned a new kind of consultancy—one that offered comprehensive solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Thus, Cordony Group was born.

Filling the gap

“My passion was always in design and growing up I would constantly ask my parents if I could make improvements on the house,  Kahlia recalls.

“Dad recommended that I find a job in real estate whilst I was studying Architectural Technology (drafting). He thought it was a good idea to see the ‘other side’ of property, i.e. owning, selling and managing. He was right, I did get to see the ‘other side’ and learnt everything you could know and experience in real estate. It wasn’t before long I was working in the sales division. My main role on Saturdays and Wednesdays was to take names and numbers at the door, speak to potential buyers about what they thought about the home and provide more information.

However, I was also reading their body language to measure their first impression of the home. I was also a part of the appraisal and listing process, so I knew what trades and recommendations the agents were giving to their clients. Unfortunately, our clients didn’t have a project manager to manage a timeline and contact list of trades, which meant we wouldn’t see the listing for another 1-2 months depending on the extent of the work. This also meant they missed the market in which the valuation was given. I just knew I could do all of this better – the product and the timeline in which a property could be refreshed and on the market.”

What sets Cordony Group apart is its comprehensive approach to property enhancement. “Cordony Group and our services are not limited to one type of client. Instead, our services and how we deliver them are customisable to what the client needs from us. We have since grown into the various divisions we currently have, and we continue to grow and expand organically to offer more products and services. I think it’s a combination of the above. We look at our client’s needs holistically and their journey end-to-end to understand what they need, want and how we can assist. We don’t just style or design or project manage, we do it all.”

Overcoming challenges

I have learnt that whilst you need to employ those to advise you in different areas of business, such as accounting, it’s important to stay true to yourself, trust your gut and keep your finger on the pulse

Of course, the road to success hasn’t always been smooth. Kahlia has faced her fair share of challenges and setbacks along the way.

“I believe I am learning every day. I make mistakes every day but I also win every day, both in business success and the lessons learnt. There is no growth, individually, spiritually or in business without mistakes and challenges to overcome. I believe last year was the hardest year of business

I have ever had to face but I learnt a lot (even though I am still cleaning up some areas). I have learnt that whilst you need to employ those to advise you in different areas of business, such as accounting, it’s important to stay true to yourself, trust your gut and keep your finger on the pulse – upskill and learn where possible until you feel comfortable knowing you have enough information to make educated decisions that align with your gut and principles.”

Leading with passion

Today, as the Founder and CEO of Cordony Group, Kahlia continues to lead with passion and purpose. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is this: follow your dreams, stay curious, and never stop learning.” If you dream about it and you can’t get it out of your head, you have to give it a go! Do the research, talk to people, and never stop striving and learning.

When you think you have created the perfect product or service, test against a number of scenarios (even the bad ones). That will help you determine if your idea is sustainable. Listen and be open to other people’s business stories and you’ll find you aren’t alone on what can seem to be a lonely journey. Surround yourself with like-minded people and learn to quickly adjust when something isn’t quite right.”

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