Kay & Burton partner Andrew Sahhar: A fan of global architecture

From early exposure to family property developments, then a degree in construction, a career in project management, and a passion for architecture around the world, Andrew Sahhar has been in the property trade in some shape or form for most of his life – and he’ll secure a deal anywhere, anytime. Sahhar became a partner at Kay & Burton in December.

Are you from Melbourne?

Yes, I grew up in Stonnington and went to Scotch College for 12 years. I then went to RMIT and did construction management – it was a four-year course in applied science.

Did you work while you were at uni and what did you learn?

Yes, my first job was at a clothing shop called Poloman in Hawthorn. The owner was an amazing salesman; so for me, it was about learning how to sell. If someone bought the shirt, it would be about selling them a tie or the cufflinks to go with it. A lot of people don’t know what they want.

Where were you headed with your construction management degree?

I always wanted to be a developer. My first job out of uni was as an estimator – doing all the pricing on projects. Then I was project co-ordinator for Hooker Cockram, an international company. It involved co-ordinating the sub-contractors.

After all that, domestic renovation must be easy for you – have you ever done it?

I have bought quite a few properties, renovated them and leased them out. Architecture and design are two of my passions. I focus on what I can add value to.

Does your interest in property stem from your family?

My dad is a dentist but, when I was growing up, he did developments on the side with his brother who was a doctor. And I used to go to the developments with my father and found it very interesting. I have always loved architecture and interior design. I remember at school I did year 10 American history – and we did a history trip to the US and saw some of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work.

You entered real estate at 26 – how was the first year?

I actually loved it; I’ve always loved property. My first sale at 26 was after two months in the business, I sold a property for $6 million.

Did you have a strong network when you began?

Not really. It takes time – three years or so – before you build up a database. Over the past 12 years, my network has built and a lot of my business now is repeat business.

What do you do outside work?

I do love travelling, particularly to Spain and Italy. I love Barcelona for Gaudi’s architecture and I love Italian architecture. Another thing we do love doing, when I have time off, is to get away and go down to Red Hill or Lorne. Rob Mills, the architect, is a friend of mine and we often stay at his amazing Ocean House in Lorne.

How do you deal with the time demands of real estate?

I think my friends and family understand. The majority of deals are done after hours – I’ve done deals in the middle of the night. If someone is keen to make an offer, you need to be there.

What is your most unusual sale?

Just recently I was at the MCG one Saturday and I got an offer at three-quarter-time from a buyer outside gate 2. It was the Bombers versus the Brisbane Lions. The buyer was going out that night, so I met them at three-quarter time. I went to the MCG with a contract. Negotiations went late into the night and it was sold later that evening.