Sage Advice with Sun & Sage
Kathy Wise is the founder of Sun & Sage Real Estate – a boutique agency bringing a warm approach and fresh perspective to Sunshine Beach and beyond. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer chats to Kathy about her unique approach, going the extra mile for clients, and the words she lives by…
In a sea of local real estate agents, what makes you stand out?
I always aim to bring an honest, natural and straightforward approach to everything I do.
What’s your background?
My background is very diverse, and includes property development, buyers advocacy, and interior design, all of which are very useful!
I also have personal development qualifications and a Counselling Diploma, which really helps me understand the perspectives of both vendors and buyers – something that’s vital in my role.
What’s your approach when it comes to selling property?
It’s all about creating the best strategy and the ideal platform to market a property effectively, in order to sell for the highest price achievable. I stay focused on the client’s end goal from start to finish, making sure every step is aligned with their success.
What impact can expert styling have on a property sale?
Styling is a valuable and powerful marketing tool. It can be instrumental in the buyers emotionally connecting with a property by allowing them to visualise living in the space. This often leads to a faster sale and higher price tag.
I’m a big advocate, even if it’s just working with a client’s own furniture!
Why is taking the time to truly listen to a seller so important?
When you listen carefully, you understand what truly matters to the seller – and that insight allows you to tailor a strategy that aligns with their goals. As the expert, it is also my role to guide and inform them on the most effective marketing approach.
How do you go the extra mile for clients?
In lots of ways – whether it’s bringing in trades and services (including my man with a van), rolling up my sleeves, or thinking creatively to solve challenges.
I like being pre-emptive and committed to making the entire process as smooth and successful as possible for everyone involved!
Why do you think you have so many repeat clients?
Because my clients know I genuinely care – both about people and about property. I communicate openly and honestly, and I always go above and beyond to deliver a successful outcome.
What’s some sage advice about the real estate market in Sunshine Beach and surrounding suburbs?
Every area has its own unique vibe and appeal, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for in terms of lifestyle, livability, return on investment, views, community feel, access and more.
I love Sunshine Beach for the village; Sunrise Beach for the family feel and The Perch where locals view the waves; Castaways for the immersion in nature; and Noosaville for observing life by the river. Which speaks to you?
What’s your favourite way to relax when you’re not working?
I love to head to the beach, walk the National Park and soak in the simple pleasures of where we live.
And of course, supporting local businesses with a little wining and dining never hurts!
What words do you live by?
“Your purpose is not the thing you do. It is the thing that happens in others when
you do what you do” – Dr Caroline Leaf.
What do you love most about being a real estate agent?
I love working with both property and people – there’s so much joy in helping a client’s life dream come true through property!
I’m a change management agent, exposing a property to its highest potential for the best benefit of the
client, and I love every moment of it.
SUNSHINE BEACH PROPERTY STATS
- Sunshine Beach’s property market remains robust, with 36 house sales recorded in the past 12 months.
- The current median sale price for houses is a solid $2.44 million,
reflecting a positive suburb growth of +1.6% compared to the previous year’s median of $2.40 million. - Kathy said: “This sustained appreciation underscores the enduring appeal of this desirable coastal location, and Noosa in general.”
