Real estate agent closes door on career

After almost 18 years in the local real estate industry, Activewest’s Mel Hovey has retired.

Ms Hovey moved to Geraldton in 1997 from Tauranga, New Zealand, after meeting her husband at the Burswood Casino in Perth while on holidays.

She owned a retail store in the North Island’s harbour city before taking on a property management role for four years.

This experience held her in good stead when she accepted a position with Kalazich Smith and Associates, which changed its name to Activewest in 2012.

She worked in property management for eight years before moving into sales.

“I loved it,” she said.

“Seeing people happy when they buy or sell a house is wonderful.

“It is a great feeling to help others.”

Ms Hovey will leave the industry with a cupboard full of trophies, and plans to spend her retirement playing bridge, bowls and travelling.

She said she wanted to thank all her past clients and Activewest for their support over the years.

Activewest principal Phil Sorgiovanni said Ms Hovey would be greatly missed.