Hello,  I am Marco Van Der Linde

I've been working at Realtors International Strand for the past three years and am a full-status real estate agent, having completed my NQF 4 in Real Estate and successfully passed the PDE 4 exam in 2024.  My journey into real estate began with the inspiration of my mother (Natasja Le Roux), who has been with the same company for over 19 years.  Working with her has not only been a privilege but also an educational experience, allowing me to grow personally and professionally under her guidance.

My interest in real estate is rooted in my passion for face-to-face client engagement—a preference that complements my visual condition.  I was diagnosed at the age of 9 with Stargardt's Macular Degeneration, a genetic eye condition.  While many may view this as a limitation, I consider it a source of strength.  It has motivated me to work harder and become more resilient in both my personal and professional life. I see my disability not as an obstacle, but as a reason to push boundaries and exceed expectations.

Where will you find me?

I currently operate across the Helderberg region (Strand, Somerset West, and Gordons Bay), handling both sales and rentals, although I am always open to assisting clients wherever I can.  I believe in a hands-on, flexible approach, offering support and guidance from the first consultation through to the final transaction.  My goal is to deliver exceptional client service by maintaining consistent communication, being readily available to address any questions, and ensuring that my clients feel confident throughout the entire buying or selling process.

One of the key moments in my career so far has been achieving full-status agent accreditation, a milestone I'm very proud of.  Looking ahead, I have the ambition to pursue my NQF 5 and PDE 5 qualifications to one day become a principal.  Client feedback and gratitude have also been rewarding highlights of my journey - there is nothing more fulfilling than a satisfied client who feels genuinely cared for.

When it comes to my work philosophy, I believe in honesty, transparency, and prioritizing the client's needs above all else.  While the phrase "the client is always right" is more theoretical in practice, I strive to ensure that every client is happy with the service they receive. I treat every transaction with the same dedication and energy, regardless of property value or location.

When I am not working....

Outside of real estate, I am deeply passionate about sports, which has helped me tremendously in dealing with the challenges of my disability.  I've represented Boland in athletics and earned South African colours, which led to me competing in the Zone 6 Games in Zambia, where I won a silver medal in the 800m event.  My involvement in Blind Cricket is another essential part of my life.  I've played for Boland, Northerns, and Western Province, and was selected to represent South Africa (Proteas) in the Blind Cricket World Cup in 2014 in South Africa and 2017 in India.

I enjoy living and working in the Strand and coastal regions, where the lifestyle and community atmosphere are very special to me.  The people are warm, and the seaside setting makes it an attractive place for both locals and potential buyers.

One thing people often find surprising is how well I connect with clients despite my eyesight condition.  I believe that my lived experience helps me approach people with empathy, patience, and understanding, which makes it easier to build trust.

When offering advice to sellers, I always recommend:

• Pricing is realistically based on current market rates.
• Presenting the home in its best light - first impressions matter.
• Being flexible and open to negotiations.
• Partnering with an experienced agent who understands the area and market dynamics

For buyers, my key tips include:

• Getting pre-approved for financing before house hunting.
• Looking below your maximum affordability to allow for market fluctuations.
• Focusing on value factors like location, growth potential, and security.
• Being prepared to negotiate, especially in a buyer's market.

Finally, what I enjoy most about working with Realtors International Strand is the team dynamic and culture.  The people around me have been instrumental in shaping my growth and confidence.  Their support has helped me become the best version of myself in both my personal and professional life.  I am excited to continue growing within the company and industry, and I look forward to achieving even greater milestones in the years to come.