Challenges and rewards: Fernanda Hammett

Fernanda Hammett was just 17 when she left her friends and family in San Paulo, bound for Christchurch, New Zealand. English was not her first language and she knew few people beyond her homestay family.

It was a tough time. Her positive ‘can-do’ attitude, engaging personality and competitive spirit saw her thrive. Not only did she master the language like a local, she met her life partner Josh.
Following many shared life experiences and adventures in Brazil and in New Zealand, the couple eventually settled in Christchurch and started a family. Shortly after they purchased their first home in Halswell, Josh suffered a workplace accident and underwent the first of eight back surgeries. It was a life-changing and challenging time for the parents of three young children.
Fernanda says, “Josh approached our local Harcourts real estate company. The timing was not right for him but he came home and said, “It’s the perfect job for you.” His faith in her capability – combined with her Mum’s unequivocal support – encouraged her to look into what
was involved.
“My mother was staying with us and she was so supportive. I knew it wouldn’t be easy but I decided to take up the challenge,” Fernanda says.
That positive attitude has seen Fernanda achieve huge success in the five years since she joined the Harcourts Grenadier office in Halswell.
Her clients have reaped the rewards as she has overcome many challenges to establish a successful business with the encouragement of her husband, children and wider whānau as she has won hearts and awards in pursuit of her passion.
Her drive, energy and genuine commitment to ensuring the best experience and outcome for her clients has seen her befriend many of the people she has assisted.

Top tips when looking to buy

• Go to an open home on a rainy day. That way you see the property at its worst.
• Transparent transactions are the best. Be sure that your vendor shares information relating to the property and that the agent knows everything relevant to the sale and purchase agreement.
• Work with one agent who you trust will work in your best interests to ensure you make the right decision.

Fernanda.hammett@harcourts.co.nz
021 029 05176
www.harcourts.net/nz/office/halswell