My Neighbourhood with Renee Reynolds
Teleisha Thomas
May 2025
Driven by passion, performance, and a deep commitment to her clients, Jellis Craig Geelong Director, Renee Reynolds, has built one of Geelong’s most respected property management agencies. With over 25 years in the industry, a string of prestigious awards, and her former role as a Director of the REIV, Renee has helped shape the future of property management in regional Victoria.
We sat down with Renee to hear more about her journey, the milestones that shaped her business, and her favourite local spots around Geelong.
You have been at the forefront of property management for ove 25 years. What initially drew you to the real estate industry?
Prior to working in real estate, I was a professional ballroom dancer. We travelled extensively, competing around the world and teaching. I was always aware that an injury could impact my dancing career, so my dance partner and I decided to purchase an investment property to start building equity and financial security. Instead of engaging a property manager, I decided to take it on myself — advertising for a tenant, drawing up the lease agreement, and completing the condition report. I found I really enjoyed the process, which ultimately led me to complete my Agent’s Representative Certificate and pursue a career in Proper ty Management.
You have built one of Geelong’s most respected property management agencies. What were some of the key milestones or turning points along that journey?
There have been many turning points and milestones along the way, and it’s incredibly rewarding to reflect on them. I still remember the moment we celebrated managing our first 100 proper ties, just six or seven months after opening our doors. Our growth came organically through word of mouth and our new clients supported us and referred their friends and families. We’ve continued to celebrate each milestone along the way, and supporting team members who have gone on to open their own agencies. It’s been a truly rewarding experience — not just for me, but for many of my staff who have been part of our journey.
As a past Director of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV), what does it mean to you personally to contribute to the broader industry?
I have been an advocate of the REIV over the years and sitting on the board as a Director was a huge achievement. Our industry has changed so much over the years and particularly in Victoria it’s been very challenging, so to be able to voice our industry concerns at a board level and to continue leading the industry at the Institute was very rewarding.
How do you approach maximising investment returns for your clients, especially in today’s market?
We like to get to know what our clients long term goals are with their investment portfolios. Every client is different and once we know what their investment objectives are, we can then create strategies with them that include diversification, tax efficiencies, due diligence and risk management.
You have won numerous awards across property management, real estate, and business. Which achievement stands out most to you, and why?
In 2014, my office won the REIV’s Small Residential Agency of the Year award. At the time, we were a property management only agency based in a regional location. We didn’t sell property, so to be recognised on a national level, competing against full-service agencies across Australia, was a huge personal achievement.
We also won the small business category at the Geelong Business Excellence Awards in 2013, and then the medium business category in 2016. These awards attract hundreds of local businesses, so to be recognised in both categories was an incredible accolade for my team. These achievements I will always remember so fondly.
Tell us about your ambition for joining the Jellis Craig Group and your plans for the future.
As we began selling more of our clients’ properties, it made sense to add a sales division. I wanted to align with a trusted, premium brand, and had always admired Jellis Craig for their results and marketing. Rebranding as Jellis Craig Geelong was the perfect fit. Supporting our growth strategy and allowing us to offer clients both exceptional property management and a premium sales service unique to our region.
It’s been a truly rewarding experience — not just for me, but for many of my staff who have been part of our journey.
What do you like to do on the weekends in Geelong and surrounds?
Weekends are spent with family and friends, enjoying one of the local wineries in the Bellarine, watching the Cats play or cooking up a storm at home and entertaining.
With a mind as active as mine, it does take a little to switch off. However, I do love a massage to relax and unwind. I don’t mind a hit of golf and I still enjoy kicking my heels up on the dance floor.
If you had family visiting from Melbourne or interstate, where would you take them for;
Coffee – Poco Café Expres in Pakington Street
Activity – A day trip down the surf coast, stopping in at A La Grecque and the Chocolaterie
Lunch – Jack Rabbit is a lovely meal with a great view
Dinner – Emerge is a favourite of mine
Contact Renee to discuss your investment goals in Geelong.
