Sotheby's in Port Alfred welcomes new owner

De Bruin was welcomed officially by Gavin Kelsey, chief operations officer from the Johannesburg head office of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty, who visited the franchise. Kelsey briefly spoke to the staff about the changes and gave them a few words of encouragement.

"I know a lot has happened since I have been here last year September, it's been tough but I must say you guys are such a great team to work with, and you guys have been amazing even without a leader. I am glad to announce that the company is taking a new direction. We are going to need all your energy, so forward we go," Kelsey said.

He gave De Bruin time to introduce himself so that the staff can get to know him better. De Bruin shared his sentiments about working at Sotheby's and joining the team. He said he was excited to work with such a vibrant team, who had been working under immense pressure since the previous owner died tragically in an accident.

De Bruin thanked long-time Sotheby's estate agent Heather Tyson for leading the team in the absence of a franchisee.

"We are very happy to work with people that have been without someone at the helm, but that didn't stop them from doing the best they can for the business, and I am extremely honoured to work with such a selfless team. We are looking forward to servicing the town specifically with sales, rentals and sectional title management," said De Bruin.