In tribute to Craig Gunning of Orange Realty
Just over eighteen years ago, we were looking for a house that we could afford as two teachers who were going to be married. We had looked at what felt like hundreds of houses all over Jo’burg, and has almost lost hope as they were either too expensive if decent, or “had potential” (real estate …
Just over eighteen years ago, we were looking for a house that we could afford as two teachers who were going to be married.
We had looked at what felt like hundreds of houses all over Jo’burg, and has almost lost hope as they were either too expensive if decent, or “had potential” (real estate code for falling apart).
A friend suggested that we contact Craig Gunning in Alberton, who was at that stage a young estate agent, which we duly did. We gave him an almost impossible list of requirements and a very tight budget to work with. Within three weeks, Craig had found us three houses all within our budget that fitted all requirements on the list in Brackendowns.
Unfortunately none of our offers were accepted and we were devastated, but in his calm, professional manner he found us another house, which landed up to be our perfect house, and has become our home for over 18 years.
Craig not only forfeited half of his share of the commission because the house was mandated by another estate agent, but also managed the entire transaction, the legal procedure, transfers and all the complicated issues that go along with buying a house.
As newlyweds, we moved into a new home just after we were married with no hassles or issues or delays thanks to Craig’s excellent service and care.
Over the years Craig eventually started his own real estate agency, Orange Realty, with his well known handing out of oranges at the robot and stop streets in the area, as well as the colourful adverts that were dropped into our post boxes.
He often popped in to look at the alterations and additions we have made, and was almost as excited as we were as we grew and developed.
We have referred numerous buyers to him over the years, who have all been ecstatic with his service excellence, and he became known as an ethical, professional well-respected man within the community.
Unfortunately his life came to an early end a short while ago, and we know that we are not alone in offering sincere condolences to his wife Tracey and his family. He will be sorely missed within the Alberton community and he certainly made a real difference to the life of the people around him.
I was thrilled to hear that his wife Tracey will continue to run Orange Realty, and will be “GUNNING IT” in Craig’s honour. You go girl!!
Douglas and Lynn Holmes
