When Michael Ataman came to New Zealand seeking the freedom to explore new opportunities ten years ago, he left behind an auspicious career in Ukraine. For four years, he was a Captain in the army then went on to manage a huge state-owned engineering firm employing 500 people.

In 1990, Perestroika forged the way for free enterprise, which is how he came to establish his own hydraulic engineering business in the Ukraine. During the course of overseas travel, his eyes were opened and New Zealand beckoned, offering unlimited scope.

As soon as he arrived, this self-motivated, determined individual began retraining. His positive attitude and enthusiasm assured immediate employment that quickly advanced him on a course towards a new career path in real estate sales. Michael was absolutely sure the skill-set he’d gained in his professional background as well as the strengths of his personality gave him the perfect attributes to be highly successful in real estate.

He was right. He soon became a top achiever, winning a network of clients through his passion, professionalism, hard work and the ability to market properties in a creative way. In 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 Michael was the no. 1 salesperson for Barfoot & Thompson’s Meadowbank branch, an exceptional achievement in such a large, strong and competitive company. Key to the excellent results he achieves is his ability to close the deal. He is prepared to work hard to gain the best result possible for his clients – that is, the best price and the optimum conditions. By holding out for what he believes the property is worth, he consistently achieves over and above that of many other salespeople.

Michael has earned his reputation as a skilled negotiator with an ability to accurately interpret body language and use it to his advantage. Michael won’t give up until he has made the sale and rarely lists a property without selling it. In his office, they say “if Michael can’t sell a property, nobody can”. He’s the first to admit he can be “quite tough”, and he knows when to advise clients to hold out for a better deal if he believes it’s in their best interests.

It helps that he has a wicked sense of humor, which makes the selling process all the more enjoyable, easing the tension for both client and customers.

When it comes to giving advice, his clients appreciate his openness and honesty. For his track record precedes him. Clients recommend him, as they know they can trust him. It’s not surprising he gains a lot of repeat business and referrals.

Although he is dedicated to his work, Michael makes time for his wife Nina and their family. He has a son and daughter attending Auckland University. Michael was right behind his wife giving her his unswerving support while she trained as a doctor. Nina now works as part of Michaels team.

Testimonials

"Michael has been very proactive in the sale of our property in Meadowbank. Recently after Michael came knocking at our door after he had seen our private sale sign, we decided to give him a 2 week exclusive listing. Within the first week of the listing he had identified buyers and he had presented us with a contract a couple of days later. We appreciated Michael's hardworking, professional approach to achieve our sale. We would recommend Michael as a very successful, conscientious and proactive sales agent who works hard at achieving excellent results."

"..Throughout the whole process we found you (Michael) helpful, professional and dedicated to negotiating a suitable price for the property, you made the whole negotiation process quick and effortless. I was also impressed with the extra time and effort you put into assisting us with extending the settlement period and I felt that I could phone you at any time to ask for your assistance with any concerns."

"During the short time he had our property listed we found Michael to be very professional. Everything mentioned about our property was positive and never once did he lose faith in the potential of our house or the sale of our property. This letter comes as a high recommendation to anyone thinking of listing their property with Michael. You can be assured of honesty and hard work from Michael and of course a sale!

Could you directly pass on my thanks for Michael Ataman, as he did a wonderful job in selling our home. We found him to be professional and courteous in every aspect. I would like to thank him for his co-operation and attitude-it was more than acceptable."

"..this year sees you identified as the #1 salesperson in our Meadowbank Branch, an exceptional achievement in such a large, strong and competitive company." Wendy Alexander AREINZ