Cassandra Mason is an expert in her field, and she trusts her super to experts
When we last spoke to long-standing REI Super member Cassandra Mason, she was running a successful real estate consulting and trust accounting firm in Perth. Not long after, she had an opportunity to join Arena Real Estate Agents, but has continued providing property management training through REIWA.
It's a lot to juggle, but Cassandra finds the diversity of her work exhilarating.
“My team are a highlight of my day and an absolute pleasure to work with. It’s also immensely satisfying to assist clients, not just with their immediate need to find a tenant or a property to live in, but to work towards the long-term goals they want to achieve.”
Planning for the future
As for her own long-term goals, Cassandra worked towards purchasing a larger home to suit her now family of four, as well as keeping her original home as an investment property. Overseas trips to spend Christmas with family in the UK were highlights, but she always kept an eye on her future.
“Like almost anyone, I want certainty in my life, so I’m setting myself up for the future. Superannuation guarantee payments are fantastic. When I was self-employed, however, I relied on voluntary contributions to prepare for retirement.”
Investment fluctuations
In a turbulent year for investment markets, Cassandra has stayed the course.
“Because I'm in property, I realise that it's unlikely that you’re going to make huge money in the short-term. For me super, like property, is a long-term investment. Sometimes you do have to ride out the downturns of investment markets. When I started in real estate and my first employer asked me where I wanted my super, my immediate reaction was ‘my industry fund.’ My clients trust me as an expert in my field, I trust REI Super to invest my money safely. They know what they're talking about.”
Having financial advisors just a phone call away also gives Cassandra peace of mind.
“As much as I love my job, I don’t really want to work until I’m 70; I’d be much happier putting my feet up in my mid-50s, I think. It’s great that the fund can put me on to a financial advisor for no additional fee. They’re offering members the tools to take an active role in their super investment.”
Supporting the industry through advocacy
It’s this same empowerment that Cassandra feels REIWA offers its members.
“REIWA work in heavy consultation with the state government in relation to any changes or effects on the industry. The training and support that it offers its members is second to none. If a member needs advice, the customer engagement line is always available to them. And when COVID hit us, they did not hesitate to support their members’ interests, all while pausing membership fees.”
“Some of the industry changes, though, have been for the better. I think that employers have realised that employees can work effectively from home. Even though we’ve been back in the office for four months, there is still greater work-life balance, which everyone can appreciate.”
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