It was the year 2007 when I first met a gentle man called Vincent Agaba, a man who would go on to revolutionize the real estate sector in Uganda. At that time, Vincent had recently established a property management company called Avarts Housing Limited. Their office was located on Plot 66 Kenneth Dale Drive in Kamwokya, before later relocating to Embassy Plaza along Ggaba Road. Meanwhile, I had just also recently launched the Real Estate Database (RED) and was seeking established agencies to join and list their properties on the new platform.
One day, while moving along Kira Road, I noticed the Avarts signpost and decided to pay them a visit. I was eager to meet the people behind the company and see if we could strike a deal to join the RED. I sat down with Vincent and explained the concept of the RED. He was not only impressed but also mentioned that he was already familiar with a similar platform called Funda in the Netherlands, where he had studied International Business and Management. Vincent expressed his interest in being part of this idea. However, he mentioned that he was currently involved in an important process of collaborating with other industry players to establish an association that would bring order to the real estate agency business in Uganda.
A few weeks later, when I returned to Vincent's office, I was impressed to find that he had already set up a new office upstairs for the newly formed association, now known as the Association of Real Estate Agents (AREA-Uganda). Banners of AREA adorned the office, marking the birth of an organization that would play a pivotal role in shaping the real estate industry. Vincent became the first president of AREA, dedicating his time, energy, and personal finances to lay a solid foundation for the association alongside other pioneer members. I quickly realized that starting an association required immense dedication, sacrifice, and a passion for the cause.
By the time I joined the board of AREA Uganda, Vincent had already handed over to a new administration. Although I didn't have the opportunity to work closely with him, his groundwork provided a strong platform for subsequent board members, like myself, to contribute our efforts and ideas. To this day, AREA continues to thrive, with one of its key goals being the advocacy for a law regulating the real estate industry in Uganda.
Vincent Agaba boasts over 10 years of experience in the real estate sector. He is not only the Founder of AREA-Uganda but also served as its first President and CEO. Vincent has played a pivotal role in shaping real estate legislation in Uganda, including the formulation of the National Housing Policy and the Real Estate Agents Bill. He has been a staunch advocate for the registration and training of real estate agents, promoting professionalism within the industry.
As the Managing Director of Avarts Housing Ltd, Vincent has overseen the marketing and operations departments. His expertise extends to handling complex negotiations between landlords and tenants, as well as leading feasibility studies for both commercial and residential properties. Vincent's contributions have also extended beyond his own company. He serves as one of the Directors of the Real Estate Institute of East Africa (REIEA), offering valuable insights into the institute's course content and direction. Additionally, he frequently visits Makerere University Business School (MUBS) as a guest speaker, particularly for the Real Estate Management Bachelor Degree Program, which he helped design.
Vincent Agaba is highly regarded in the field of real estate. He has provided training on various topics, combining his practical experience with theoretical knowledge. Notably, he has offered consultancy services to esteemed organizations such as the International Housing Coalition Global USA and Shore Bank International.
Vincent's educational background includes a Degree in Business Administration and Management from Uganda Martyrs University, as well as a Degree in International Business and Management from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. He has obtained professional certificates in Housing Finance, Real Estate Management, Real Estate Brokerage Management, and Trainer of Trainers. Vincent's dedication to continuous learning and growth is evident in his commitment to his profession.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Vincent Agaba is a Member of Rotary International, actively participating in initiatives aimed at creating positive change within communities. His influence extends to various organizations, including his role as the Resident Technical Advisor for Uganda for the International Housing Coalition (IHC) Global and as a Member of the Executive Committee of the Uganda National Urban Forum (UNUF), representing Professional Bodies. Additionally, Vincent serves as the Secretary of the Board of Rena Foundation Uganda, an NGO that provides education and health services while promoting tourism around Lake George.
Vincent Agaba's remarkable journey in the real estate industry of Uganda is a testament to his unwavering passion, relentless dedication, positive energy and visionary leadership. From founding the Association of Real Estate Agents (AREA-Uganda) to advocating for industry regulations and shaping real estate legislation, Vincent will leave an indelible mark on the sector. With his extensive experience, expertise, and commitment to professionalism, he has not only transformed the way real estate agencies operate but has also contributed to the development of education, training, and community initiatives. Vincent Agaba's impact and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come in the exciting realm of real estate.
Kind Regards
Julius Czar
Author: Julius Czar
Company: Zillion Technologies Ltd
Mobile: +256705162000 / +256788162000
Email: Julius@RealEstateDatabase.net
Website: www.RealEstateDatabase.net
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