Natalie Williams went from business wipeout to opening a property investment agency in the Emirates.
From New Zealand to Dubai: Natalie Williams’ Journey in Global Property Investment
When Natalie Williams, a Kiwi entrepreneur, announced her plan to establish a real estate agency in Dubai focusing on residential developments for investors, many considered the idea ambitious. Undeterred, she launched Wealth Creators, aiming to offer investors from New Zealand and around the world opportunities in Dubai’s thriving property market.
Background Before Real Estate
Natalie holds a degree in communications with a major in public relations. She began her career in PR, eventually founding her own marketing, PR, and event planning agency. Beyond her professional endeavors, she served as a youth pastor and was deeply involved in community work, assisting at-risk youth. She initiated a suicide prevention program named “I’m Unbreakable,” which utilized hip hop—through a champion dance crew called Identity—to connect with young individuals, encouraging them to seek help during challenging times.
Having experienced personal struggles, including caring for her father during his battle with cancer, Natalie underwent therapy, emerging with a renewed perspective on life. This period fueled her desire to help others find hope and purpose.
Her agency flourished, generating over seven figures in revenue. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic led to the loss of her primary clients within 24 hours, effectively halting her business operations.
Transition During the Pandemic
In response to the pandemic’s challenges, Natalie pivoted to business coaching, leveraging her training as a Tony Robbins coach to assist others in navigating the crisis. Concurrently, family members involved in property and sales suggested she explore real estate, recognizing her skill set’s potential in the industry.
Embracing this new path, Natalie obtained her real estate license and joined Harcourts Cooper & Co, where she was mentored by Kristina Marmont. Partnering with former All Black Troy Flavell, they secured the listing for the Amaia development on Auckland’s North Shore, a project valued at $350 million. This experience ignited her passion for selling off-the-plan properties, particularly to investors.
Despite the success, subsequent lockdowns in Auckland posed significant challenges to real estate activities. Nevertheless, these obstacles led Natalie to contract with the New Zealand Government, utilizing her PR and marketing expertise to assist businesses in recovery efforts.Natalie Williams Coach+2NZREC25+2Natalie Williams Coach+2
Subsequently, she joined an Australasian company specializing in property investment education and the sale of premium off-the-plan developments. In this role, she managed sales for 14 developers in New Zealand, contributing to transactions totaling $6.4 billion.
Establishing Wealth Creators in Dubai
Driven by a desire to operate on a global scale, Natalie researched optimal locations for property investment and identified Dubai as a prime market. She traveled to the United States to network with top developers in New York and Los Angeles, even attending events with notable figures like Chris Brown. However, Dubai’s rapid growth and investor-friendly environment solidified her decision to establish her agency there.
Why Dubai Stands Out
In contrast to New Zealand, where property investments may take around 15 years to double in value, Dubai offers the potential for similar returns in approximately three years. The city boasts high-quality developments, favorable payment plans, robust infrastructure, and a rapidly growing population. The government’s proactive approach to encouraging foreign investment and making property ownership accessible further enhances its appeal.
Natalie collaborates with developers offering properties ranging from $1 million to $50 million, including those responsible for iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa. She emphasizes the advantages of purchasing off-the-plan properties, such as 10-year structural warranties, higher rental yields, and increased resale values.
Investor Demographics
Wealth Creators serves a diverse clientele, from seasoned investors seeking portfolio diversification to individuals looking to maximize their retirement savings. Many clients are drawn to Dubai’s potential for quicker returns compared to traditional markets.
Challenges and Personal Life
Establishing a business in Dubai presented its own set of challenges, especially as a foreign woman breaking new ground in the industry. Despite the hurdles, Natalie remains passionate about her work. Outside of her professional commitments, she enjoys exercise, travel, fashion, cooking, and hosting her podcast, “The Hustle,” where she engages with various entrepreneurs and business professionals
