In the competitive world of Perth real estate, having a famous surname can be both a blessing and a challenge. For Matthew Yap, son of Western Australian property icon Vivien Yap, he's determined to prove that his success stems from more than just family connections.
Carving His Own Path in the Family Business
As a sales executive at Ray White Vivien Yap in South Perth, Matthew has been steadily building his reputation in one of Australia's most dynamic property markets. While he acknowledges the advantage of his mother's established brand, he's quick to emphasise that trust and results must be earned individually.
'People might come to me initially because of the Yap name,' Matthew explains, 'but they stay because of the service and outcomes I deliver. In this industry, your reputation is everything.'
Learning from a Property Legend
Growing up with one of Perth's most successful real estate agents as a mother provided Matthew with an unparalleled education in property. From childhood, he witnessed firsthand the dedication, market knowledge, and client focus that built Vivien Yap's legendary status.
'Mum never pressured me to join the business,' he recalls. 'She wanted me to find my own passion. But watching her transform people's lives through property eventually drew me in.'
The Modern Approach to Real Estate
While respecting traditional methods that made his mother successful, Matthew brings his own contemporary approach to the industry. He's leveraging digital marketing strategies and social media to connect with younger buyers and sellers, while maintaining the personal touch that defines the Yap brand.
His strategy appears to be working remarkably well. In a challenging market, Matthew has consistently achieved impressive results, building a loyal client base that values his unique blend of youthful energy and deep property knowledge.
Building a Legacy Beyond the Surname
For Matthew, success means more than just matching sales figures. It's about establishing his own identity while honouring the values that made his family name synonymous with excellence in Western Australian real estate.
'I'm proud of what my mother has built, and I want to contribute to that legacy in my own way,' he says. 'It's not about filling her shoes, but about walking my own path alongside her.'
As Perth's property market continues to evolve, Matthew Yap represents the next generation of real estate professionals – those who respect tradition while embracing innovation, proving that while a famous name might open doors, it's talent and hard work that build lasting careers.
