Meet Alicia, whose entry into real estate may have been unexpected, but her rise into leadership was deliberate. Growing up in her father’s long standing agency, she gained early exposure to property transactions, client relationships, and the discipline behind every successful deal. Today, as a key executive officer at Ripton Realty Private Limited, she represents a new generation of leaders blending ground experience with corporate and regulatory insight.
Beyond running agency operations, Alicia plays an active role in shaping the wider real estate community through her service on the SIEA Executive Council and industry task forces. Balancing governance responsibilities with client work and strategic leadership, she approaches her career with professionalism, long term vision, and a commitment to credibility. In an industry where youth is often questioned, Alicia proves that competence, consistency, and character ultimately define leadership.
You have achieved a leadership role at a very young age in Ripton Realty Private Limited. What motivated you to pursue real estate as a career so early on?
Honestly, I took the real estate course for fun after graduating from university while waiting to start my first job. I had about two months to spare, so I decided to take the course and passed. I was definitely influenced by my father, who had been running his own agency for more than 20 years at that time.
Growing up, I often accompanied him for viewings, so real estate felt like second nature to me. After obtaining my licence, I worked in corporate marketing for a few years before eventually making the switch to join my father full time.
What I enjoy about real estate is that no two cases are the same. I like working with individuals who have different needs and helping them navigate important decisions. Because I had early exposure to the industry, I was able to adapt more quickly and smoothly compared to many of my peers.
As one of the youngest key executive officers in the industry, what challenges did you face early on and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was perception. In this industry, being young is not always seen as an advantage because youth is often equated with inexperience. Clients, agents, and even agency owners are sometimes surprised when they learn that I am the key executive officer. Since I started young, I realised early on that I needed to demonstrate credibility through competence.
I made it a point to stay well read, understand regulations thoroughly, and keep myself updated so that I remain relevant and competitive. I sometimes joke that I have more than 20 years of experience because I started attending viewings at a very young age. Ultimately, trust is built over time through consistent interactions.
I am thankful that many of my clients are confident in my advice, regardless of my age.
You also serve as Assistant Honorary Secretary on the SIEA Executive Council (2025–2027). What does this role involve, and what impact do you hope to have during your term?
As Assistant Honorary Secretary of the SIEA Executive Committee, I mainly support administrative and governance matters within the association. We have a a secretariat team that oversees much of the operational work, so my role is largely supervisory rather than hands on.
In addition, I serve as Chairperson of the Membership and RES Affairs Task Force, where we organise membership events such as key networking sessions and conferences, and work on initiatives that benefit members. I am also the Vice Chairperson of the SG Real Estate Agents Excellence Awards Task Force 2026. We organise the annual awards ceremony, which is the only industry recognised award where salespersons’ achievements can be featured on the CEA public register.
During my term, I hope to introduce more meaningful initiatives that benefit members across the industry and to grow membership by helping agencies and professionals understand the value of being part of the association.
Real estate may appear glamorous and lucrative from the outside, but there is a great deal of unseen hard work behind every deal. If you are considering entering the industry, come with an open mind and be willing to learn.
Many young professionals find it difficult to balance ambition with work life harmony. How do you maintain your own balance amidst these responsibilities?
The real estate industry does not follow a nine to five schedule. Weekends are usually the busiest time. When I first started, I was not used to the pace because I came from a corporate environment where weekends were off. Initially, I did not know how to draw boundaries. I would reply to messages late into the night, and I remember prospects being surprised that I responded at midnight.
Over time, I realised that being constantly available was not sustainable. I now set clearer boundaries and only respond after hours if the matter is truly urgent. I plan my schedule more consciously and protect my rest when needed. It requires intentional planning and discipline.
What advice would you give to young people who are considering a career in real estate but feel uncertain or daunted by the industry?
Real estate may appear glamorous and lucrative from the outside, but there is a great deal of unseen hard work behind every deal. If you are considering entering the industry, come with an open mind and be willing to learn. Discipline and perseverance are essential. When you first start, you will face rejection and uncertainty. Results take time and consistent effort.
If you are looking for quick success, this may not be the right industry. However, if you are prepared to work consistently over the long term, it can be a very rewarding career.
What is the biggest mistake you have made in your career and what did you learn from it?
Before entering real estate, I had never worked in sales. When I first started, I took rejection personally, especially when people ignored my calls or messages. Over time, I realised that rejection is part of the profession. I had to learn to detach emotionally from work situations, including dealing with difficult customers.
This was important for my mental wellbeing. I also learned the importance of switching off after work and focusing on family and the things that truly matter.
What is your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
I hope Singapore continues to remain safe, stable, and forward looking. In terms of real estate, I hope that housing in Singapore continues to remain an attainable goal for most Singaporeans.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?
I have always wanted the ability to teleport. With a busy schedule, time is extremely valuable. Travelling from one place to another can be time consuming, especially when I need to be in multiple locations in a single day. If I could teleport, I could maximise my time, increase efficiency, and perhaps have more time to rest.
Connect with Alicia: WhatsApp and Instagram.
