Theo Goosen Estate Agents & Auctioneers: Meet Raymond Pratt

Raymond Pratt: 20 years. One legacy

Almost 20 years ago, a conversation at the Polokwane Golf Club with longtime family friend Francois Goosen sparked what would become a lifelong career. “That’s where the seed was planted,” Raymond Pratt reflects – and the rest is history.

Inspired by Francois and guided by a deep respect for the late founder, Oom Theo Goosen, he has built his career on the same principles that shaped Theo Goosen Estate Agents & Auctioneers from the beginning: honesty, integrity, and hard work. As he approaches his 20-year milestone on 1 August 2026, his commitment to these values remains unwavering.

Today, as co-director, his vision is clear – to continue growing the Theo Goosen Estate Agents brand while staying true to its roots. “I have immense respect for how Oom Theo conducted business,” he says. “The goal is to carry that forward and keep building on the strong growth we’ve seen in recent years.”

The agency’s strength, he believes, lies in its legacy and its people. A well-established name in Polokwane, Theo Goosen Estate Agents & Auctioneers brings together multiple generations of agents, each contributing valuable experience and insight. This blend of knowledge, combined with active involvement in the market – including property valuations – allows the team to offer informed, reliable guidance to clients.

Specialising in commercial and industrial property, Raymond has witnessed significant shifts in the local market over the years. The rise of estates and shopping centres, along with the steady expansion of Polokwane, reflects a region full of opportunity. His advice to clients is simple but powerful: be informed, seek professional advice, and always be willing to negotiate. Drawing on the words of Theo Goosen himself, he adds, “Hard work seldom goes by unpaid.”

His leadership style is hands-on and grounded. He leads by example – putting in the hours and staying closely involved in transactions and daily operations. What he values most, however, is seeing others grow. “People often doubt themselves too much,” he says. “Take a chance, make a mistake, the sun will come up again tomorrow.”

Building trust with clients remains at the core of his approach. By being punctual, listening carefully, and always acting in the client’s best interest, he continues to uphold the values that have defined Theo Goosen Estate Agents for decades. It’s this consistency that has built long-standing relationships and a loyal client base.

One of his proudest career milestones came in 2025, when the team successfully relocated to their new offices in 109 Genl Maritz Street, and elevated the business to new heights.

Outside of work, he enjoys time on the golf course, hunting, and following a variety of sports. A true bushveld enthusiast, he chooses the bush over the beach any day, and a good cup of coffee keeps him going through busy day.

For him, Polokwane is more than just a place of business, it’s a close-knit community. “You rarely go shopping without seeing familiar faces,” he says. With its warm climate, welcoming people, and bushveld surroundings, it remains an exceptional place to live and invest.

Grounded in experience, driven by integrity, and committed to both clients and community, he continues to play a key role in shaping the future of Theo Goosen Estate Agents & Auctioneers; one transaction, and one relationship at a time.