When Kapil Rana stepped off a plane in 2007, clutching little more than his admission papers to study horticulture at MIT Otara, he never imagined he’d one day be making headlines as one of South Auckland’s top real estate agents. From tending to plants in Karaka to closing multi-million-dollar property deals, Kapil’s story is a tale of grit, hustle, and a knack for reinvention.
Hailing from Chandigarh, India, Kapil’s first New Zealand job had him working at NZ Hot House in Karaka, cultivating vegetables and a steely work ethic. By 2012, he had secured residency and bought his very first home: a modest two bedroom unit in Papatoetoe for $298,000.
But it wasn’t long before the investment paid off. In 2015, he sold the property at auction for $457,000, upgrading to a spacious four-bedroom house, complete with a double garage. His knack for spotting opportunities had taken root.
The cab driver who dreamed big
By 2017, Kapil was living a double life: by day, a cab driver cruising Auckland’s streets; by night, a student hunched over real estate textbooks.
“Driving cabs wasn’t just a job; it was a masterclass in human behaviour,” he says. “I met everyone—from corporate bigwigs to new migrants—all with stories that shaped my understanding of people and their needs.”
That year, Kapil joined Barfoot & Thompson as a part-time associate, diving into the deep end of South Auckland’s property market. Under the mentorship of realtor Karan Sawhney, Kapil learned the art of negotiation, market strategy, and delivering exceptional
customer service.
The Tesla promotion sensation
In 2022, Kapil made international headlines with a groundbreaking marketing strategy: a property sale in Flat Bush featuring a Tesla as part of the deal. The innovative promotion not only captured local attention but also created a global buzz, with news outlets around the world highlighting the unique offering. “It was more than just a gimmick—it was about thinking outside the box and providing value in ways people hadn’t seen before,” Kapil explains.
During this period, Kapil met Prince Kapoor, a fellow professional in the industry who collaborated with him on the Tesla promotion. Their shared vision for innovation and excellence sparked a friendship, and Prince became a trusted confidant and mentor. Fast forward to 2024, and Counties Energy Kapil’s name is synonymous with success. He has been the top salesperson at his branch since 2021 and, in March this year, led his team to claim the title of the top Barfoot & Thompson sales team in South Auckland. His secret? “Consistency, honesty, and a relentless focus on feedback.
Whether it’s a $700,000 home or a $2 million property, my goal is the same—happy clients,” Kapil shares.
Specialising in luxury homes
Kapil’s specialty lies in selling high-end luxury homes in Flat Bush, particularly those designed for multi-generational living. “I love connecting families with homes that work for their unique dynamics. A home-and-granny flat setup isn’t just bricks and mortar—it’s a lifestyle upgrade,” he explains.
Kapil’s success isn’t a solo act. He’s quick to credit his associate, Preet Sidhu, who joined him in 2021, and his mentors, including Karan, who taught him the ropes early on. Family and Travel: His Foundation and Recharge Outside of work, Kapil’s life is a joyous juggling act. A father of two—a nine-year-old daughter and a seven-year-old son—he’s also a devoted son to his parents, who live with him and are proud New Zealand citizens.
“Family is everything. They ground me and remind me why I work so hard,” he says
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