From the dusty plains of the Northern Cape to the thriving property market of Bloemfontein, Erna’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose.
After matriculating from Hoërskool Hopetown and completing an agricultural degree, Erna’s early life was spent as a farmer’s wife and devoted mother. But when life’s circumstances changed, she embraced new beginnings, transforming personal, financial, and economic challenges into stepping stones toward a dynamic career in real estate.
In 2005, Erna entered the property industry in Bloemfontein and never looked back. Driven by a passion for people and property, she honed her sales skills, built deep community connections, and eventually founded her own agency – Aguila Real Estate. Today, Erna leads a loyal, passionate team of 12 property professionals who are as committed as she is to service excellence, collaboration, and achieving results with integrity.
Under her leadership, Aguila Real Estate has become a trusted name in the Free State. With a client-first approach, Erna ensures that every buyer and seller feels supported, heard, and empowered throughout their property journey. “Property is a people’s business,” she says, “and when we align purpose with action, we create meaningful impact – not only in sales, but in lives.”
As a proud wife, mother, stepmother, and grandmother to beautiful twin girls, Erna balances family with business by leading with empathy, celebrating others, and standing for what’s right. Her mantra: stop playing small. She encourages her team and clients to invest in property not only as a financial decision, but as a pathway to security, confidence, and legacy.
Through continuous growth and fearless leadership, she is shaping the future of real estate in Bloemfontein. Her aim? To make every transaction a win-win experience and to turn property dreams into reality.
Erna’s bold vision for Aguila Real Estate is to be the agency of choice, known for honesty, heart, and high standards. By fostering referral networks and prioritising real connections, she ensures that business success is built on trust and long-term relationships.
Her story is a testament to transformation, proving that with purpose and persistence, you can lead change – in yourself, your business, and your community.
Text: SUPPLIED
