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About ABINI

ABINI was founded in 2020 as the initial idea of two agencies, driven by the need to create an association that addresses the current needs and future challenges of the real estate sector and its key players within a professional and collaborative environment. One of the main pillars behind ABINI’s creation is to elevate the real estate profession. We believe it is essential to regulate the sector to put an end to unqualified practices. Today, we can proudly say that significant progress has been made in this area thanks to our dedicated efforts.

Another key milestone is contributing to solutions for the housing access challenges in the Balearic Islands. We aim to be part of the solution, working with firm and determined proposals. At the same time, we believe these solutions should not involve restrictions or legislation against property transactions. We advocate for market freedom, regardless of the origin or nationality of those wishing to purchase property.

We operate based on unity and shared interests. The real estate agencies that are part of ABINI collaborate with the Administration to address housing shortages and promote the positive image of those of us who are passionate about the buying, selling and renting of properties.

To build and work with an effective team of real estate professionals

We are a group that supports and assists our members as part of a united team. Carrying the ABINI seal means embodying professionalism, rigor and integrity. We want all our members to identify with these three qualities.

We are committed to sustainable development

Our members prioritise the care and protection of the Balearic Islands. While we are not in favour of excessive development, we are aware of the existing housing challenges. We work towards preserving the natural environment while strengthening and promoting the Balearic Islands’ economic future.

Promoting the Balearic Islands

We collaborate with national and international markets, proudly showcasing Mallorca and the Balearic Islands to the world. With pride and excitement, we represent this Mediterranean paradise that we believe is truly unique.

Be the voice of our members

ABINI is home to real estate agencies that, based on shared interests, are part of the Association. For this reason, we unite our efforts to ensure we are heard. We know that individually, we wouldn’t have the same impact, so we speak as one voice with common needs and demands.

Advocate for the regulation of the sector

We believe our sector needs regulation to prevent fraudulent practices that tarnish the daily work of real estate agencies. We stand alongside the government, contributing our knowledge on this essential issue to ensure proper, professional service for clients.

Keep members informed about sector changes

We engage with our members and remain open to new joiners who meet our entry requirements. We work closely with other associations related to the sector to enhance our capacity for action and decision-making.

Help our members to be better prepared and represented

We provide continuous training to our members, keeping them updated on all housing-related information. We share the latest news from the media, position ourselves as a unified voice and stay vigilant about any legislative changes that occur.

Relationships with external agencies and other associations

Another of our goals is to engage with external agencies of interest to our Association, as well as other related sectors, such as legal services, tourism, construction and any others relevant to our daily operations.

Hanz Lenz
Chairman

Hanz Lenz

/ Engel & Völkers

Born in Mallorca, Hanz is a founding member of ABINI and combines this role with his position as Director of Engel & Völkers Mallorca Southwest. Active in the real estate sector since 2004, he has gained extensive experience in all aspects of housing, working with multidisciplinary, international, and cross-sector teams. Integration and professionalisation are key elements of the ethically responsible work ABINI strives for. Housing as a fundamental right is one of the main challenges to address in the Balearic Islands. ABINI’s commitment is to collaborate and participate in finding efficient, realistic models that do not harm the right to private property and the free movement of goods and people.
John van Eenennaam
Board Member - Administration

John van Eenennaam

/ John Taylor

John is originally from the Netherlands, holds a degree in Economics and Languages and has lived in Mallorca since 1991. His extensive experience in property sales began in 2005, and he is currently a franchise partner of John Taylor in Mallorca Southwest. With more than a decade of experience in the real estate sector, he knows that Mallorca offers the perfect combination of lifestyle, nature and excellent infrastructure. John, also an experienced long-distance marathon runner, believes that respect, honesty, transparency and reliability are the key factors that make a real estate professional an expert.
Jorge Forteza
Vice President & Secretary

Jorge Forteza

/ BHHS Nova Mallorca

Jorge was born in Mallorca and, although he studied and worked in Spain's largest and most dynamic cities, he was always clear that he would return to Mallorca. Here, he can combine his two passions: working in the real estate sector and competitive sailing, which he has been professionally involved in for many years. Jorge holds a degree in Economics and Business Administration. He began his career in the real estate sector in 1980 and became a partner of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Nova Mallorca, where he is currently the Managing Director and owner. Jorge is an active member of API - the Association of Real Estate Agents of the Balearic Islands.
Daniela Gawert
Board Member - Organisation

Daniela Gawert

/ Kensington

Daniela's original professional experience is in the social and health sectors. After completing a business apprenticeship in her native Germany, she moved to Mallorca in 2010 and has been working in the real estate sector since. She is the Managing Director of Kensington Real Estate for various license areas. For Daniela, the appeal of Mallorca lies in its diversity, cultural richness and the fact that it is a safe haven to live in.
Ahmet Senoglu
Treasurer

Ahmet Senoglu

/ Mallorcaresidencia

Ahmet holds an MBA and an M.Eng. from Cornell University, USA. He has many years of experience in the financial and consulting sectors in the United States and Sweden. After working as a consultant at McKinsey & Co. in Stockholm, he managed a medium-sized technology company as CEO. Today, Ahmet is a partner at MallorcaResidencia and is responsible for the development of new projects, working closely with private and institutional investors interested in Mallorca. He speaks English, Swedish, German, Turkish and Spanish.
Birgit Süssmilch
Board Member - Training

Birgit Süssmilch

/ Engel & Völkers

Birgit holds a degree in Business Administration and, after participating in the ERASMUS exchange program at the Abat Oliba University in Barcelona in 2000, decided to stay in Spain. After working in the real estate sector in Marbella, she joined the Engel & Völkers Mallorca Southwest group in 2004, where she now manages the Santa Ponsa office and works as an international sales trainer. This extensive experience is now being used to strengthen ABINI’s training and professional development programs for its members.