TL;DR
Eight years ago, IQI Sabah began with just 13 property agents. Today, it has grown into a thriving community of more than 3,000 agents, led by Sabah Branch Leader Joel Low. While the numbers are impressive, Joel believes the real achievement lies elsewhere. It is in seeing people build better careers, gain financial confidence, and create opportunities they once thought were out of reach. Through real stories from Sabah agents and a strong support ecosystem, this is the story of how IQI continues Changing Lives, Realizing Dreams.
Key Takeaways
- IQI Sabah has grown from 13 agents to more than 3,000 in just eight years under Joel Low’s leadership.
- The team’s success is measured not only by business growth but by the lives and careers transformed along the way.
- Many Sabah agents have achieved milestones such as buying homes, earning six-figure incomes, travelling overseas and becoming team leaders.
- IQI empowers agents with technology, training, mentorship and opportunities that support long-term career growth.
- Today, IQI Sabah contributes to property transactions worth well over RM1 billion annually across project sales, secondary market transactions and rentals.
What’s inside?
- TL;DR
- Key Takeaways
- More Than Growing a Business, It Was About Building People’s Future
- Meet Joel Low, The Leader Behind IQI Sabah
- Success Isn’t Measured Only by Income
- A Community Built on Support, Not Competition
- More Than Numbers, A Growing Impact Across Sabah
- Real Stories That Reflect IQI Sabah’s Mission
- From Starting Over to Becoming a Team Leader in Just One Year
- From an RM1,800 Salary to Exploring the World
- Consistency Can Change Everything
- A Culture That Celebrates Every Achievement
- The Platform Behind Every Success Story
- Why IQI Sabah Continues to Attract Thousands of Property Professionals
- Empowering Agents at Every Stage of Their Journey
- More Than a Career. A Community That Grows Together
- Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for IQI Sabah
- About IQI Sabah
More Than Growing a Business, It Was About Building People’s Future
When people talk about success in real estate, they often think about impressive sales numbers, luxury homes or high commissions.
For Joel Low, the story is different.
While leading IQI Sabah from a small team of just 13 property agents to a community of more than 3,000 agents, the milestone he speaks about most is not the number itself.
Instead, he talks about the people.
The single mother who found financial stability.
The young professional who never imagined owning a home.
The aspiring leader who built a successful team after starting with no industry experience.
For Joel, these stories represent the true meaning of success.
“The biggest achievement I have with IQI is transforming the lives of our agents, especially here in Sabah.”
That belief has shaped IQI Sabah over the past eight years, helping it grow into one of the largest and most active real estate communities in the state.
Today, the team supports thousands of property professionals while facilitating property transactions worth well over RM1 billion every year, covering new project sales, secondary market transactions and rental properties across Sabah.
Behind those numbers are thousands of individual stories, each beginning with someone deciding to take a chance on themselves.
Meet Joel Low, The Leader Behind IQI Sabah
Originally from Kuala Lumpur, Joel Low has called Sabah home for more than 20 years.
After joining IQI eight years ago, he was entrusted with leading the company’s expansion in Sabah. At the time, the team consisted of only 13 agents.
Building a successful real estate community from such a small starting point was never going to happen overnight.
It required patience, consistent leadership and a clear vision.
Rather than focusing only on recruitment, Joel believed in building a culture where people could continue learning, supporting one another and growing together.
That philosophy continues to influence how IQI Sabah operates today.
Looking back on the journey, Joel remains humbled by how far the community has come.
“I started with 13 people, but today IQI Sabah has more than 3,000 agents.”
While that growth is remarkable, Joel believes the number only tells part of the story.
Every new agent represents a family striving for a better future, someone pursuing greater financial independence or an individual looking for a meaningful career change.
This people-first mindset has become one of the defining characteristics of IQI Sabah.
Success Isn’t Measured Only by Income
Ask Joel what achievement makes him most proud, and his answer has very little to do with commission.
Instead, he immediately talks about the people whose lives have changed.
Throughout the years, he has watched individuals from different backgrounds discover opportunities they never thought possible.
Some were supporting families on limited incomes.
Some were single mothers searching for greater financial stability.
Others simply wanted a career where their effort could directly influence their future.
Many arrived with uncertainty.
Today, many have become successful negotiators, respected team leaders and mentors who are now helping others follow the same path.
“It’s not about monetary success. It’s about changing lives. Because of this platform, IQI, we can achieve this.”
For Joel, success creates a ripple effect.
When one person grows, they often inspire others around them.
A new negotiator becomes a top performer.
A top performer becomes a leader.
A leader builds a team.
That team creates even more opportunities for others.
It is this cycle of growth that has helped IQI Sabah continue expanding while maintaining a strong sense of community.
A Community Built on Support, Not Competition
Real estate is often seen as an individual profession.
Many imagine agents working independently, competing for listings and chasing sales.
Joel believes success becomes much more sustainable when people succeed together.
Over the years, IQI Sabah has focused on creating an environment where experienced leaders actively mentor new agents, knowledge is shared openly and achievements are celebrated as a team.
This collaborative culture has allowed many newcomers to develop confidence much faster than they expected.
Instead of feeling like they have to navigate the industry alone, agents are surrounded by experienced professionals who are willing to guide them through every stage of their journey.
For many, that support becomes just as valuable as the income they eventually earn.
Because while property transactions may begin with homes, they are ultimately built on relationships, trust and people helping people.
That philosophy continues to define IQI Sabah today.
Join a Community That Grows Together
Behind every success story is a team that believes in helping each other grow. At IQI Sabah, you’ll be supported by experienced leaders, practical training and a community that celebrates every milestone, big or small.
Find out how you can become part of a team that’s committed to helping you succeed.
More Than Numbers, A Growing Impact Across Sabah
The growth of IQI Sabah can also be seen through its contribution to the state’s property market.
Today, the Sabah team includes hundreds of registered real estate negotiators supported by experienced agency leaders, serving buyers, sellers, investors and tenants across the state.
Collectively, the team facilitates property transactions worth well over RM1 billion annually, spanning new developments, secondary market sales and rental transactions.
These figures reflect not only the scale of the business, but also the trust placed in IQI Sabah by homeowners, developers and property investors.
Sabah continues to be one of Malaysia’s most exciting property markets, offering opportunities across new developments, subsale homes and investment properties. If you’d like to understand the market better, explore our latest Sabah Property Market Guide.
Yet for Joel, the most meaningful number remains impossible to measure.
It is the number of lives that have been transformed through opportunity, mentorship and a supportive community.
And as the team continues to grow, he believes there are many more success stories still waiting to be written.
Real Stories That Reflect IQI Sabah’s Mission
Behind every milestone achieved by IQI Sabah is a story that begins with someone taking a chance on themselves.
Some joined with no experience in real estate. Others were searching for a more stable income or greater flexibility to support their families. While every journey is different, they all share one thing in common. They found a platform that helped them grow, supported by mentors, teammates and opportunities that rewarded hard work.
Here are just a few of the many stories that continue to shape the IQI Sabah community.
From Starting Over to Becoming a Team Leader in Just One Year
For Fadzreen Shahira Rusli, joining IQI was more than changing jobs. It was the beginning of a completely different future.
Like many people entering the real estate industry, she started from zero. There were no guarantees of success, only the willingness to learn and put in the effort.
Within a relatively short period, her hard work began to pay off.
She successfully purchased two homes, upgraded her car and achieved a six-figure annual income, milestones she once thought would take much longer to accomplish.
Her achievements extended beyond financial success. Through IQI’s incentive programme, she earned the opportunity to travel to Europe, a destination she had never imagined visiting before entering the industry.
Her dedication also earned recognition within the company. In a single year, she received five awards and progressed from negotiator to Team Leader, demonstrating how quickly growth is possible when consistent effort is matched with the right support.
Her journey reflects how continuous learning and mentorship can accelerate career growth, something IQI supports through structured coaching and professional development.
Looking back, Fadzreen credits both her determination and the opportunities provided by IQI for helping her reach this stage.
“I started from zero, but today I’ve achieved financial freedom, bought two homes and become a team leader. Everything became possible through IQI.”
Today, she is no longer focused only on her own success. As a leader, she now guides and mentors others who are beginning their own real estate journey.
Her story reflects something Joel often talks about. Success doesn’t stop with one person. It creates opportunities for many more.
From an RM1,800 Salary to Exploring the World
Everyone has their own definition of success.
For Lis, success meant creating experiences she never thought were possible.
Before entering the real estate industry, she earned a monthly salary of around RM1,800.
Today, after three years with IQI Elite Sabah, her career has taken her much further than she expected.
One of her proudest achievements isn’t a trophy or commission cheque. It’s the opportunity to travel the world.
Through IQI’s incentive programmes, Lis has visited Chongqing in China, Turkey and Bali, fully sponsored by the company.
These trips became memorable milestones, not simply because of the destinations themselves, but because they represented how much her life had changed.
Professionally, her income has also grown significantly, reaching five to six figures in certain months, something she says would have been difficult to imagine before joining the industry.
While the financial rewards are meaningful, she believes the experiences and personal growth have been equally valuable.
“One of my biggest achievements is being able to travel to three different countries with IQI. Those experiences are something I’ll always remember.”
Her journey is another reminder that success looks different for everyone.
For some, it means buying a home.
For others, it means creating memories they once believed were beyond their reach.
Consistency Can Change Everything
For another Sabah agent recognised during the IQI Sabah Prestige Awards, the biggest difference after joining IQI wasn’t simply earning more.
It was earning more consistently.
Before joining IQI, the agent had already been working in real estate but found that income fluctuated from month to month, making long-term financial planning difficult.
After joining IQI, things gradually changed.
With stronger support, better systems and access to more opportunities, income became significantly more stable.
Today, the agent has progressed from earning around RM1,800 previously to achieving five to six-figure monthly earnings, while also reaching the prestigious Million Dollar Achiever milestone.
Receiving recognition during the Sabah Prestige Awards was a proud moment, but it represented something much bigger than an award.
It symbolised years of perseverance, continuous learning and the confidence that comes from being recognised by peers and leaders.
As shared during the awards night,
“Since joining IQI, I’ve achieved my Million Dollar Achiever milestone. I’ll continue working hard, and I hope others watching this realise they can achieve it too.”
Stories like these highlight an important truth.
Success rarely happens overnight.
It is built through consistency, support and the willingness to keep improving every day.
A Culture That Celebrates Every Achievement
At IQI Sabah, achievements are celebrated because they represent real people reaching meaningful milestones.
Throughout the year, agents are recognised through appreciation events such as the Sabah Prestige Awards, where outstanding performances, leadership and team achievements are celebrated together.
Recognition extends far beyond sales performance alone.
It also reflects leadership development, personal growth, teamwork and the positive impact agents create within their communities.
For many agents, standing on stage to receive an award is not simply about receiving a trophy.
It is the moment they realise how far they have come.
For someone who once worried about paying monthly commitments, receiving recognition alongside hundreds of fellow professionals becomes a powerful reminder of what is possible through dedication and perseverance.
These celebrations also inspire newer agents, showing them that every top performer once started exactly where they are today.
The Platform Behind Every Success Story
While every journey is unique, many successful agents share one common advantage.
They are supported by an ecosystem designed to help them succeed.
At IQI, agents are never expected to build their careers alone. They are equipped with the tools, resources and guidance needed to grow confidently, whether they are new to the industry or experienced professionals looking to reach the next level.
Some of the ways IQI empowers its agents include:
Access to More Than 1,000 Property Projects
Agents have access to an extensive portfolio of residential, commercial and international developments, allowing them to serve a wider variety of buyers and investors while expanding their business opportunities.
AI-Powered Technology That Works Smarter
IQI continues investing in digital innovation, providing agents with AI-powered tools, marketing solutions and productivity platforms that simplify everyday work, improve efficiency and allow more time to focus on clients.
Many of these tools are available through Atlas SuperApp, helping agents manage listings, marketing and client activities more efficiently.
Weekly Coaching and Mentorship
Learning never stops. Regular coaching sessions, practical training and mentorship from experienced leaders help agents continuously sharpen their skills, build confidence and stay updated with market trends.
Explore how IQI Academy helps agents continue developing throughout their careers.
Faster Commission Payouts
Cash flow matters, especially for self-employed professionals.
Eligible commission payouts can be processed in as fast as five days, allowing agents to enjoy the rewards of their hard work sooner.
Agents can also estimate their potential earnings using IQI’s Commission Calculator.
Recognition That Goes Beyond Income
Success at IQI is celebrated in many ways.
From overseas incentive trips and Apple gadget rewards to leadership awards and milestone recognitions, agents are encouraged and rewarded throughout their journey.
Opportunities Beyond Borders
As part of a global real estate network, IQI also opens doors to cross-border property transactions and international collaborations, giving agents opportunities to serve clients both within Malaysia and overseas.
Together, these initiatives help create an environment where agents are empowered not just to close more transactions, but to build sustainable, long-term careers.
Why IQI Sabah Continues to Attract Thousands of Property Professionals
Every successful agent has a different story.
Some join because they are looking for a career change. Others want greater flexibility, a higher income or the opportunity to build something of their own.
While their goals may differ, many discover that success becomes much easier when they have the right people, the right systems and the right support behind them.
That is one of the reasons IQI Sabah has continued to grow over the past eight years.
Rather than simply recruiting agents, the focus has always been on helping people build sustainable careers through continuous learning, collaboration and innovation.
Today, thousands of agents across Sabah are supported by an ecosystem designed to help them work smarter, serve clients better and continue growing throughout their careers.
Empowering Agents at Every Stage of Their Journey
Starting a career in real estate can feel overwhelming.
There is a lot to learn, from understanding the property market and building client relationships to marketing listings and negotiating transactions.
At IQI, new and experienced agents are supported every step of the way through a combination of technology, training and mentorship.
Some of the key benefits available to IQI agents include:
Access to More Than 1,000 Property Projects
Finding the right property for clients is one of the most important parts of being a real estate professional.
IQI agents have access to more than 1,000 local and international property projects, allowing them to match buyers and investors with a wider range of opportunities while expanding their own business potential.
AI-Powered Technology That Helps Agents Work Smarter
Technology continues to reshape the real estate industry, and IQI is committed to staying ahead.
Agents have access to AI-powered tools, digital marketing platforms and productivity solutions that simplify daily tasks, making it easier to generate marketing content, manage leads and focus on delivering better service to clients.
Weekly Coaching and Mentorship
Behind every successful agent is someone willing to guide them.
From regular coaching sessions to leadership development programmes, IQI encourages a culture where experienced professionals actively support newcomers, helping them gain confidence and develop practical skills.
Faster Commission Payouts
For many self-employed professionals, consistent cash flow is important.
IQI offers eligible commission payouts in as fast as five days, allowing agents to enjoy the rewards of their hard work sooner.
Recognition That Motivates Growth
Success deserves to be celebrated.
Outstanding performers have opportunities to earn overseas incentive trips, Apple gadget rewards and recognition through company awards and leadership programmes.
As seen through the stories of Fadzreen, Lis and many other Sabah agents, these experiences become memorable milestones that reflect years of dedication and perseverance.
Home Bonus Opportunities
One of the unique initiatives available within IQI is the Home Bonus Programme, where eligible agents have the opportunity to receive housing support worth up to RM500,000*.
For many agents, this represents more than just a financial incentive. It reflects IQI’s long-term commitment to helping its people achieve important life goals beyond their careers.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Borderless Opportunities Across the Globe
As part of IQI Global, agents are connected to an international real estate network spanning more than 30 countries.
This allows them to explore cross-border property transactions, collaborate with international colleagues and assist clients looking for investment opportunities both within Malaysia and overseas.
In today’s increasingly connected property market, these opportunities open doors that extend far beyond local boundaries.
More Than a Career. A Community That Grows Together
One of the themes that appears throughout every conversation with Joel and the Sabah agents is community.
Success is rarely described as an individual achievement.
Instead, it is often shared with mentors who offered guidance, teammates who provided encouragement and leaders who believed in someone’s potential before they believed in themselves.
This culture of collaboration has helped transform IQI Sabah into far more than a workplace.
It has become a community where people celebrate each other’s achievements, learn together and continue inspiring the next generation of property professionals.
For Joel, that has always been the goal.
Growing a business is important.
Growing people is even more meaningful.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for IQI Sabah
From a team of just 13 agents to a community of more than 3,000, IQI Sabah’s journey is a reminder that meaningful growth takes time, commitment and a clear purpose.
The numbers are certainly impressive.
Thousands of agents.
Property transactions worth well over RM1 billion annually.
Kota Kinabalu continues to play an important role in Sabah’s growing property market. Learn more about why the city continues attracting homeowners and investors.
Countless awards and recognitions.
But behind every statistic is a person who decided to take the first step towards building a better future.
Some wanted greater financial stability.
Some wanted more freedom with their time.
Others simply wanted a career where their effort could directly shape their success.
Today, many of them have achieved milestones they once thought were impossible.
And as IQI Sabah continues to grow, new success stories are being written every day.
Your Story Could Be the Next One We Tell
Eight years ago, Joel Low started with a team of just 13 agents.
Today, IQI Sabah has grown into a thriving community of more than 3,000 property professionals, with countless stories of people who have built rewarding careers, achieved financial freedom and created opportunities they once thought were beyond reach.
None of those stories happened overnight. They all began with one decision to take the first step.
The stories you’ve read aren’t promises. They’re real experiences from real people who chose to believe in their potential and worked hard to achieve their goals with the support of the right platform and community.
Whether you’re exploring a new career, looking for greater flexibility or ready to unlock your next level of growth, your journey could start today.
Join a community that’s committed to helping you grow, succeed and make a difference, not just in your own life, but in the lives of the people you serve.
Changing Lives. Realizing Dreams.
Ready to begin your journey? Connect with the IQI Sabah team today and discover what your future could look like.
About IQI Sabah
IQI Sabah is part of IQI Global, one of the world’s leading real estate networks with a presence in more than 30 countries. Led by Sabah Branch Leader Joel Low, the Sabah team has grown from just 13 agents to a thriving community of more than 3,000 property professionals over the past eight years.
Driven by innovation, collaboration and a people-first culture, IQI Sabah continues to empower individuals through technology, mentorship, professional development and opportunities that extend beyond borders, helping agents build rewarding careers while serving homeowners, buyers and investors across Sabah.
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