2023 was a year of change for Dani Hatakka – the year he ended his professional football career. In his final years, Hatakka played for FC Honka in the Veikkausliiga. Over his career, he participated in 165 league matches wearing the jerseys of various teams.

His football career extended beyond Finland. Hatakka also played in Norway's top division in 2016 and Iceland between 2022 and 2023.

In 2023, Hatakka switched from one field to another. The defender became a goalscorer – the person who finds customers their dream home.

Teamwork has continued in his role as a sales consultant. In his first days, he familiarised himself with the working methods of his colleagues, Marita Vavulin, Samir Ferhane, and Timothy Lehtovirta, at the viewings of different Lumo homes.

Sales managers Taina Repo and Ella Remonen have also coached Hatakka in his new tasks.

"Not a day goes by when I don't need help from my sales colleagues. I succeeded so well in my job because of them."

"My manager Taina's support has also been precious. I can trust her to back me up and help whenever needed. Once, she even guided me from her breakfast table on her day off to open the office door so I could get to work," Hatakka laughs.

A sales negotiator at Lumo homes mainly contacts home-seeking customers, identifies their needs via phone and email, and offers suitable options from various homes.

"Usually, customers want to see the home in person before making a final decision, and half of my day is spent 'on the field', showing Lumo buildings and apartments to customers."

Occasionally, home viewings are conducted remotely.

"I've also held virtual viewings. For example, when a customer is in a hurry or can't attend a live viewing from another location. I've conducted FaceTime and WhatsApp calls as far away as Singapore and California," Hatakka explains.

"I genuinely find my work meaningful. It's interesting to meet many people with the same goal – to find their dream home. It's rewarding to hear a customer say, 'I'll take this one.' It's a goal of its own," Hatakka says.

Hatakka is currently responsible for Lumo homes in Tapanila, Pihlajamäki, Viikki, and Oulunkylä. In addition, his favourite properties are scattered across the capital region.

"The views from the top floors of the Lumo One skyscraper are unparalleled. At the same time, our conversion properties, where we've transformed old office and industrial buildings into unique urban homes, on Bulevardi, Eerikinkatu, and Luotsikatu, are incredibly atmospheric."

"As someone who grew up in Olari, I find it nostalgic to show apartments in my childhood neighbourhood. As a local, I can tip customers off about the best shortcuts and meeting spots in Olari," Hatakka suggests.