LJ Hooker Gladstone has further bolstered its position in the Central Queensland market with a strategic acquisition as part of its two-part transition to the iconic real estate network.
Licensees and directors, Ron English and Lissa Holgate, who changed from The Professionals Gladstone to LJ Hooker Gladstone in October last year, had been actively seeking opportunities to expand their footprint in the region’s popular coastal market.
That growth has now been realised with the acquisition of nearby LJ Hooker Boyne Tannum, which was sold by long-time licensee Vicki Brown after more than three decades in operation.
A key term of the condition of sale was that the business would remain part of the LJ Hooker network.
“The stars aligned — we were ready for a change of branding, and this was an opportunity to bring together two strong, community-focused teams under a trusted national brand,” Ms Holgate said.
“There hadn’t been an LJ Hooker agency in Gladstone for a few years, so the timing was perfect for us. It spoke volumes to us about the strength of the brand when Vicki would only sell if the business continued as part of the LJ Hooker network.
“It also reinforces a commitment to stability, growth and protecting the value that has been built up over 30 years, and we are happy to carry on knowing it is such a respected business in the region.”
Ms Brown will remain in the business as a sales consultant and auctioneer, bringing continuity to the operation.
Gladstone, regarded as the ‘Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef,’ is situated approximately 25 minutes from the coastal twin communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. Separated by the Boyne River but connected through lifestyle and opportunity, the region is poised for continued growth and prosperity.
Mr English said the rebranding and expansion will allow the team to build on their already successful operations and better serve the local community.
“We are now strengthened by a name that has stood for trust and innovation for nearly a century, giving us the strength, scale and ability to reach a wider market,” he said.
LJ Hooker’s Head of Growth for Australia and New Zealand, Jarita Rayasam, congratulated Ron, Lissa, and the Gladstone team on completing the successful rebranding and acquisition of the Boyne Tannum office.
“Selling a real estate business that you have built over three decades is never an easy decision and it is not one that is simply done for commercial reasons,” Ms Rayasam said.
“It is important to find someone who will carry forward the relationships, the trust and the reputation that has been built up over the years. LJ Hooker is a brand that means something to its franchise owners, it is not just a name above the door, but a legacy that comes with a genuine sense of belonging and collaboration.”
