Experienced sales agents Tony and Nadine Wilkie are the new principals of Raine & Horne North Lakes, following an approach from former owner Gina Wells.
Ms Wells, who commenced with Raine & Horne in 2002, will continue to lead the successful Burpengary and Morayfield offices.
Mr Wilkie, who started in real estate in 2009 after a career as a fitter and turner, said Ms Wells had done a great job and felt the Wilkie’s 10 years of experience in North Lakes could take the business to the next level.
Mr Wilkie, who has sold 450 properties in North Lakes and surrounding suburbs, said owning a business is a long-term dream for the real estate couple.
“The North Lakes real estate market is under-serviced, and we believe that with our established success selling properties in this region, we have the perfect credentials to run a successful office,” he said.
Mr Wilkie will lead the sales team, while Mrs Wilkie, who started in real estate in 2014, is also involved with appraising, listing and selling real estate.
“When we go to an appraisal, vendors get the benefit of ‘Team Wilkie’,” she said.
Raine & Horne North Lakes also offers property management service.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the spring market, Mr Wilkie said the signs for vendors are positive.
“The North Lakes market turned a corner in August thanks to a combination of successive interest rate cuts, a more confident political outlook and a relaxing of bank lending requirements,” Mr Wilkie commented.
“We have seen an increase in listings by 20 per cent since June while there are more buyers in the market, which is typified by more properties selling in less than a week of being listed.”
To illustrate, an immaculate four-bedroom house featuring an in-ground heated pool with built-in spa and water feature at 29 Couples Street North Lakes went under offer for $705,000 in less than a week in late September.
“This property attracted multiple offers and sold to a family from Sydney who recognised the value for money North Lakes offers,” Mr Wilkie said.
“North Lakes is only 40 minutes north of the Brisbane CBD via the M3, and just 20 minutes to Brisbane Airport.
“Homes similar to 29 Couples Street within 40 minutes of the Sydney CBD sell for plenty more than $1 million.
“Moreover, this region is well-served with big shopping centres, schools, while the University of the Sunshine Coast is set to open its Petrie campus in February. This combination of factors is attracting more interstate buyers.”
