Mark Murray has joined LJ Hooker Property South West ahead of the agency’s planned expansion into Margaret River, bringing more than a decade of real estate experience and a background in agriculture and small business.
Principal Brent Spooner said Murray would work remotely until new premises open in the region next year, adding to the network’s existing offices in Bunbury, Busselton, Collie and Dunsborough. A sixth, yet-to-be-announced location is also in the planning.
“This is the next spot for us because it is where people want to live and holiday; without a doubt, Margaret River is just one of the best places in Australia,” Brent said.
“We have expanded into new areas many times now and usually within 12 months we have gained good market share or are leading the pack, so we are excited about our new plans.”
Murray is based in the Margaret River Shire, Cape to Cape and Cowaramup region, where he serves on the REIWA Rural Committee and as Vice President of the Lower South West Group. Before starting his real estate career in 2012, he spent more than 15 years farming broadacre properties and running his own business.
“LJ Hooker has a can-do attitude which is very appealing, and it was important for my clients to see a recognisable brand behind me and their response has been very positive,” he said.
“We’ve known each other for some time, and he is the right person to drive the new venture,” Brent added.
LJ Hooker General Manager of Marketing Stephan Gervois said building a local presence ahead of opening an office reflected a considered approach to entering a new market.
“Putting an agent of Mark’s calibre on the ground is a smart strategy when entering a new market as it places people and local knowledge at the centre of growth,” Stephan said.
“Good businesses attract good people. Brent’s leadership paired with the strength of the LJ Hooker brand is exactly the combination that draws high-calibre agents, and we are finding quality people want to be part of the network because of our culture, support and genuine opportunities.
“There is momentum building as we countdown to our centenary celebrations and that is translating into strong recruitment,” he said.
Murray said the south west’s property market covered a wide range of asset types.
“We have a diverse market in the south west; I will be covering a broad aspect of sales that includes residential, land, rural and commercial, which are all acting differently at the moment, but it is exciting to be part of a new office in the region,” he said.