McGrath has acquired Ron Loiterton Real Estate in Cootamundra, absorbing a business that has operated in the regional NSW town for more than 120 years.
The acquisition expands McGrath Riverina to six offices across the region, three years after the Pellow family launched the franchise operation with locations in Temora, Narrandera, Wagga Wagga, Forbes and Leeton.
Lachlan Pellow will lead the Cootamundra office as principal, alongside co-directors Andrew Pellow, Craig Pellow and Bev Pellow.
The transition brings a substantial property management operation – more than 200 residential properties, 25 commercial spaces, 150 storage units and nine strata complexes – into the McGrath network.
Key staff from Ron Loiterton Real Estate will remain with the business, including office manager Joanne Hall, sales agent Danielle Phillips, assistant property manager Natalie Deep and front office manager Virginia Chick.
“Ron Loiterton Real Estate has played an important role in servicing the area for over 120 years,” Lachlan said.
“This transition represents a natural evolution – one built on shared values, long-standing relationships, and a genuine commitment to the region.”
Chris Mourd, McGrath’s head of franchise network, framed the expansion as part of a deliberate regional strategy.
“Regional NSW is our country’s heartland – where some of the most loyal, passionate clients live and invest, and they deserve access to the same systems, training and brand strength that McGrath delivers in Sydney or Melbourne,” Chris said.
“When you have a family like the Pellows – with the experience, the local knowledge and the appetite to expand – our role at McGrath is to back them completely.”
The Cootamundra market has shown consistent demand over the past year. The median house price has risen 7 per cent to $460,000, with rental yields sitting at 5.4 per cent, according to data provider Cotality.
Lachlan noted that well-presented homes have attracted strong enquiry from both local upgraders and out-of-area buyers.
“Downsizers choosing to remain part of the community have also continued to play an important role in market activity,” he said.
McGrath Cootamundra operates from 207 Parker Street.