After 25 years under another real estate brand, Professionals Port Augusta has emerged as part of the recently transformed national group with a fresh look and commitment to innovation.
The switch to Professionals was led by long-standing Port Augusta Principal, Greg Edwards, who has been at the helm for 15 years, and business partner Raeleen Podger, who has overseen the property management arm of the business for 25 years.
Professionals Port Augusta Manager, William Irons, said the office, located 300km north of Adelaide, was proud to be among the first in the country to receive the group’s full branding and new colours.
“The business decided to take the leap after a quarter of a century because we felt we weren’t getting the level of support we expected, despite paying high franchise fees,” Mr Irons said.
“We liked the concept of Professionals’ membership model and then we saw the new logo and branding – and it confirmed we were making the right decision.
“What’s really exciting is the suite of new tools and systems we can now access. New initiatives and cutting-edge technology keep rolling out from head office.”
Mr Irons said the transformation of the Port Augusta office in new colours and rebranding had been well received in the town.
“In a town with only four agencies, our modern new branding has helped us stand out and reinforce to locals that although we’ve got a new look, it’s the same great team they’ve known and trusted,” he said.
“We’re proud to have the largest rent roll in Port Augusta, with 650 properties under management and a growing team of eight. Our goal is to continue building on that, and now we have the right tools and support to do it.”
A born-and-bred local, Mr Irons joined the real estate industry just six months ago after working in the health sector, including managing a local pharmacy. A long-time property investor, he saw real estate as his next career chapter and has quickly taken on the role of sales manager.
He is currently working with two partners on a succession plan to invest in and eventually co-own the business.
Mr Irons said Port Augusta’s market remained strong, buoyed by steady demand as a key regional services hub.
“As a gateway to the Flinders Ranges and central Australia, Port Augusta services multiple government and industry sectors. With major employers like a hospital, prison, and the Roxby Downs mine, the town attracts a steady stream of both renters and buyers,” he said.
“Over the past six months we’ve seen a surge in investor interest, with several homes selling above listing prices.”
Professionals CEO Sean Hanneberry welcomed the Port Augusta team to the network, highlighting it as part of the group’s strategic expansion into South Australia following the recent addition of Professionals Adelaide City.
“Professionals Port Augusta brings with it a proud history of local service and the largest rent roll in the area. With ambitious plans for growth, they represent exactly the kind of forward-focused agency we’re building our future around,” Mr Hanneberry said.
“Our new digital partnerships and the establishment of a dedicated in-house creative agency are all designed to further empower and support our members in delivering outstanding results.”
The Professionals rebrand is rolling out across the group’s 190 offices throughout Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea, with every agency set to unveil the new look by the end of the year.
