Australia’s most iconic real estate brand is strengthening its presence in the popular Tweed Coast and Northern Rivers region with the appointment of new operators for the LJ Hooker Kingscliff office.
A franchise agreement has been signed by long-time employee Rhiannon Bald and local property specialist Vanessa Rhodes, who will be expanding the business and capitalising on migration to the coastal hotspot and surrounding areas.
Ms Bald spent her childhood holidays in Kingscliff with her family before making the town her permanent home after finishing school.
A decade ago, she joined LJ Hooker, initially as a receptionist, before working in all aspects of the business, including sales, property management, holiday lettings, office management and as a business development manager.
“I’m turning 30 this year—it is my 10th anniversary at LJ Hooker Kingscliff—and now I’ve bought the business with Vanessa, so it is a very special time,” she said.
“I am ready for this; I want to be here for the rest of my career. Vanessa and I make a great team and share the same goal.
“Our focus is on growing our rent portfolio and expanding our sales team to become the number one agency in this area.”
Ms Rhodes is excited to return to the LJ Hooker network having previously operated a franchise in nearby Pottsville.
A real estate veteran, she has worked across various sectors of the industry, including residential sales, commercial leasing and training.
“LJ Hooker Kingscliff is different to the smaller independent agencies in this area because we are part of a much larger network and with that comes many benefits,” Ms Rhodes said.
“We are not just an island in the sea; we are part of a stronghold of wonderful offices and agents spanning the region from the Gold Coast to Ballina.
“And while we are all independently owned and operated, there is incredible support and the ability to learn from one another.
“For us, it will be about providing quality service and care to every segment of the community, whether it is working with first homebuyers, investors, someone looking to move from interstate to a luxury beachfront home or secure a rental property.”
LJ Hooker Head of Network Australia Chris Keating welcomed Ms Bald and Ms Rhodes as the new operators of LJ Hooker Kingscliff, a key player in regional NSW market.
Affordability and new infrastructure, including the opening earlier this year of the $723.3 million new Tweed Valley Hospital, continue to make the area a popular choice across all demographics.
Mr Keating also acknowledged and congratulated outgoing licensee-in-charge Paul McMahon, who founded the agency 35 years ago.
Mr McMahon has sold the business but will continue in a mentoring role, ensuring a smooth transition for the new owners.
“Many principals and licensees-in-charge are often so focused on the day-to-day demands of their business that they overlook what will happen when they take a step back from the business,” Mr Keating said.
“Succession planning is essential, and to be able to hand over the reins to an enthusiastic and talented operator such as Rhiannon, who has grown up with the business and knows the running inside and out, is a great strategy.
“It is also wonderful to welcome Vanessa back to the network, bringing with her a wealth of local and industry knowledge. This marks an exciting next chapter for the business.”
The franchise agreement also coincides with extensive renovations on the LJ Hooker Kingscliff office, which lost its second storey in a destructive cyclone in March.
“We are now completely revamping the look of our office, it will be fabulous,” Ms Bald said.
“We also have new marketing ready to go, database emails to send and signboards; we are keen to see LJ Hooker Kingscliff back in the spotlight.”
