Strategic recruitment supports growth plans for busy WA office

mark murrayLJ Hooker Property South West is set to expand its footprint into Margaret River, announcing a key new appointment ahead of setting up an office in the growing coastal region.

Principal Brent Spooner welcomed Mark Murray, a specialist in the field, to their team, who brings more than a decade of real estate experience and a background in agriculture and small business. He will work remotely until new premises open next year.

LJ Hooker Property South West has offices in Bunbury, Busselton, Collie and Dunsborough, with Margaret River and a yet-to-be-announced location now 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,” Mr Spooner 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.

“We will keep doing what we have done and look to replicate that success achieved in other areas. We are thrilled to have Mark on board, and that adds to our confidence. We’ve known each other for some time, and he is the right person to drive the new venture.”

Mr Murray is based in the Margaret River Shire, Cape to Cape and Cowaramup region; he serves on the REIWA Rural Committee and is Vice President of the Lower South West Group, reflecting his support for the local agricultural community. He moves from Ray White Stocker Preston.

“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.

LJ Hooker General Manager, Marketing, Stephan Gervois, congratulated Mr Spooner on taking a different approach to expansion by building a strong market presence before committing to a traditional office.

"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," he 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. We are having conversations with talented people who see where we are headed and want to be part of the next chapter for one of Australia's most iconic and loved brands."

Before commencing his real estate career in 2012, Mr Murray spent more than 15 years farming broadacre properties and operating his own business, providing him with a unique and practical understanding of rural properties and the communities that surround them.

“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. 

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