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LJ Hooker is growing its presence in the Illawarra region with the rebranding of three offices.
LJ Hooker has further strengthened its foothold in the Illawarra market, with the rebranding of three prominent local offices that will now be led by real estate veteran Martin Merritt.
Initially approached to acquire the rent roll of LJ Hooker Wollongong from retiring LJ Hooker Wollongong principal Chris Stylis, Merritt opted to take a bigger step after discussions with LJ Hooker’s strategic growth team. As a result, his three offices in Corrimal, Shellharbour and Wollongong have been rebranded under the LJ Hooker banner.
Merritt, who began his real estate career at 18, is a well-known figure in the Illawarra region, both as a real estate professional and a dedicated community volunteer.
He met with the LJ Hooker team in Sydney after acquiring Stylis’ rent roll but had no intention of switching until the meeting convinced him.
What started as a simple rent roll acquisition evolved into a new venture for Merritt.
“It was quite a big rent roll so, from a business point of view, it was easier to stay with the same brand, same staff, and same locations,” said Merritt, who has 35 years of industry experience under his belt.
Merritt was particularly drawn to the extensive support and scale of the operation, recognising the benefits it would provide his staff.
“Joining the LJ Hooker network will enable my team to attend events and learn from other successful agents, which will boost their skills and motivation,” he stated.
LJ Hooker head of Network Australia Chris Keating weighed in on the brand’s expansion in the Illawarra region, noting that while the network has had a longtime presence in Wollongong, this move bolsters the brand in what he considers to be an important market while also leaving the door open to “expand it with additional new offices”.
While acknowledging the work of longtime LJ Hooker Wollongong principal Stylis, Keating welcomed Merritt’s extensive experience and leadership in the industry.
“Martin brings vast knowledge, an outstanding reputation, and a passion for real estate,” he stated.
“He has already been collaborating with other offices in the region such as Albion Park and Sanctuary Point; working on new developments and projects showcasing great teamwork and Leadership.”
With the rebranding of his three offices nearing completion, Merritt has seen an increase in appraisals ahead of the busy market as buyers look to the Illawarra region for affordable alternatives to Sydney.
“There is a fabulous opportunity to make LJ Hooker more prominent throughout the region and increase our market share, which also includes the commercial sector,” Merritt said.
“With Sydney property prices at a premium, buyers are looking at the lifestyle and affordability of the Illawarra. Before the pandemic, people only knew of suburbs such as Bulli, Shellharbour and Wollongong, but since then all the little towns such as Oak Flats, Windang and Warilla have come onto the map after being undervalued for so long.”
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