Double the drive: LJ Hooker Bay Islands expands to new market

Identical twins Mitchell and Trent Jamieson are expanding their unique real estate business, launching a second LJ Hooker office in the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, where the homes are only accessible by boat.

The move comes two decades after their father, Ray, now retired, opened an LJ Hooker franchise on Russell Island, one of four inhabited islands off the coast between the Gold Coast and Brisbane. The brothers, who had worked in the family business, took over as joint principals in 2015.

They have just signed a five-year renewal with the LJ Hooker network, with plans to extend their market share with a new franchise on nearby Macleay Island.

“Lifestyle and affordability are driving the market here, so we see this as a fabulous opportunity,” Mitchell said.

“While these are islands, it is more like country living with a bush and beach feel. People are selling up their multimillion-dollar properties and coming to a place like Russell Island, where you can buy a new home for around $650,000. It frees up equity to go and enjoy life.”

Head of Network Australia, Christopher Keating, congratulated the LJ Hooker Bay Islands team on their outstanding dedication and expansion plans in a growing market.

“Mitchell and Trent have a high turnover of sales and have established themselves as leaders within the community,” he said.

“The decision to take their experience and knowledge gained over the past 20 years and apply it to a similar but new market is a smart strategy. Homebuyers coming to the islands are willing to accept a commute in exchange for affordable property and a relaxed lifestyle.”

Approximately 6,500 people currently reside on Russell Island, primarily as owner-occupiers. It costs residents just 50 cents to take the SeaLink Ferry from Redlands Bay, which can take as little as 20 minutes. A car barge also operates, with sealed roads and a petrol station on the island, along with a local IGA supermarket, specialty shops, cafes and a police station.

Locals have long speculated that a bridge may eventually be built to connect to the mainland; a span of 8 kilometres, however, Trent says there is no rush, as the current system is working efficiently and doesn’t deter buyers or investors.

The twins, born eight minutes apart, have recently completed building a new LJ Hooker office on Russell Island, complete with additional commercial premises. It had been a dream of their father, who was delighted to see the project finished.

“People often get my brother, and I confused; they will say things like ‘didn’t I just see you down there?’,” Trent said.

“Being twins works in our favour because we work so well as a team, we know each other’s roles and what to do and how to do it.

“We wanted to renew our agreement with LJ Hooker because it is like family to us. We like everything with the brand, the network and the people. We’ve built a legacy here, and we are excited to take this next step with the business.”