A New Year Sees a New Office Opening for LJ Hooker in Lake Macquarie

Australia’s most iconic real estate brand has continued its expansion in the growing Lake Macquarie region with the launch of LJ Hooker Dudley | Redhead – in time for the peak summer period.   

The exciting new office is set to officially open its doors on New Year's Eve and will be run by sales agent Tegan O’Doherty and property manager Gabrielle Darcy.

The pair who have known each other professionally for many years describe themselves as more than just a real estate office, saying they will be ‘dedicated guides, community advocates and a team committed to providing exceptional service with a personal touch’. 

“We believe that every person deserves exceptional service, uniquely tailored to them,” said Ms O’Doherty, who was previously the owner of LJ Hooker Belmont.

“The first time I met Gabrielle she was managing one of my investment properties and we just got to know one another. We share the same genuine passion for serving people. We plan on surpassing expectations and making the real estate experience enjoyable.”  

Their new office, which is styled with a coastal vibe, is located at Redhead and 1km from the area’s only patrolled beach.

The business will focus on the suburbs of Dudley, Redhead, Whitebridge and Kahibah which offer a range of housing from beachside mansions to holiday cabins. The area is popular with upgraders, downsizers, renovators, and aspirational buyers. It also attracts young families wanting a relaxed beach lifestyle. 

General Manager of Network, Stephen Mutton congratulated Ms O’Doherty and Ms Darcy on the opening of the new LJ Hooker Dudley | Redhead. 

“We are very excited to welcome Tegan back to the LJ Hooker family as the previous owner of LJ Hooker Belmont,” Mr Mutton said. 

“Joining with Gabi will create a new powerhouse partnership to serve the ever-popular and growing Lake Macquarie area.” 

Ms O’Doherty started her career at LJ Hooker in the Hunter region and has remained with the brand for most of her 14-year career. After handing over the reins of LJ Hooker Belmont to her young prodigy, she last year moved into HR and operations for a commercial agency in Newcastle but missed customer interaction and is keen to return to residential sales. 

“My personal connection with LJ Hooker goes beyond business; it's been a significant part of my family,” she said.

“It's where I met my husband, developed as a business owner and leader, and where my children were raised. I wouldn’t be anywhere else.”

Ms Darcy set up her own independent property management business called Hott Property a decade ago. She is delighted to be joining LJ Hooker and is looking forward to embracing everything the network has to offer. 

“Tegan and I have the same high energy and similar personalities but we like different aspects of the business so that will bring a balance to our teamwork,” Ms Darcy said. 

“It feels like a milestone to be joining LJ Hooker and when I announced it on social media and to my clients, I was inundated with messages of support and congratulations. It is a brand that everyone knows, and I can see the advantages of being a part of this super brand.

“I think it is very symbolic to be opening a new business, in a new location and in a new year.”

Also joining LJ Hooker Dudley | Redhead office are property manager Lauren Welsh and property management administration Kealey Murrell. Another new sales agent will join the team in February.