From mentor to partner: how recognising potential led to a new business

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Bilal Salameh, Larissa Schembri and Sam Nader.

LJ Hooker Bankstown | Moorebank is expanding its business in the Greater Western Region, appointing one of the network’s rising stars as a director of its new Liverpool office.

At just 28, Larissa Schembri will join her mentor and boss, Sam Nader, as a business partner in the venture. It is a dream come true for the young achiever who has been with the iconic real estate network for just three years.

“It has always been a goal of mine to have my own office as well as being a real estate agent,” Ms Schembri said.

“Liverpool is a city itself and is surrounded by high-growth areas. I’d developed a large market share in the area but to grow it even further we needed to open an office to give the brand an official presence and, luckily, everyone agreed.

“It is exciting to be able to take this next step in my career and I couldn’t be more grateful to have the support of my principal, Sam, and our other business partner, Bill Salameh, along the way.”

Head of Network Australia, Chris Keating, congratulated LJ Hooker Bankstown | Moorebank on their expansion into a dynamic Sydney market.

“LJ Hooker is counting down to its centenary celebrations, but it has remained strong and vibrant thanks in part to the next generation of up-and-coming agents and principals like Larissa,” he said.

“It is terrific when principals, such as Sam, recognise the potential of younger staff members and create pathways to advance careers within the network. This kind of mentorship is what makes LJ Hooker not just a franchise but a family.”

Ms Schembri grew up on the New South Wales Central Coast before moving to the Liverpool area, where she started a career in the construction sector.

At just 20, she purchased her first apartment in Warwick Farm, which further sparked her love of real estate. During the pandemic, she decided to make a career change into property. She initially worked with another local agency before joining LJ Hooker Bankstown | Moorebank.

Mr Nader recognised Ms Schembri’s potential on day one due to her willingness to learn, self-discipline and a growth mindset. In a short time, she excelled in sales and has been recognised as one of Sydney’s top 50 young agents.

“Quite simply, there is nobody who can outwork Larissa – she put in long hours without any complaints – sometimes we have to tell her it’s time to go home,” he said.

“It is remarkable what she has achieved in just three years; she is an inspiration for many young women in the area who are now considering a career in property and have asked her for mentoring.”

The new LJ Hooker Liverpool office, located in the heart of the suburb, officially opened its doors this week. The stylish premises feature contemporary finishes, including marble detailing.

“Liverpool is expected to become the third biggest city in New South Wales, and its proximity to the new Western Sydney International Airport – just 30 minutes away – will bring even more changes to the area, so it will be exciting to play a part in that transformation,” Ms Schembri said.

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