Starting a new business during a downturn was no small feat, but Ben embraced the challenge with determination.
“I thought, well, it’s not going to get any harder,” he recalled. “If we can make it in this, we’ll make it when the market changes … because it always has cycles.”
Even the logistical challenges of starting a business, such as securing credit for essentials like power and phone lines, were met with resolve.
“I remember Ergon asking for a bond, and I thought, I’m not going anywhere!
“But they’d seen businesses fail before, so I understood.”
Despite the uphill battle, within six months Explore Property became the number one agency in Mackay for listings and sales.
Ben attributes this rapid success to perseverance and his commitment to delivering exceptional service.
“People need to trust you,” he said. “When you’re new, there’s a bit of hesitation; people wait to see if you’ll last. But we stayed focused, and that trust grew over time.”
Raising the bar
Ben’s vision for Explore Property went beyond selling houses; he wanted to create a workplace where people could thrive.
“I wanted to build a place where people feel happy and valued,” he explained.
“If they’re happy at work, they’re more likely to go home happy too. And if they’re struggling at home, work can be a safe place for them.”
His approach to leadership also had a ripple effect on the local industry.
“When we opened our modern office, it motivated other agencies to step up,” Ben said.
“They started renovating their spaces and improving their operations. It’s something I love about real estate – when one agency raises the bar, the whole market improves, and that benefits everyone.”
Explore Property at Mackay has since achieved more than 4,000 property sales, an impressive milestone for a regional agency.
“It’s a number we’re proud of,” Ben said. “Especially in a market like Mackay, which is big but not massive. It shows what’s possible when you invest in people and stay ahead of the curve.”
Looking to the future
As Ben celebrates his 10th anniversary with Explore Property, he is already thinking about what’s next.
“The next 10 years are about continuing to lead, not chase,” he said.
“We’ve built our name; now it’s about refining what we do and finding new ways to serve our clients and team.”
And, while the industry often talks about succession planning, Ben isn’t ready to step away.
“I still love what I do,” he said. “As long as I have the energy and passion, I’ll keep going. It’s not just about running a business, it’s about making a difference in people’s lives.”
As Ben marks this milestone, he reflects on opening an Explore Property in Mackay after many years working at another agency.
“Starting with a clean slate was the best decision I ever made,” he said.
“It’s been tough, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I’m excited about what the future holds for us.
“We’ve invested in our people, marketing, and community, and that’s why we’re still here 10 years later.”
