In a significant achievement for LJ Hooker Ballina, four family members have joined a distinguished group within the iconic real estate network, collectively contributing 120 years of service.
Principal Michael Shay, who has been at the helm for 53 years, has been joined in the business by his three sons, Kent, Luke and Dean, all of whom have now reached the milestone of 21 years of continuous service.
The family recently attended a special luncheon in Sydney celebrating those within the LJ Hooker network who have reached the 21 years milestone and beyond.
“Working together is just something I never expected, and I’m very proud of my sons,” Mr Shay said.
“They grew up around real estate, coming into the office after school or the occasional auction, but they all went off to explore different careers.”
Kent was previously with the Commonwealth Bank in Brisbane, Dean worked as a town planner in London, and Luke was based in Melbourne before they each decided to return home and join the family business.
“This year was the first time the four of us could be there together at the LJ Hooker 21 Club. A lovely presentation was made to us; it was just very special,” Mr Shay said.
Christine Mikhael, LJ Hooker’s Chief Executive Officer, said it is a wonderful achievement for four family members to join the 21 Club.
“We’ve calculated that together, the Shay family has dedicated 120 years to the LJ Hooker network, which is an outstanding legacy of loyalty,” Ms Mikhael said.
“This annual event is about recognising those who have dedicated 21 years of continuous service to the brand. No matter the role, from receptionist to business owner, the club is about commitment.”
Kent, 46, who is principal of LJ Hooker Lennox Head, was the first of the brothers to join the 21 Club. Dean, 48, specialises in commercial sales, while Luke, 44, a residential sales agent, is one of the youngest ever to join the 21 Club.
Luke reflected on his journey into real estate, which wasn’t his initial career plan.
“In my early 20s, I went travelling overseas and ended up in Melbourne in a communications sales job that I really wasn’t enjoying,” Mr Shay said.
“I’d grown up in real estate but never thought I’d ever do it. Once I started, I knew I’d be here for a while. The past 21 years have gone extremely quickly, but it is nice to be at this point in my career and be recognised.”
The family has witnessed significant growth in their region over the past decade, particularly around Cumbalum to Lennox Head.
“Every day in this job is different, it is never boring and working with family is great,” Mr Shay said.
“We do tend to talk a bit about work when we get together outside of the office, but it is good to bounce ideas off each other.”
“Helping people make the move is one of the best parts of the job.”
