Estate agency changes hands

An Ettalong real estate agency has had a change in ownership.

Laing and Simmons has been acquired by the Dearlove family, joined by agent Greg McMullen.

Principal Mr Ray Dearlove said he was delighted that Greg McMullen had agreed to join his team.

"Greg has forged a successful career in real estate on the Peninsula through hard work and a solid commitment to customer service."

Mr Dearlove is also joined by son Kevin and wife Margaret.

The family is passionate about sport, with both Kevin and his brother, Paul, having represented Australia at rugby union.

Kevin played for Australian Schools and Paul for the Australia under-21 team.

Hayley, the couple's daughter, is a keen netball and hockey player.

"The level of activity has really picked up in the past month or so.

"There is increasing interest in Outrigger and the Club appears to be doing a roaring trade.

"All of this is really good news for the area," said Mr Dearlove.

"We don't expect a rise in interest rates in the next six months and, like other agents, there is a shortage of quality rental accommodation.

"We are quietly optimistic about 2005."

Other members of the team are Brian Lang on the sales team, and June and James Webster from Ettalong Beach heading up the property management division.

"June's smile and James' dry sense of humour make every day enjoyable," said Mr Dearlove.

Press release, January 5 Ray Dearlove, Laing and Simmons