One of LJ Hooker’s oldest offices - now owned by one of its youngest principals - is set to commemorate an incredible 50 years in business.

LJ Hooker Belmont first opened its doors at the Melvic Centre back in 1973 and will mark five decades of operations in the Lake Macquarie region with a special celebratory dinner. 

Principal, Steven Georgalas, bought the business when he was just 26 years old alongside his mother and business partner, Elizabeth Sever and they are thrilled to carry on its legacy. They are the fourth owners of the business and remain in regular contact with its former principals who act as their mentors. 

“It is a great honour to be taking LJ Hooker Belmont into its next chapter and to carry on the good name built by decades of excellent customer service,” he said.

“We were the first agency to open in Belmont and the only one still standing from the 1970s – others have come and gone or rebranded, but the LJ Hooker name has remained an integral part of our local community.

“We have an old ‘For Sale’ with a six-digit telephone number on it – well before even area codes were around - and it is a reminder of the long history of the network in our area. It is very important to us to carry on this legacy.”   

LJ Hooker General Manager of Network, Stephen Mutton congratulated LJ Hooker Belmont on its golden anniversary.

“It is a remarkable milestone to be celebrating 50 years in business and importantly, serving a regional community - we congratulate everyone on this achievement,” he said.

“It is wonderful to see a business of this tenure handed over to such an exceptional young individual, such as Steven. He has all the enthusiasm and determination to ensure that the business thrives and continues for decades to come.”

Mr Georgalas was given his break into the property industry at just 19, by former LJ Hooker Belmont principal Joshua O’Doherty. It wasn’t long before the young protégé was identified as the next successor for the business. Ms Sever has been instrumental in introducing new ideas for the brand and has big plans for its bright future. 

LJ Hooker Belmont has played a role in shaping the Lake Macquarie township by marketing multiple off-the-plan apartment projects. The office also holds the record for Belmont’s highest residential sale and has twice broken the East Lake Macquarie record. The area is popular with families, holidaymakers, and investors – many of whom have become repeat customers.  

“LJ Hooker Belmont is the place that gave me the start in real estate when no one else would, due to my age, which is also special to me,” Mr Georgalas said.

“It is wonderful to be able to take the business to the next generation of buyers and sellers – here is to another 50 years.”