Could your Lutwyche property be worth more than you think?

Find out how this Seller Achieved $1.75M selling two homes next to each other to a developer

When Jim O’Hare decided to sell his two cottages in Lutwyche, he knew it wouldn’t be an easy sale. One of the properties needed major renovations, and the fact they were located next door to a boarding house added further challenges. However, when he engaged Brad Walker from Best Use Real Estate (pictured right), Jim found an agent who was relentless in his pursuit of the best possible outcome.

“Brad’s very enthusiastic,” Jim says. “He had approached me several times about the properties and gave me the idea that they could be sold to a developer rather than to end users to get a better price. I think it was his enthusiasm that won me over.”

Selling two properties together as a development site is a complex process, requiring more than just a standard real estate listing. Brad knew that traditional buyers might not see the full value of the site, so he targeted developers who would appreciate its potential uplift.

“He fielded lots of inquiries from both individual buyers and developers,” Jim explains. “Ultimately, he believed that developers would offer the best price, and that’s exactly what happened.”

Brad’s tireless approach to the sale saw him going well beyond the typical role of a real estate agent. From arranging site inspections and surveys to dealing with tenants and even liaising with town planners, Brad handled every detail to ensure the sale progressed smoothly.

“He did an awful lot of work on the job,” Jim says. “He worked the developer and several others through a lot of inquiries. He went over and above—going to site, arranging inspections, measure-ups, surveys, and even helping deal with the tenants where my property managers were, frankly, quite hopeless.”

The presence of tenants in both cottages, along with the neighboring boarding house, added further complications. However, Brad’s friendly and professional approach meant he was able to navigate these challenges with ease.

“He got everyone on side,” Jim says. “Even one of the tenants who saw an opportunity to capitalize on the situation—Brad overcame that and did what was required to get the deal over the line. It was very difficult to achieve, really.”

Jim describes Brad as being “like a dog with a bone” when it came to securing the sale.

“The developers asked for multiple extensions, and there were plenty of times when a seller might have walked away,” Jim recalls. “But Brad made sure I was kept happy and out of it. He kept the deal alive, and I was pretty impressed that he managed to do that.”

Brad’s expertise in dealing with multiple buyers, cold-calling developers, and creating competition between interested parties ultimately led to a sale price of $1.75 million.

“Brad understood the value in the two properties,” Jim says. “He dismissed low-ball offers and persevered until he found the right buyer. He certainly earned his money, that’s for sure.”

One of the standout qualities that Jim appreciated was Brad’s honesty in pricing and his ability to navigate the ever-changing market.

“He’s realistic,” Jim says. “He worked away on it without bothering me with every little detail. I was overseas at the time, and I was really appreciative that I didn’t have to go through all the ups and downs.”

For sellers with development sites, working with an agent who understands the complexities of the process is crucial. From handling surveyors and town planners to negotiating terms that satisfy both seller and buyer, Brad went above and beyond to ensure a successful sale.

“It wouldn’t have been successful unless he stuck it out,” Jim says. “I was very pleased with the efforts he made. I’m sure most agents wouldn’t have gone to the trouble that he did.”

Brad himself is passionate about delivering the best possible results for his clients.

“My job is to get my clients the highest return on their property,” Brad says. “Sometimes that means looking beyond standard buyers and targeting developers who can see the full potential. It’s about persistence, strategy, and knowing how to navigate the process.”

For Jim, the results speak for themselves.

“I haven’t had too many agents who put in as much effort as Brad has,” he says. “He sees it through. He appreciates his clients and works hard. Anyone thinking of selling would be well advised to give him a crack.”

If you’re considering selling your property, particularly if it has development potential, Brad Walker’s expertise and determination could help you achieve a better result than you imagined. Reach out to Brad at Best Use Real Estate to explore your options today.

To find out what your home is worth today please contact Brad Walker - Best Use Real Estate for a FREE report on 0448 887 937.