MEDIA RELEASE

February 10th 2021

Just a week after launch, Atlas by LJ Hooker today announced its expansion into Australia’s most desirable lifestyle market, Byron Bay.

Top agents Vanessa Coles and Helene Adams are spearheading the Byron team who, together, are bringing more than $40 million in real estate to the market in the coming weeks.

The luxury estate, Hercules Byron, is expected to attract international ARTISTS and creatives. It boasts a sound and production studio that complements its extensive facilities including a collection of private accommodation options ranging from two five-bedroom homes to intimate cottages, a purpose-designed training centre, and a championship sized tennis court and sweeping 180-degree ocean views from Byron Bay Lighthouse to Broken Head.

The listing is being sold in conjunction with Atlas founding partner, Michael Coombs, who late last year sold the spectacular Wategos beachfront home, 35 Marine Parade, for more than $20 million. Mr Coombs is based in Atlas’ office in Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

Ms Coles and Ms Adams, who previously worked together, have been residents of Northern NSW for more than 20 years.

“In Atlas, we have found a powerhouse that recognises the value of us and is committed to our future,” said Ms Coles.

“Today’s clients expect a knowledgeable agent that uses technology, targeted marketing and specialist support to create a highly personalised approach.

“The current real estate market is rapidly changing, and now is the perfect time for Atlas to deliver international expertise and know-how to Byron.”

Ms Adams said COVID had changed people’s way of living, meaning prestige buyers are increasingly choosing regional areas like Byron ahead of the big cities.

“Byron is creating a ripple effect for surrounding areas, particularly the hinterland, where we’re seeing up to 15 per cent more enquiry than for town addresses,” she said.

“About half the enquiries are locals looking to upsize or downsize, and the other half are Sydney and Melbourne buyers looking to secure a home in one of Australia’s most idyllic communities.

“We recognise this interest is ALSO putting pressure on locals who are witnessing a rapid gentrification of the area and look forward to Byron Shire Council’s response.”

Christine Mikhael, Chief Performance Officer of the LJ Hooker Group, said: “Vanessa and Helene’s knowledge of Byron Bay and Northern NSW is unparalleled, and their client-first approach is perfectly aligned to the ethos of Atlas.

“It’s an exciting time to be joining Atlas, not only to launch the brand in a prestige market but to leverage the advanced tech platforms being developed by the LJ Hooker Group, which enables them as sales consultants to spend more time focusing on their clients and creating their ultimate outcomes.”

Atlas Byron Bay joins offices strategically positioned in prestige markets like the Lower North Shore and the Upper North Shore in Sydney and in Brisbane.