Raine & Horne Commercial has strengthened its growing regional presence by launching a flagship office in the NSW Southern Highlands, spearheaded by award-winning real estate principal Matthew Anstee and leading commercial property specialist Lisa O’Neill.
Based in a purpose-built commercial property office in Mittagong, the new operation has already clocked up more than $11 million in sales since opening its doors, highlighting the region’s buoyant commercial property market.
The expansion is part of Raine & Horne Commercial’s ongoing strategy to meet growing demand in key regional hubs across Australia, joining other strategic offices across major commercial regional business hubs in NSW.
Raine & Horne CEO Chris Nicholl said the Southern Highlands economy is diverse and strategically located near major population centres such as Sydney and Canberra.
“The Southern Highlands is powered by a diverse and resilient economy, creating fantastic opportunities for small businesses looking for industrial, retail, and office space,” Mr Nicholl said.
“There is also strong interest from investors keen to secure high-quality commercial properties with solid, long-term leases.”
Mr Nicholl said the decision by Mr Anstee, backed by Ms O’Neill, to launch Raine & Horne Commercial Southern Highlands couldn’t have come at a better time.
“Matt is renowned for record-breaking sales and building exceptional business relationships, which are all underpinned by the highest level of professionalism,” he said.
“Lisa brings an incredible passion for commercial property, and her experience as an industrial property investor gives her a unique perspective that truly connects with vendors and buyers.”
The impressive early sales tally includes a prime industrial warehouse at Braemar, which sold for $2.27 million, a 1,000 square metre warehouse in Moss Vale for $3.3 million, and a 20,000 square metre prime industrial site with subdivision potential for $5 million.
Mr Anstee said the decision to expand into commercial real estate, adding Raine & Horne Commercial to his established residential and rural businesses, was driven by clear market demand.
“No one in the Southern Highlands truly offers dedicated commercial property sales and leasing,” he said.
“There are competitors focused on property management, but when it comes to sales and leasing with the backing of a major national brand such as Raine & Horne Commercial, there’s a real gap.
“We have the experience, the brand strength, and the expertise to deliver real results – and that’s exactly what we will do for our vendors, buyers, lessors and lessees.”
Ms O’Neill said commercial property sales activity in the Southern Highlands had gained momentum over the past 18 months, with estate planning playing a significant role.
“We’re seeing long-held family-owned properties come to market as owners look to restructure, divest, or plan for the next generation,” she said.
“For many, it’s simply the right time to sell, and this is creating new opportunities for buyers and investors.”
Ms O’Neill added that office, retail, and industrial properties with strong leases are attracting yields of 6-7 per cent.
“Properties with secure leases are performing well in the current market – price them correctly, and they’re selling,” she said.
The commercial specialist also noted that many local small businesses are now outgrowing existing spaces.
“We’re seeing strong demand from small business owners who started in their backyards or garages and are now looking for larger industrial, retail, or office spaces to support their growth,” she said.
