LJ Hooker's newly-crowned agent-of-the-year doesn't sell waterfront mansions at Mosman, beachfront villas in Byron Bay or Georgian compounds in Toorak.

Indeed, the addresses that Marcel Elias sells and leases are at least 40 minutes by car from the nearest harbour or beach view.

The co-Principal of LJ Hooker Commercial Silverwater is a leading specialist in the centre of Western Sydney’s industrial revolution.

He’s sought-after by high net-worth investors through to A-REITs wanting his expertise and guidance as industrial assets play a heightened role in the new economy.

The value of prime quality industrial property increased 10 per cent in Western Sydney in the 12 months to March, following a 16 per cent rise the year before, according to LJ Hooker Commercial’s recently released Industrial Market Monitor. 

On the back of changing consumer habits, transport and logistics specialists have been responsible for the rise in values as they position themselves to cater to rising e-retail.

LJ Hooker Commercial Managing Director Mathew Tiller said Mr Elias was amongst Australia’s leading property professionals. 

“The ‘top agent’ awards usually go to the specialists servicing the blue-chip neighbourhoods around Australia,” said Mr Tiller.

“This top acknowledgment for Marcel represents two things: his unmatched sales, leasing and advisory services for clients and the culture of excellence at LJ Hooker Commercial Silverwater, which also accounted for the third best performing agent in the Group, John Tanna.

“But (the award) also represents the leading role central and western Sydney plays as the engine-room of Australia’s evolving economy.

“Marcel ensure his clients capitalise on the new economy, delivering real value to their business and investment decisions.”

Mr Elias’s award recognises the Group’s business owner that transacted more property - in value terms - than any other selling principal. 

Whilst he’s had a highly productive year, Mr Elias said there were still inherent challenges in the commercial marketplace.

“Invariably, the tenants who we are leasing properties to are businesses that import goods and distribute them to Australian consumers,” he said.

“But the volume of sales is historically low and that’s directly attributable to the low listings – a by-product of the (Banking) Royal Commission.

"A lot of investors, in particular, have delayed divesting because of the limited opportunities to re-invest.

“There’s an undersupply of properties, but plenty of ready buyers wanting to acquire industrial assets."

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