REIQ reveals Queensland’s best business broker

On February 6th, 2015 the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) held the annual gala awards night. More than 500 guests attended the event — including State MPs from both major political parties at Brisbane City Hall. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the awards recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Queensland real estate profession. ‘‘The REIQ Awards for Excellence are considered the pinnacle of achievement for real estate practitioners in Queensland,’’ she said. ‘‘They recognise the best and brightest real estate professionals from across the State. ‘‘Finalists are judged on professionalism and best practice, gaining recognition not only for their exceptional achievements but also for their commitment to integrity in the profession. ‘‘We had a number of first-time winners last night with some having been finalists for many years before being named the State’s best. There were only two finalists for the Business Broker of the Year Award. Both finalists work with Benchmark Business Sales and Valuations. The finalists are Lincoln Bridge and Ian Salter. Ian Salter had been a finalist for the last three years, and Ian was this year's winner. Ian said that "hard work and persistence pay off"…. He thanked his colleagues – especially Lincoln Bridge, and the Benchmark Principal – Bruce Coudrey. Ian also thanked the Benchmark administration team – for their support and assistance. Ian specialises in the sale of franchised businesses – and he works with a team of specialists in that area. As this year's winner Ian now travels to Perth on March 12th to represent Queensland in the REIA (Real Estate Institute of Australia) Awards. This was Lincoln Bridge's first year as an entrant in the awards. Lincoln specialises in the sale of larger businesses, and strategic acquisition for public companies and private equity groups. 2014 was a record year for sale at Benchmark Business Sales, and the company (which was established in 1999) has seen consistent growth each year since establishment. The Principal of benchmark said that the growth in the company has been entirely a result of the quality of the people working in the company – dedicated professionals like Ian and Lincoln." We are very lucky to be able to work with guys like Lincoln and Ian" said Mr Coudrey.