After being in the real estate industry for five years, Jesse decided to open the doors of Mulligan Property Group (MPG).

Being aged in his mid-twenties, Jesse has faced countless obstacles in the business world and still does today. The MPG company philosophy adopts two words – determination and resolution – that are each a reflection of Jesse’s personality.

MPG is the result of Jesse Mulligan’s dream to create and build a boutique real estate agency with an attentive and courageous culture. MPG is now evolving into a full-service firm focusing on residential sales, property management and project development work for many clients in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Hunter Valley regions. 

• What career path led you to where you are now?

Property has always been a personal interest of mine. I enjoy seeing suburbs develop over time and properties appreciate and depreciate in value for different reasons. One of the main interests for me is market trends. Even throughout my schooling years, I have always had an interest in statistics in all fields.

When I started in the real estate industry some time ago, I honestly did not have a clue about the day-to-day operations within a firm. I was fortunate enough to be taken in and trained by a highly recognised office in Newcastle under the leadership of Andrew Walker.

There is only so much you can learn from study, text books and scripts; there is no greater learning then in a practical, real environment.

I would not be where I am today without the knowledge passed on by Andrew.

• What motivates and drives you?

I feel personal motivation comes from both your work and home environment. Motivation is key to any business, however you need to make sure while you are trying to continuingly stay motivated, your team is as well. What drives me to succeed is the expansion of this enterprise from the base line. I have found beginning an independent office instead of a national franchise is more personal to me and particularly thrives upon my motivation to succeed.

• What has been your biggest learning curve in your career?

I believe the biggest learning curve in my career would be the ability to manage time. Time management can be easily overlooked if your work becomes busy and many people come into a situation where they are working long hours without reward. I have found procedure, organisation and staff delegation within a team environment has worked for me.

Each night I set daily goals and plan for the next day ahead. You have to be prepared to handle sudden situations that may present themselves during the day. That’s why it’s important to maintain great relationships with your team as they can offer assistance to the greater balance and maximisation of your day.

Planning is everything both in your personal and work life.

• Where would you like to be in 10 years?

Ideally, in ten years I would like to be in a position to expand the enterprise into franchise offices. The MPG team’s forecasted goals are set in place from as short as one year to a twenty year succession plan.

• Have you had any significant Hunter-based mentors during your career that inspire you?

I strongly believe mentors can show themselves in your immediate vicinity. Like many others, I listen, study and read about many great entrepreneurs on all levels, from Sir Richards Branson to outstanding young real estate agents. What I have found personally is that the people around you, with the right balance of a business and positive attitude, are most influential in your day-to-day lives.

These individuals can either be your fellow employees, your friends and family or your partner. For me, I have to recognise a local law firm in Wallsend whose team has been nothing but supportive in giving advice, business knowledge and such an outstanding mindset in the business world. Phil, Ben and George along with the team at O’Hearn Lawyers will always be acknowledged for the MPG achievement in years to come.

With thanks to Hunter Young Professionals who Hunter Headline collaborated with to source this interviewee.