Former directors unite to launch independent commercial agency

Additionally, MAKER Property will provide property management services to asset owners, with their core client base spanning family offices, developers, SME owners and high-net-worth investors.

Kirwan said the decision to branch out from Cushman & Wakefield and launch their own business came from a shared ambition and connection built over 10 years of working together.

“George, Raph and I have built genuine trust in each other’s judgement, integrity and ability over a decade of working together. The launch of MAKER is our opportunity to bring that experience into a business where clients deal directly with the owners,” Kirwan said.

“For a client, that means direct access to the people responsible for the advice, the campaign and the negotiation. We want that accountability to be clear from the first conversation through to settlement.”

Davies said shifting client expectations and Melbourne’s relative value compared to other capitals played a key role in the agency's launch.

He said the trio saw an opportunity to create a commercial business that combined institutional experience with the speed and personalisation of an independent.

“The commercial property market has changed considerably over the past five years, and so has the way clients want to work with their advisers,” Davies said.

“In this environment, being selective and having access to the right information is critical. Our focus is on helping clients identify where value exists and executing the right strategy to capture it.”

Favas said the trio's combined experience and existing network connections gave the business a strong foundation to navigate shifting market conditions.

He said the trio were all at the right stage of their careers to dedicate themselves to the new venture

“We have spent a decade working through both the rising and falling property markets and building relationships across Melbourne,” Favas said.