McGrath expands its Riverina footprint to include regional centre of Cootamundra

McGrath Estate Agents announces the expansion of its Riverina operations to include the key regional centre of Cootamundra. This extension of the McGrath Riverina network comes three years after McGrath launched in the area with offices in Temora, Narrandera, Wagga Wagga, Forbes and Leeton.

Lachlan Pellow of the Pellow family’s McGrath Riverina operations will lead the team as principal at McGrath Cootamundra along with co-directors Andrew Pellow, Craig Pellow and Bev Pellow. He is delighted to be transitioning the highly respected Ron Loiterton Real Estate business to the McGrath network. “Ron Loiterton Real Estate has played an important role in servicing the area for over 120 years,” said Mr Pellow. “This transition represents a natural evolution — one built on shared values, long-standing relationships, and a genuine commitment to the region.”

Chris Mourd, Head of Franchise Network for McGrath, said "Expanding the McGrath Riverina group into Cootamundra is a considered move. Regional NSW is our country’s heartland —where some of the most loyal, passionate clients live and invest, and they deserve access to the same systems, training and brand strength that McGrath delivers in Sydney or Melbourne for example.

"When you have a family like the Pellows — with the experience, the local knowledge and the appetite to expand — our role at McGrath is to back them completely,” added Mr Mourd. “That's what we've done here, and I have no doubt they'll set a new standard for real estate transactions in the Cootamundra region."

Mr Pellow said the opportunity to continue the legacy of a trusted local business, while strengthening it with the systems, support and marketing reach of McGrath made the decision a meaningful one.

“Both businesses are family-owned and relationship-driven and that alignment provides a strong foundation for this next chapter,” he said.

“Opening under the McGrath Riverina banner allows us to retain the local knowledge and personalised service the community expects,” added Mr Pellow. “We can now introduce broader network exposure, modern marketing capabilities and additional resources to better serve our vendors, buyers, and investors across the district.”

Key staff including office manager Joanne Hall, sales agent Danielle Phillips, assistant property manager Natalie Deep and front office manager Virginia Chick will remain with the business.

Market Commentary

The Riverina property market continues to show steady resilience, supported by the region’s strong agricultural base and diverse local economy. Mr Pellow said, “Regional communities like Cootamundra remain highly appealing to buyers looking for affordability, space, and a genuine sense of connection. This consistent lifestyle appeal has helped underpin ongoing demand.

“In Cootamundra specifically, the past 12 months have seen a strong and competitive market, particularly for well-presented homes,” added Mr Pellow. “Quality properties have attracted solid enquiry levels, often generating interest from both local residents upgrading within the area and buyers from outside the region who recognise the long-term value and lifestyle the town offers.”  

He noted that downsizers choosing to remain part of the community have also continued to play an important role in market activity.

“In an environment like this, thoughtful presentation, considered pricing, and strategic marketing reach can make a meaningful difference to outcomes,” said Mr Pellow. “By combining deep local knowledge with the broader McGrath network across the Riverina and beyond, we’re well positioned to connect Cootamundra properties with the right buyers while maintaining the personalised service the community expects. We remain confident in the long-term strength and stability of the local market.”

Recent sales

The median house price in Cootamundra has risen 7 per cent over the past 12 months to $460,000.

Rental yields are sitting at 5.4 per cent.*

32 Crown Street, Cootamundra in March – $465,000

73 Centenary Avenue, Cootamundra in January - $520,000

193 Thompson Street, Cootamundra in December - $474,000

Mr Pellow said the McGrath Cootamundra team combines deep local knowledge with the support of a broader Riverina and national network. This combination allows them to offer both personalised service and expanded buyer reach.

“Having operated within the McGrath network for several years, we have refined our systems, negotiation processes, and marketing platforms to ensure our clients achieve the strongest possible outcomes without losing the personal service that regional clients value,” said Mr Pellow.

“Most importantly, we have a long-term commitment to Cootamundra and the wider Riverina region ensuring the town continues to be supported by a professional, well-resourced agency with deep local roots.”

McGrath Cootamundra opens with a Property Management operation of over 200 residential properties, 25 commercial spaces, 150 storage units and nine strata complexes.

McGrath Cootamundra

207 Parker Street, Cootamundra

Ph: 02 6942 2344

Data by Cotality