COVID-19 numbers are down, vaccinations are up, work from home is over, you're back in the office and it's suddenly hit you - you really don't like your job.
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If you're sick of that pesky work colleague or the commute to Sydney is slowly killing you, it could be time to consider becoming you own boss.
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Business demand surges post-lockdown
Two real estate agents at the forefront of the Illawarra's business selling market have revealed interest in commercial ventures is at an all-time high, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as a key reason for the rush to buy.
Enzo Conti, from Conti Business Brokers, and MMJ's Martin Lo Surdo, both said they have seen an upsurge in inquiries in recent weeks from people looking to purchase businesses post-lockdown.
"During COVID I received a lot of inquiries but most didn't eventuate to sales," Mr Conti said.
"Now people are coming out of lockdown we're getting serious interest and people are prepared to buy."
Mr Conti said people were telling him they were after a change in their life, particularly those who had been in their careers or vocations for a long time, but had had a shake-up due to lockdown.
"People have changed from the pandemic, they have decided they don't want to do what they were doing anymore," he said.
"They've also been at home earning an income, and their properties have increased in value, so people are using the equity in their homes to look at different opportunities.
Mr Conti said one client told him she had travelled to Sydney for 17 years for work, but now wanted to find something locally.
"She's been working from home during the pandemic and has decided she doesn't want to go back to driving and commuting, so she's looking to purchase a business," he said.
The demand for buying a profitable, proven business has never been higherMartin Lo Surdo, MMJ Real Estate
Martin Lo Surdo said people had expressed similar views when speaking to him about potential purchases.
"We've seen potential buyers that were employed in vulnerable industries, such as the arts, fitness and hospitality, enquire about businesses for sale that have performed well and remained profitable during the pandemic," he said.
"The motivation for getting into business has remained consistent in that we all want opportunities to make our life better.
"For many, owning a business means taking control of their financial future, self-determination, lifestyle and family flexibility.
"The changes brought upon us by the pandemic have definitely triggered those that have had ambitions to be business owners to make the move into their own business.
"The demand for buying a profitable, proven business has never been higher."
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