A Fresh Face With A Strong Foundation Ethan Laval, Mackay City Property

In Mackay’s competitive real estate market, one name is quickly becoming synonymous with growth, innovation, and success: Ethan Laval.
At just 20 years old, Ethan has already made strides in the industry, blending traditional values with cutting-edge strategies. His ability to seamlessly navigate between these two worlds has earned him recognition as a finalist for the REIQ’s Rising Star Salesperson of the Year – a prestigious accolade that reflects his remarkable trajectory in a highly competitive field.
Ethan's roots in the industry run deep. Born into a family with a real estate legacy, his parents, Chris and Tammy Laval, are co-owners of Mackay City Property alongside Sandra Macklin. However, while many might assume that Ethan’s path to success was paved for him, it’s clear that his journey has been shaped by a strong sense of independence and drive.
“I’ve never taken anything for granted,” he says.
“People might think it was easy because of who my parents are, but the expectations were always higher, as failure in my family is not an option.”
Ethan’s story isn’t just about following in his father’s footsteps – it’s about carving out his own identity and proving that he has the determination and skills to succeed on his own terms.
While his family’s reputation in the industry undoubtedly set the stage, Ethan was always determined to make a name for himself.
Starting his journey in real estate during high school, Ethan began by completing a Certificate IV in Real Estate. However, he had to wait until he turned 18 to become a fully licensed real estate agent officially.
While still in Grades 11 and 12, Ethan gained invaluable experience working alongside his father and mentor. Observing his father close deals, negotiate, and assist clients, Ethan realised that real estate was where his passion lay.
“All I’ve heard for 20 years is real estate,” Ethan says.
“I grew up listening to my dad – from being dropped off and picked up from school while hearing him negotiate on the phone, to watching his auctions and witnessing him navigate both the downturns and the successes of the industry.”
After finishing school, Ethan spent a year under his father’s guidance, learning the essential systems, processes, and intricacies of the business.
As Chris says, “Sink or swim.”

Ethan not only swam but thrived, overcoming challenges like ageism and limited experience early in his career. His determination to rise above these obstacles drives him to inspire young people to pursue their ambitions despite adversity.
“My father believed it was important to let me grow into my own person,” Ethan shares.

“When he stepped back from sales to let me take the lead, I had the opportunity to develop my own style rather than simply replicate his approach. I’m incredibly grateful for my parents.

“It was tough at first, but I believe that’s the only way to truly learn.”
Now, three years into his career, Ethan has achieved over $32 million in property sales.
“I’m only getting started,” Ethan says, a mindset pivotal to his success and establishing his name in the real estate industry.
Ethan’s desire to make a tangible difference is a hallmark of his approach to real estate.
“Real estate isn’t just about selling houses,” he says.
“It’s about creating connections and helping people navigate through some of the biggest transitions in their lives.”
While Ethan’s modern approach to real estate sets him apart, he remains deeply grounded in the values he learned from his family. His approach to the industry is informed by the experiences he gained growing up in the business.
“I’ve learned so much from my father about the art of negotiation,” he explains.
“Negotiation is like a game of chess – knowing which piece to move and when to achieve the best outcome. I thrive on challenges and enjoy pushing myself to improve those skills.”
Chris has been impressed with the growth he’s seen in Ethan.
“He has a level of patience and understanding that can’t be taught, while also knowing when it’s time to talk business and get tough,” Chris said.
“That balance is hard to find.”
In a fast-evolving industry, Ethan uses cutting-edge marketing tools, including social media, to ensure that his clients’ properties reach the right audience. But despite his proficiency in the digital world, he never loses sight of the importance of personal relationships and face-to-face service.
“It’s about nurturing relationships and making sure my clients feel valued,” he says.
Ethan’s emphasis on personal service is rooted in a deep respect for the trust clients place in him.
“I want to be someone they can truly trust and contact when it comes to real estate,” he says.
“Real estate is about more than just the transaction, and for some, there are more important factors to consider than money.
“It’s about guiding people through one of the biggest transitions of their lives, whether they’re buying, selling, or navigating difficult circumstances like divorce or the death of a loved one.
“I understand that every situation is unique, and that’s why I make an effort to listen.”
His ambition is not just to be a successful agent, but to inspire the next generation.
“I want to show young people that success doesn’t always come through the traditional routes of university or the mining industry,” he says.
“There are so many paths to a fulfilling career, and real estate is one of those paths.”
Ethan’s professional journey has been shaped by more than just his natural ability. He is quick to acknowledge the support and mentorship he has received from colleagues and his family.
“We have a great team here,” he says, “and it’s not just about what I’ve learned from Mum and Dad. But the team are always here to support me.
“Gordon, our guru in commercial zoning, farming, and rural land sales, has guided my understanding of the complexities within this category of real estate and Angela and Toni are incredibly experienced agents whom I’ve learned a lot from. Sandra, who heads our rental portfolio, has also given me invaluable advice.”
As Ethan continues to break new ground, the question is no longer whether he will become a household name in Mackay’s real estate world, but when…
Keep an eye on this space – the best is yet to come.

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