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Real Estate

21 August, 2025

‘Lucky to be here’

WHEN I stepped off the plane from Belgium all those years ago, I had no idea what lay ahead. It was exciting and a little scary all at the same time.


Jan Hooghe, sales agent, Paradise Property Group.
Jan Hooghe, sales agent, Paradise Property Group.

I came to Australia seeking more opportunity and hopefully a better way of life and could never imagine how good it would be.

I arrived in 2017 and quickly established myself as a young entrepreneur managing various entertainment venues in Cairns.

Starting from scratch in a new country isn’t easy, so I got a job, worked hard and made new friends, who became an important support network when family are so far away. 

Four years ago, I took a big leap of faith and started a career in real estate and I haven’t looked back. 

It’s not an easy job, but it’s extremely rewarding helping people with such an important transaction.

I have found my calling working in real estate and have experienced rapid growth in only a short time, setting me apart from other agents thanks to my dedication, loyalty and unwavering commitment to my clients – ensuring they sell for the very best price.

As a fitness enthusiast I bring the same level of focus and discipline to every sales campaign, challenging myself and raising the bar to be better  every day.

There have been so many important milestones, but my proudest moments have been buying my first home and officially becoming an Australian citizen. 

I feel extremely lucky to call Australia home and I pinch myself working in paradise every day.

In my free time I immerse myself in nature exploring tropical rainforests, waterfalls and reefs building a strong following on social media as a local guide on where to go in FNQ.

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