15 Years of Coastal Strata

Fifteen years of Coastal Strata. The business began at home at a tiny desk, built one report at a time with a simple focus on accuracy, clarity and service. Kylie joined in August 2014 which created the first real step forward.

My dad, Howard, was an integral part of our report team from 2014 to 2016. This was back when we physically had to drive to Strata Managers offices to complete inspections.

Some days we would be in Nowra, Moss Vale, Wollongong and Carlton in the same day. More time on the road than in the office. Kelly and Suzie came on board in 2020 and remain part of the team today. I am grateful for everyone who has contributed to Coastal over the years, past and present.

Coastal moved into its first Wollongong office in June 2019, then expanded in 2020 and again in April 2021, all within the same building. In January 2024 the business moved into its current home at Niche Cowork. A calm, well considered space that has shaped how we work today.

More than fifteen thousand clients have trusted us to help them understand the reality behind their property decisions. That volume reflects consistency and the long term support of the people who continue to refer to us.

Covid was the toughest period. Work dropped and uncertainty was constant. That challenge forced a complete reset in thinking. Coastal shifted from only providing reports in Wollongong to providing reports across NSW. The move to online strata portals made it possible and it kept the business moving forward.

AI has become another turning point. Introduced quietly in 2021 and now woven into many internal systems. It removes unnecessary friction and frees the team to stay focused on being present and available for clients.

The support from our referrers has been exceptional. Agents, conveyancers, brokers, buyers agents and others within the professional network. Ninety percent of our reports now come from existing referrers. Every relationship is valued and never taken for granted.

Fifteen years in business has reinforced a few simple principles. In the early days the old Gary Vee hustle mindset was strong. Work hard, outwork everyone, keep going.

Over time that evolved into lean thinking, incremental improvements and a focus on finding your niche and owning it. Show up. Learn. Improve. Serve people well. Coastal Strata is built on that and continues to stand on that today.

Craig

Managing Director