Raine & Horne has today expanded its Queensland network with the launch of Raine & Horne Ripley, led by local agent Suresh Sapkota, as the leading Australasian real estate group strengthens its presence in the City of Ipswich, one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities[i].
Moreover, Ripley topped the list when it comes to the fastest-growing suburbs in Ipswich in the 2024/25 financial year, with 649 new dwellings and 2,024 new residents over the 12 months.
“Located near Springfield, Ripley is emerging as a major master planned community, with strong population growth, new housing supply and increasing demand from both local and interstate investors and owner-occupiers,” said Mr Sapkota.
As a result, the median house price in Ripley has reached $840,000 following growth of 13.5% for housing values over the past year, although Mr Sapkota reports some properties have achieved significantly stronger gains.
“We’ve sold house and land packages in 2025 for around $759,000 that are now worth closer to $930,000,” he said.
“On the demand front, buyers are split roughly 50:50 between investors and owner-occupiers, including strong interest from first-home buyers.”
Bringing a strong business acumen to Raine & Horne Ripley
Mr Sapkota brings a diverse business background to real estate, having spent many years in hospitality, including owning and operating a successful restaurant. Born in Nepal, he left his home country in 1994 and has since lived and worked in Singapore, Germany and the United Kingdom before settling in Australia.
Since transitioning into real estate Mr Sapkota has quickly built a strong client base, particularly within Southeast Queensland’s Nepalese and Indian communities.
“I’d been considering a move into real estate for many years. After living on the Gold Coast since 2007 and purchasing several investment properties myself, I’ve developed a strong understanding of the local market, its growth, and the opportunities it offers.
“My previous business experience has also given me an extensive community network, which has been invaluable in real estate.”
Angus Raine Executive Chairman Raine & Horne said he is delighted to welcome Mr Sapkota to the rapidly expanding real estate group.
“Suresh is a reliable agent who has excellent experience in marketing home and land packages and off the plan opportunities. He works closely with clients to define their objectives and deliver bespoke solutions,” Mr Raine said.
Mr Raine added that Ripley represents a compelling growth opportunity for Raine & Horne.
“Ripley is one of the most exciting emerging suburbs in Southeast Queensland, underpinned by new housing development, strong population growth and proximity to major employment hubs such as Brisbane.”
Raine & Horne brand opens doors in Ripley growth market
Mr Sapkota said joining Raine & Horne would enable him to broaden his market reach and grow beyond his existing client base.
“Many of my clients come from the Nepalese and Indian communities, which I’m very proud to support,” he said.
“By joining Raine & Horne, I now have the platform, brand and systems to expand into the wider market and connect with more buyers and sellers across the region.”
Mr Sapkota said he was excited to launch his own business under the Raine & Horne banner.
“Under my previous brand, I didn’t always have the same access to vendors, but with Raine & Horne behind me, I can now open more doors and compete at a higher level,” he said.
Raine & Horne Ripley will service Ripley and the surrounding suburbs, and will launch with a team of five real estate specialists.
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