Dowling Raymond Terrace marked its 24th anniversary on September 16 with cake and an office celebration.

The business opened in 1990 and licensee Gregg Bates believes its longevity can be put down to the hard work and positive attitude of staff.

"We are one of the oldest continual businesses in Raymond Terrace with local staff who have grown up here and know the area," he said.

When the agency opened it had only 29 rental properties, but now about 460 properties are on the books located all over Port Stephens and the Hunter.

The sales department is also performing well with the business starting to see third and even fourth generation buyers come through looking for their first home.

"It is great that people have put their faith in you for 24 years with their main asset - their home," Mr Bates said.

Both Mr Bates and principal Craig Higgins have watched the business grow, with four office moves along William Street and the staff going from just two people to now 10 employees.

With its long-running presence in the community the business has also been involved with almost every estate that has popped up in the last 10 years in Raymond Terrace.

Real estate is not the only business that interests Dowling, which every year runs a Christmas toy drive and sponsors several local sporting teams.