Special Feature HomeXperts
Why did you choose HomeXperts in particular?
I had started to look at property franchising due to my experience within the industry in my previous role. After thoroughly researching the sector and compared the franchise opportunities, I decided that ultimately I was looking for a company that reflected my ethos.
After speaking to Sussanne, HomeXperts managing director, and a few of the other franchisees, it was clear that they all believed wholeheartedly in the brand and franchise model.
Emma Fielding
Emma joined a solicitors’ firm in Bolton while undertaking a course to enable her to practise as a solicitor. She became responsible for all of the property and private client work. She has now taken the next step in her career by starting her own estate and letting agency.
I’m glad to have joined HomeXperts while it is relatively new to the market. I can see the potential for HomeXperts to grow as a business, while I begin to establish my business as well.
In what ways is your business flexible? In my local area, most estate and letting agents shut at 5.30pm during the week, with very few opening at the weekend at all. I am able to support local people by working at times that are suitable to them. This transcends into meeting people when other agents can’t, including taking viewings until nine in the evening.
What drew you to franchising? I had started to seriously look at changing my career plan. I realised I wasn’t completely satisfied with my current role and wanted to work towards something else that I had more control over. I wanted to work for myself, but I wanted the sensibility and security of an established company that could train me to be exceptional and support me to be successful.
Why did you choose MACC? I first saw MACC at a franchise show, having never heard of the company before. Despite this, I was immediately attracted by the high quality of the products that are manufactured by the company, and of the innovation that the company has shown. I found this exciting and thought it would be something that I could get involved in. The van is a great selling point, well turned out, and something that really draws attention.
What are the advantages of a van- based franchise?
I enjoy being able to work in a variety of areas, to travel around and not be confined to a single office. My work takes me to a variety of locations depending on where the customers are working. It can take me anywhere from the middle of a large city, through to some of the most scenic parts of the country.
How has investing in a HomeXperts franchise changed your lifestyle? As a solicitor, I was working eight hours a day but I was on call 24/7. As a single mother, this was taking time away from me that I wanted to spend with my son. Now, as a franchise owner, I am able to plan my day around my biggest priorities, and so far this year I haven’t missed a single thing that is important to me! A strong work ethic will only get you so
In what ways is your business flexible? The business allows me to maintain a good work-life balance through working for myself. I am responsible for gaining appointments and planning the working day, so if I wish to take time off, I can plan this around my working schedule. Likewise, by working for myself, I have
far greater flexibility to take leave when I wish; there are no instances of having to swap days with colleagues or have requests entered into a ballot.
What about training and support? MACC takes real care in selecting the right people to work under its name, and, once selected, to ensure they are able to start in the field.
My first week as a MACC franchisee involved a week’s training at the company headquarters in France, where not only did I learn about the products and the selling
far working for someone else because you don’t always see the benefit of your hard work. This can grind you down into not enjoying your work as much as you should be when you’re pouring in every ounce of effort.
Do you have plans to grow the business in the future? Firstly, I want to be in a position to staff my franchise in my current area. Once I have established brand awareness outside of my territory, I want to expand the business further around the local area, while keeping my previous area going.
Has your work-life balance improved? As my own boss I am able to take my holidays at periods that are best suited to my business – this has been manageable to this point. If I’m taking annual leave I am able to employ a viewing agent where necessary to carry out appointments, while still being able to monitor my emails.
What advice would you give potential franchisees? Before choosing a franchise to invest in, make sure you do your research thoroughly, compare your options and also consider other options you may have previously felt unqualified for. You don’t always need relevant experience, as many skills are transferable. The best franchises will train you to be successful in a new industry.
Do the math! It’s important to ensure you have the funds to support yourself, so that you are not creating a financial disadvantage as you attempt to develop your business.
“The business allows me to maintain a good work-life balance”
techniques, but I was also able to get an insight into the company and how it works at all levels of the operation. The franchise manager has spent several weeks with me in the field to help me gain early experience in the first few months – always the toughest part of starting a franchise. MACC is a growing franchise and there
are a small number of existing franchisees. All of them are very friendly, helpful people, and, once in the network, are in regular contact to discuss ideas, share tips or even just provide a few reassuring words after a good or bad day.
September 2016 |
BusinessFranchise.com | 29
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