Capitalising on Experience: A Blueprint for Franchise Success

After a successful corporate career, Erica Townend leveraged her unique skills in IT and property to build a thriving franchise with Martin & Co, recently expanding her Wokingham business with a second office in Egham.

Since launching her Martin & Co Wokingham franchise in 2015, Erica has built a reputation for excellence. Now, with the successful launch of a new office in Egham, Surrey, she reflects on the journey and the partnership with The Property Franchise Group (TPFG) that has been instrumental to her growth.

“I had looked into several estate agency franchises over the years, but nothing really resonated. I was driving past the Chelsea branch and was drawn to the clean lines of their branding. So, I enquired seriously about becoming a franchise owner.”

From the outset, Erica found the support from TPFG to be comprehensive and crucial for a strong start. “I received plenty of support,” she confirms. “I had a business development manager guide us through the setting up and initial marketing and selling. There was a full induction course, and Head Office also guided me through the complicated steps of setting up and being compliant.”

This initial support has evolved into a long-term strategic partnership that has helped Erica’s business to flourish. “The team at The Property Franchise Group are very personable and helpful,” she notes. “Operationally, their feedback requirements are reasonable, and I get sight of a lot of data, which I use to make informed decisions. Their understanding of marketing is excellent. Within the constraints of the agreements, I am pretty much allowed to just get on with the day-to-day running of the business, but if I have a special situation or problem, then I know there is a well-informed team to rely on.”

Being part of a nationally recognised network has provided a significant advantage in a competitive local market. “Being part of a larger, well-known brand helps because we can offer clients the best of both worlds,” says Erica. “A world-class estate agency with all the compliance and knowledge you could wish for, combined with the knowledge that the client is dealing also with a small business where they have direct access to me.”

This combination gives Erica’s team a distinct competitive edge. “Our competitive advantage is definitely enhanced by the TPFG network. We receive and give leads from our fellow franchisees,” she states. “We compete easily against smaller agencies because our team training and compliance is second to none. We also compete very easily against large organisations because our clients deal with a small number of highly motivated team members on site.”

The forward-thinking approach of TPFG ensures that Franchise Owners like Erica are always ahead of the curve, a benefit that has become increasingly valuable. “Each time there is a change in legislation, we are completely aware of the implications. We and our clients benefit from this highly motivated and highly skilled 'hive-mind',” she shares. “This latest change in laws (Renters Reform Bill) and the latest tech changes with the growth of AI have seen an incredible response from TPFG, offering our business some great opportunities to benefit our clients.”

Reflecting on her journey, Erica has no hesitation in endorsing the franchise model to the right person. “I would always recommend TPFG to anyone willing to work hard and be proactive. Someone with an entrepreneurial bent can benefit hugely from the expertise at TPFG,” she concludes. “I recommend a positive mindset and a willingness to learn their systems and processes.