There are a number of factors why this would not be the case. The criteria to setup an agency has become far more regulated. In the past anyone could decide to start selling property and then brand themselves as an agency, this is no longer the case. You now need to be a fully qualified agent holding the correct qualifications and registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board, before you can start selling in the market. Meeting these qualifications criteria is far easier within an infrastructure that is in place to train, coach and ensure that all legislation requirements are being adhered to.
Craig Hutchison, CEO of Engel & Völkers Southern Africa explains that an overriding factor to join the established brands, is the rise in the need for technology. In an ever-evolving world, any real estate agency needs to have access to advanced systems in order to market their properties successfully. Simply running a excel database and placing newspaper ads are no longer an option.
As the larger real estate agencies have the capital & infrastructure to keep developing their systems & networks, it is becoming more appealing for existing real estate businesses to convert to a national, or even better, an international brand. Some of the advantages of being part of a bigger national or international team is the networking and referral opportunities, systems, sharing of best practices as well as the support provided from head office.
“We ourselves have seen a definite increase in enquiries for local agencies wanting to convert to an E&V franchise and one common reason has been the need to become part of a strong brand bolstered by an acclaimed franchise system which encompasses the technology, training coaching and best practices” Craig explained.
Engel & Völkers success owes much to their tried-and-tested franchise system, which has proven its worth on the global stage to ensure their franchise partners can enter the market quickly and enjoy a high rate of return.
“I myself had to investigate all the various brands when I wanted to enter the real estate brokerage market in South Africa, and the German brand with its unique shop concept, comprehensive range of services and innovative marketing and IT capabilities was far beyond any other I researched.”
“Having proven our success, we have the go ahead to commence with the roll out of the next 100 licenses in South Africa, from Germany. This has opened up the entire South Africa for us to expand into. By joining the Engel & Völkers success story, we will guide you step by step to make your real estate business a success. Distinguish yourself from your competition and elevate your services to the next level” Craig continued.
One of E&V’s long standing Licence Partners, Carl Venter from Potchefstroom did the conversion back in 2005. Carl says that In 2005 I was invited to attend a presentation of the Engel & Völkers concept. Being active in the property industry for a while and an experienced estate agent at the time, it was clear that the Engel & Völkers business model is totally different from the competition. This model was totally unique and very professional. What impressed me most was the fact that the E&V model had been developed and improved to such a high standard in the industry.
From oldest to newest - Janine Rowe, Licence Partner of the E&V Benoni recently converted her existing real estate agency to the E&V brand in January 2020 and she is of the opinion that she would have converted a lot earlier had she known of all the benefits that an international brand has to offer. Since joining the E&V brand she has almost doubled her team of agents in a mere 90 days.
Janine has been in the real estate industry for the past 21 years with extensive experience in real estate training. She states that she is extremely passionate about educating property practitioners’ through effective training, as well as being able to offer them the best systems associating her herself with a group like Engel & Völkers adds even more value, competence and passion to her business.
Craig concluded by adding, that the important factor for your success as a franchise partner is our unique farming concept, which will enable you to systematically exploit the market potential of your exclusive licence regions. Thanks to targeted training and the latest tools, all of your agents will be ideally equipped to acquire customers and properties with maximum efficiency. This comprehensive market penetration will enable you to quickly become the market leader in your region.
What are the benefits of owning an Engel & Völkers Franchise?
Join a global brand & benefit from advanced systems, marketing, in-house academy & more. Contact Craig Hutchison on 083 630 8683 or email on craig.hutchison@engelvoelkers.com to set up an introductory meeting.
