Expanding hybrid franchise agency looking for new recruits

A hybrid franchise agency is looking for new partners to expand its reach in the Midlands.

Campbells says it is looking for new 'associates' in Northamptonshire and Warwickshire. 

The firm claims that its own future – as well as 'estate agents in general' – will be based on the hybrid estate agency model, mixing the values of high street estate agents with the 'modern techniques' of online agents.

"Today’s customers, whether they are a seller, buyer, landlord or tenant would still prefer to have their hand held, so to speak, through the challenges of moving," says Paul Campbell, who founded the firm in 1989.

"We are not a budget agent or online model where you often pay a cheap fee [and] generally have to do a lot of the work yourself."

Campbells says it already has successful franchise 'associates' operating in Daventry, Brackley and Bugbrooke among other areas. 

"We have been quietly running this unique business model for a decade so now it’s time to continue our teaching and offer opportunities further afield to motivated individuals that have entrepreneurial spirit to run and benefit from their own business," adds Campbell. 

"For years I have been embarrassed about the state of our industry, if I’m honest, but we have proved over the last decade that some estate agents really do do what they say they are going to do."

Franchisees are given access to Campbells' brand as well as its CRM systems, customer database, management software and digital marketing packages.

Campbells associates are required to attend an 'intense' five-day training course, before receiving ongoing training. 

The course includes content on valuations, viewings, negotiation, digital marketing and property law.

"It is impossible to expect anyone to get through the week and pop out the other side as an expert," says Carla Field, who supports new associates. 

The firm has also introduced an 'associate apprenticeship' scheme which provides an 'alternative path' for agents who can't afford to invest in a franchise.

According to Campbells' website, one of its franchises costs £14,500 + VAT. 

Research carried out by Startups earlier this year revealed that joining a lettings franchise can cost from between £2,495 to £150,000.  

The cheapest franchise it found was Peach Lettings, while Belvoir's offering – which includes an office – was the most expensive.