Case Study - Jeff Cook
Jeff Cook, one of the director's behind Bairstow Eves’ largest core franchise, Ross Estate Agencies, was "just about retired" when he was first presented with details of Bairstow Eves Franchising. Having worked in the property market for many years, he thought that a franchise might be the perfect way to try something a little bit different.
After discussing the opportunity with long-time friend and business associate Alan Bidmead, the pair had to decide whether to start up their own independent agency, or whether to go with Bairstow Eves. According to Jeff, in the end the decision was actually quite simple.
"We looked at each other and thought: why re-invent the wheel? Bairstow Eves had a comprehensive operations manual and a number of core business processes that we knew worked well. Their training package was also very impressive, and their marketing materials were excellent. Even though we both had a lot of experience in estate agency, we knew that all of these tangible benefits would allow us to grow a lot more quickly than we could otherwise."
Jeff and Alan, who have more than sixty years’ combined experience in estate agency, opened their first three Bairstow Eves branches in 2001. The two men set a target of opening twelve branches within their first five years of trading – and actually succeeded in beating their own deadline.
"Bairstow Eves made this rapid growth possible by through first-class training and a lot of support," Jeff explains. "Their input has enabled us to get each branch up and running with minimal fuss. The franchise package gives us a big-name brand that helps to attract serious customers, as well as the resources of a national organisation when we need them."
With such a rapidly changing market, both men are grateful for Bairstow Eves' expertise and guidance with the latest industry developments. With the advent of Home Information Packs and other new initiatives being rolled out all the time, Jeff and Alan both feel confident that Bairstow Eves Countrywide will be on hand to help with any necessary training and support.
"Bairstow Eves offers a very flexible working relationship. They help us when we need it, but are willing to let us get on with things ourselves, too," Jeff adds. "Basically, you get all of the benefits of being a small, local estate agency, but with the support of a large national company behind you. It really is the best of both worlds."
