Perfect Timing

Demand for investment property fuels growth for Pukeko Rental Managers

Have you heard the one about the investment property owner who liked his property manager so much he joined the franchise?

Hutt Valley-based Matt MacMillan had experienced poor service from property managers looking after his Wellington investment property over a number of years. The issues ranged from escalating fees and charges to a lack of systems and processes that he believed meant his investment was not being properly protected.

‘Looking at alternatives, my researches led me to Pukeko Rental Managers,’ Matt says. ‘It’s a franchise that seemed to me to have the perfect blend. As a large nationwide organisation, Pukeko franchisees have access to industry-leading tools, systems and processes. But as each location is managed by a local owner-operator with a maximum of 100 properties under their management, clients get a level of personal care and attention that only a small firm can provide.’

It’s also an award-winning system, having won the Westpac Supreme Franchise System of the Year title in 2019.

Low-investment opportunity

Pukeko Rental Managers founder David Pearse is totally focused on helping franchisees succeed by providing a better model for property management. Having been closely involved with real estate management for many years, he had become frustrated by traditional office-based, multi-tier management structures. Pukeko allows mobile property managers to operate from home, cutting down overheads while using intelligent and well-supported cloud-based systems.

With Pukeko franchises starting from just $12,500+gst and opportunities available all around the country, it’s a low-cost way to start your own business. ‘The support and training provided means that anyone with the right aptitude and attitude can build a really successful business from nothing – which is exactly what I’ve done,’ says Matt. ‘I really enjoy meeting people and the mix of operational and sales functions that the role requires. It also provides a lot of flexibility to fit in other priorities – for example, I’m able to schedule time each day to help care for my elderly mum.’

And while building professional relationships with real estate agents, accountants, and others within the industry was a challenge initially, Matt says he had ‘a huge amount of support from David and the Pukeko team right from the get-go.’ While it took time to build his client base, the support combined with his determination meant that positive results weren’t long coming.

Unique initiative

In keeping with David’s goal of transforming the sector, the franchise has launched the Pukeko Plus Rent Guarantee Scheme. This is designed to give investment property owners total peace of mind: should a tenant get behind in rent, Pukeko Rental Managers can access a dedicated company fund to cover rent arrears while they resolve any issues.

It’s a huge deal for property owners and Pukeko franchisees alike – there can be confidence that rents are paid every month, investments are safe and rental properties are in expert hands.

‘Pukeko Plus proves that we really are different to other property management companies,’ says Matt. ‘By guaranteeing 100 percent of the tenant’s rent payments, we take away a lot of the perceived risk of owning an investment property and give clients peace of mind. For franchisees, it’s an incredibly powerful tool, particularly while they’re just starting to build their business – it allows them to stand out from the competition.’

Ongoing support

Today Matt believes the timing is perfect to become a Pukeko Rental Managers franchisee. ‘The housing market is more active than ever, with low interest rates driving huge demand for investment property. An increasing number of first-time investors are entering the market as home owners move up the property ladder and keep their first property to let out,’ he explains.

‘There’s also a tidal wave of new regulations around residential tenancies, with massive fines and other risks for people who get it wrong. Investors are looking for professional property managers who can keep them on the right side of the law, while protecting their investments and maximising their returns. Pukeko’s unique market position and wide network of owner-operators is just what those investors need.’

It all adds up to perfect timing for anyone looking to capitalise on a booming industry.

Advertiser Info

Pukeko Rental Managers

Contact David Pearse

P 0508 785 356 M 0274 809 534

david@pukekorentalmanagers.co.nz

www.pukekorentalmanagers.co.nz

Matt MacMillan