In A Good Space

Debra Robson: ‘It’s a wonderful opportunity’

Thorough training and total flexibility make Pukeko Rental Managers a winner

When Debra Robson relocated from Brisbane to Nelson four years ago, she brought with her more than 15 years’ experience in bookkeeping and office management, along with a background in property renovations, building and investing.

Debra was soon on the hunt for a successful, flexible business that she could manage around her children. ‘At the time, we were building our own rental properties in Nelson and I saw an opportunity to offer a boutique service to other investors. However, being new to New Zealand, I really needed support and a network of other professionals in the property management industry who would give me a solid base of guidance.’

While researching property management opportunities, she met David Pearse, the founder of the Pukeko Rental Managers franchise and, after a few conversations, realised that the brand offered everything she needed to get started.

‘Rental is an area where there are a lot of legislative requirements, so the training was very thorough. I was guided through everything from email communication and the website to all the software and setups. In addition I was given a business coach, who is another experienced Pukeko manager from the group. They catch up with you monthly and troubleshoot any issues, and help you build and reach your KPIs.

‘I also received sales training which is specific to the industry – this was a standout for me as it’s such a great tool that helps you build professional relationships with real estate agents, accountants, and others within the industry. It all got me off to the best possible start.’

Low-cost investment

With Pukeko franchises starting from just $18,500+gst and opportunities available all around the country, it’s a low-cost way to start your own business. Rather than a traditional office-based, multi-tier management structure, Pukeko allows mobile property managers to operate from home, cutting down overheads while using intelligent and well-supported cloud-based systems. It also offers property owners a rental guarantee scheme that helps franchisees stand out from the competition.

David Pearse was involved in real estate management for many years before founding Pukeko, and says that, no matter what your background, the company’s training is designed to ensure that you become the local property management expert in your franchise area. ‘We help you get up to speed fast, then support you to maintain that speed as your business grows.’

And it works – the company was named Westpac Supreme Franchise System of the Year in November 2019, attracting even more business. ‘The increased level of enquiry from property owners over the past 12 months has been immensely satisfying, as has the feedback from franchisees,’ says David. ‘Just last week I received a phone call from one of our franchisees who wanted to tell me how much she was really enjoying the business. She just needed to share her joy with someone!’

Now’s good

‘New Zealand’s rental property market can be challenging, but in terms of timing, there will never be a better time than now to invest in a Pukeko franchise,’ David suggests. ‘Low overheads mean you only need a few properties to cover the cost of operating the business and, of course, the greater the number of properties you manage, the wider your smile becomes.

‘Don’t leave developing your own lifestyle business too late. Pukeko offers a high level of freedom and flexibility, as well as excellent returns – you could not find a better business opportunity that can be run from home.

‘In addition, Pukeko Rental Managers has come through the pandemic largely unaffected. The demand for rental housing is still very high, and Pukeko franchisees work from home anyway, so they have been in a very good space. We’ve developed health and safety protocols around what can be done under different Covid alert levels, and the whole team has adapted well. In some ways, the use of online meetings and virtual property inspections has made the business even more efficient.’

Living up to expectations

Debra says the business has definitely lived up to her expectations after some serious commitment. ‘If you’re willing to put the hard work in and follow the prescribed processes and system, you will get great results.

‘The start-up costs are minimal, and you can grow the business as fast or slow as the time you have to invest in it,’ she explains. ‘When I first started, I continued working part-time then, once I was comfortable with the business, I was able to commit my time fully and yet still have the flexibility I was after.

The highlights in her journey so far include winning two categories in the 2020 Pukeko Franchise Awards – Tenant and Landlord Satisfaction (Group 2) and Rising Star – as well as hitting her growth goals for the business each year.

‘If you are looking to start a rewarding business with good flexibility, do your research, get some understanding of the rental market in your region then talk to David,’ she says. ‘It’s a great business model and the passion that he has for property management is reflected in everything the franchise does. It’s a wonderful opportunity.’

Advertiser Info

Contact David Pearse

P 0508 785 356 or M 0274 809 534

david@pukekorentalmanagers.co.nz

www.pukekorentalmanagers.co.nz