Affordable Start-Up Business Model for South African Estate Agents

Johannesburg, South Africa, December 21, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Barry Davies, the groups director of franchising, says the Chas Everitt Notebook © system will accommodate top performing agents, particularly those in the likes of rural areas who wish to own their businesses without all of the traditional costs and structures associated with a full franchise set-up.

"The concept is aimed at allowing people to own their own business and trade for their own account under a strong brand, without the usual set up costs. The license grants an operator the right to use the brand, its systems, websites, marketing material and training, among others, within a defined area at a far reduced entry and operational cost," he says.

"Substantial savings are also made because Notebook license holders do not operate from formal office premises or have to hire administrative staff as the system allows them to handle their own transactions. Those agents seeking administrative assistance have the option of using the services of an admin agency at a highly competitive monthly fee. This will allow them further to focus on sales," says Davies.

"One of the precursors for us being able to offer the license was the finalisation of the full Chas Everitt Nuclei© system that allows members to transact from end to end, from pre-listing to post sale, and which is now successfully running live throughout our SA offices as well as in Mauritius, Zambia and Zimbabwe."

In terms of the scheme independent contractors obtain an annual license, which can be renewed. Licenses are only available in specific areas and will be limited to prevent over-trading of any given area. However, license holders will be able to operate collaboratively to create a stronger presence in a territory whilst still owning their independent businesses.

Davies adds that the group is presently accepting limited applicants, in identified areas. "The model also elicited a lot of interest from agents in townships who previously had few options in terms of business ownership and who see this as a viable method of entry. The Services Seta has also evaluated the system and believes it may offer opportunities for new business creation."

One of the first Notebook licenses was granted to Mara Potgieter and Alida Consalves, two former Chas Everitt agents in Rustenburg. "In practice, the license is outstanding. We have access to all support services as well as top quality continuous training that has no equal locally. We are independent, yet associated with a company with high standards, values and excellent value-added products for agents as well as consumers," they say.

Yolandie Goosen, another pioneer of the system, runs her own operation in Mooinooi near Brits in Northwest Province. Goosen decided to strike out on her own after starting a family and says the Notebook model suits her circumstances perfectly. "The model allows agents to arrange their own working schedule and targets, and as a new parent I found that I could be highly effective and efficient as an agent," she says. "And the support from the Chas Everitt group is simply outstanding."

Annual license fees vary depending on area and number of licenses, and may be paid in a lump sum or on a monthly basis. There is an additional monthly fee for the use of the Nuclei© and related IT systems and a royalty on gross commission income, payable on registration of each transaction. License holders also buy a starter pack containing the necessary boards, marketing materials, print items and other material at the groups preferred rates via recognised suppliers.

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