Hybrid agency scheme claims it's better for agents than rival firms

The closely-fought battle between franchise lettings agencies in the private rental sector continues apace. 

Maryam Bham, franchise sales manager at Hunters - now part of The Property Franchise Group after being snapped up last year for £24m - has issued a statement claiming that her firm’s new ‘Hunters Personal’ service differentiates itself from rival hybrid operations. 

The brand currently has 200 locations across England and Wales of which the majority are owned by franchise partners. Franchisees must pay £20,000 in the first year of trading.

Hunters pays some 90 per cent of the commission earned to those joining the Personal scheme, with agents working within a specific territory under their own terms without a bricks and mortar office but under the Hunters Personal brand.

Bham, franchise sales manager, says: “We have long identified the space that exists to support lettings professionals who may want to start their own business. 

“Most hybrid models are not designed to accommodate lettings experts. We have built a strong infrastructure at our head office which is designed specifically to support lettings professionals who want to own their own business. 

“This support will enable the business owner to focus on developing their local business by marketing the Hunters brand, knowing that all aspects of property management and compliance are administered for them.”

New converts to the Personal Agent hybrid model are Parmi Chhokar and Jamie Hendy.

Chhokar is operating in East London and says: “Having established a successful career in the industry as a mortgage and protection professional who is focused on providing an outstanding customer service journey, I am ready to take on my next challenge in property. My knowledge to help people buy, sell and let property in an area I know extremely well, will give me a significant advantage.”

Hendy is working in West Cornwall and says: “The area is home to some truly spectacular high value properties, all of which require a bespoke and considered approach to marketing to attract discerning purchasers and landlords.”