Being part of a brand to take you to the next level

There are many reasons to be a Jawitz Properties franchisee. To name just a few, you get access to our proven business model, comprehensive training and business support every step of the way. A shining example of a Jawitz Properties franchising success story is Hugo la Grange, our Western Seaboard franchisee who subsequently opened a West Coast franchise and then expanded his territory further. We caught up with la Grange to get the lowdown on his business, his experience of the Jawitz Properties franchise model and the advice he would give other real estate franchisees wanting to take the next step forward to grow their careers and business in real estate.

La Grange's real estate career began in 2005 when he was doing real estate sales for a property developer. He knew early on that this was the industry that he wanted to build his career in. Hugo made an interesting decision to study civil engineering based on his involvement in new developments at the time. Over time, La Grange's career evolved and shifted to a focus on marketing, sales and property investment, which led him to an MSc in Real Estate.

Lasting impressions of the Jawitz Properties franchise model

When La Grange started looking for property franchise opportunities in and around the Western Seaboard - the area where he wanted to start his business - he became aware that Jawitz Properties had a franchise opportunity available. He started engaging with the team and quickly realised that their values and business principles aligned with his. "The Jawitz Properties franchise model offers a lot of business support and guidance. I knew immediately that this level of support would make it easier to start and grow my business," he shares.

Challenges faced and overcome

Challenges are an inevitable part of running a business and the last few years have thrown the property industry some serious curve balls, between the pandemic and rising interest rates. "There are no quick fixes in tough times, but being part of a greater support system that focuses on the people in the business helped me to stay positive," comments la Grange. "Another factor that worked in my favour was building a team of committed, results-driven property practitioners and support staff."

Growing and overcoming challenges is always easier when you have a competitive edge. "Being partnered with industry leaders has made a big difference in tough times because you're only as good as your team," adds la Grange.

Taking the next step in a real estate career

After establishing the Western Seaboard franchise, la Grange opened a West Coast franchise - and then later extended his territory even further. He shares some unique insights on taking a real estate franchise career further. "The property sector is very competitive and sometimes challenging," he explains. "My advice to anyone looking to build a career in real estate would be to think long-term. Don't just focus on the quick wins. Find a brand, a team and an area that you can be passionate about and stick with your plan."

Memorable moments along the way

As is the case in any journey, la Grange has enjoyed some memorable moments throughout his real estate franchising career. "Most of these moments were created by overcoming obstacles and sharing the success that comes with hard work and dedication," he comments. "For example, it is an amazing privilege to give young people work opportunities and help them grow in their careers. Also, scrolling through the positive reviews that we've received from clients is a constant reminder of how far we've come since we started this business - and of the important role we play in our clients lives in connecting them to home.

La Grange makes it clear that a real estate franchising journey is just that: a real journey. Having the support, training, together with the vision, purpose and values of Jawitz Properties as a franchisor has made all the difference for his business, and the ongoing expansion of his franchise footprint bears testament to his confidence in the brand and what it stands for. You can find out more about Jawitz Properties' franchising opportunities today or contact us directly for a chat.