PROPERLY MANAGING PROPERTY

Martin Duncan’s appreciation for the Quinovic business stretches back more than 15 years to when he was working in the finance lending department of a Wellington bank. He had been particularly impressed by how promptly Quinovic dealt with maintenance issues on any of their rental properties and how both inspections and photographs always met high professional standards.

So, when time and circumstances provided the opportunity to purchase his own rental property, naturally he turned to the same management company that he knew would perform to such a high standard.

“They basically provided the whole package, and I never had any issues with the management of that property. It also allowed me to free up my time to do other things,” he recalls.

Then, two years ago, the opportunity to purchase the Quinovic Porirua franchise presented itself, and Martin jumped at the chance to invest in the business, alongside co-owner Louise Hawthorne.

“Quinovic’s business development manager put the numbers together for me, so I was fully informed on the business’s turnover, attrition rates, potential upsides, and ways to grow the business further,” he says.

“We also had Quinovic’s group office assisting with marketing, the IT system and setting up the business with software such as MYOB.

“In a nutshell Quinovic guided me all the way from making an offer, right through to settlement. They’ve also provided excellent guidance with the day-to-day management processes since then.”

Proven model, robust technology

There are currently over 35 Quinovic franchises in New Zealand. Sponsorship of events such as the recent Quinovic NZ PGA Golf Championship is creating extensive awareness for the brand, its excellent reputation and business opportunities.

Martin describes the business support technology behind the franchise as exceptional. He says that Quinovic’s robust proprietary Quinovic Property Management software (QPMS) features regular enhancements to align with best practice industry standards and legislation.

“Both QPMS and third-party tools and systems such as Inspection Express and Renti are continually updated, and they really help you run your business smarter.”

He describes the technology as “logical, easy-to-follow-your-nose stuff” that helps put information that property owners and tenants need right at their fingertips – everything from financials through to inspections and maintenance.

“Put simply, it makes business interactions much more seamless.

Compliance is a major factor in the successful management of property, and again this is where the Quinovic system is extremely helpful.

Martin rates Quinovic’s training and ongoing support for franchisees as “excellent and really valuable”.

“It’s particularly useful for ensuring we stay across new technology and new legislation, and that our property owners remain compliant.” 

Looking to the future, Martin can see AI technology further enhancing the partnerships between tenants, owners and Quinovic’s franchisees. And for his own future, Martin has just taken ownership of a second Quinovic office, with a third in progress.

Time to talk

If you’re wondering if you’ve got what it takes to succeed as a Quinovic franchisee, Martin says sales proficiency is definitely beneficial, as is any previous business experience.

“The ability to put in the hours and lead from the front is important. You’ll need to display good leadership, remain calm under pressure and have a solutions-based focus.”

Martin’s advice for anyone keen to enter New Zealand’s dynamic property management sector is to talk to existing Quinovic franchisees, “Come see what a day in the life of a business owner looks like”.

One of Martin’s favourites times of the year is when Quinovic stages its annual conference. “It’s such an interesting time to catch up with all the other franchisees. We’re all in the same boat – we all want to do what’s best for both property owners and tenants, and for growing a sustainable business to capitalise on in the future.”

And Martin particularly gets satisfaction from building people up around him. “That’s the real attraction for me – helping others gain the abilities to do what needs to be done.
“This business is such a good way to earn a living. It’s my intention to manage my Quinovic businesses into my retirement years.”

Time to back yourself

Climbing the property management ladder successfully requires a strong service ethic and a real focus on people and technology.

Quinovic franchisees tick all those boxes, says Phil Jones, Quinovic’s Franchise Development Manager.

“We’re always seeking commercially capable leaders with a strong service, people and technology focus. They must have a genuine commitment to delivering outstanding service to property owners as well as tenants.”

They must also lead by example, just as Martin Duncan has demonstrated. “This involves recruiting great people, developing their teams and fostering a culture of accountability, support and excellence,” explains Phil.

All Quinovic franchisees understand that only consistent, high quality service results in long-term trust and greater business value, he adds.

“If you’re confident with technology, make sound commercial decisions, manage resources wisely and can drive sustainable results through a well-led team and strong relationships, then give us a call.”  

See this advertorial on page 33 of Franchise New Zealand magazine Year 35 Issue 01

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