03 October 2023
South Africa’s property industry has been hard hit by the country’s economic instability and skyrocketing interest rates. As a result, many real estate brands have been forced to tighten their belts in the face of subdued market activity.
According to the Rawson Property Group, however, unusual times breed unusual opportunities – opportunities this particular brand has been welcoming with open arms.
“We’re extremely proud that our Rawson footprint has continued to grow, despite the unprecedented times we are living in,” says Tony Clarke, MD of the Rawson Property Group. “It’s a powerful testament to our franchise model, and the support structure, training and technology that makes it possible for new franchisees to hit the ground running and thrive under almost any circumstances.”
Anthony Marshall, franchisee at Rawson Hartbeespoort since March 2023, believes that this success-focussed support system is a critical element of the Rawson brand’s appeal.
“As someone who came from another agency, I can confidently say that Rawson’s dedication to its agents and franchisees sets them apart,” he says. “The way they provide assistance and resources is unparalleled, which undoubtedly contributes to their continuous stream of awards and recognition. It’s evident that Rawson’s success is rooted in its unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving and supportive environment.”
Hilton Warrington, franchisee at Rawson Woodstock since September 2022, agrees that the Rawson onboarding process is next-level.
“My start in real estate with another brand was a few meetings in a coffee shop and a visit to the closest office. After that, I had to teach myself all of the systems,” he says, “It was mind-blowing moving to Rawson, where there is somebody responsible for everything. The training is structured and thorough and the sessions are relevant. I thought I knew real estate before I joined this group, but now my eyes have been opened!”
For Ridwan Bham and Arshad Chaya, co-franchisees at the new Rawson Polokwane Sales, Rentals and Commercial office, Rawson’s onboarding may have been seamless, but it was the ongoing training and technology that inspired their brand loyalty.
“The Rawson Training Academy is immersive, and the support offered in all facets of training is without comparison,” says Bham. “Rawson software is also the best on the market. The tools available through the Rawson Engage ecosystem are easy to use and contain all the necessary information and functionality to allow agents to excel.”
Of course, even the best tools, training and technology cannot create customers, but that doesn’t mean Rawson leaves its franchisees hanging. When it comes to building a client base, the brand’s national recognition, active marketing support, and extensive lead generation offer significant competitive advantages to new (and established) franchises.
“The marketing support has been fantastic, and we’ve made great use of the resource,” says Alessandro Mariola, co-franchisee with Giuliano Giacovazzi at Rawson Green Point & Camps Bay since January 2020.
“I only have good things to say about our experiences with our Rawson marketing manager,” agrees Arshad Chaya, co-franchisee of Rawson Polokwane Sales, Rentals & Commercial. “We’ve also been given a lot of support from our business development manager in the day-to-day functions of making our business a success, and we’re forming bonds with colleagues across the country. It’s a great culture and wonderful family to be a part of.”
40 years in the making, the Rawson Property Group family is certainly well-established with a robust, national footprint and active referral network. The brand isn’t about to rest on its laurels, however. Ongoing development remains a key priority as the group turns its attention to the future.
“The real estate industry is one of constant shifts and changes,” says Rawson MD, Tony Clarke. “It’s only by remaining agile, innovative and ahead of the curve that we can continue to empower our franchisees to turn challenges into opportunities. Our ongoing growth is a great indication that we’re on the right track. We have every intention of maintaining that positive trajectory well into the future.”
