I see myself still being around in five years time and enjoying what I do

Bairstow Eves franchise owner Rachel Foster hasn't looked back since joining the brand five years ago.

An experienced estate agent, Rachel Foster began looking for a franchise because she knew that although she wanted to own her own business, she also wanted to be part of a national brand.

"I was an estate agent for eight years for a local independent agency," Rachel explains. "My employers were retiring so I decided to set up my own estate agency business, and I wanted to be associated with a national company and brand. I knew that by going down the franchise route I would have the back up and support that I would need.

"After looking into various estate agent franchises, I chose Bairstow Eves because the brand name is recognised throughout the UK. In addition Bairstow Eves Franchising came across as a very professional company and the support they offered was second to none."

Although Rachel came from an estate agent background before becoming a franchise owner, Bairstow Eves Franchising is keen to hear from potential franchise owners from all backgrounds who possess team management skills and leadership qualities and the ability to contribute to the brand's growth. In return, Bairstow Eves Franchising provides comprehensive training and support to all its franchise owners.

Rachel launched her Huddersfield-based Bairstow Eves business at the start of 2005. "Before the launch, I received fantastic support from head office," she reveals. "The head office team helped me with the whole process of launching my business from the business planning, the sourcing of suitable premises, the interviewing and training of staff - right through to the actual opening day."

As a self-described "workaholic" Rachel has grown her business steadily and built it into a thriving business. Over the last two years she has concentrated on ensuring her business remains stable so that it is ready to grow further once the economy improves.

"I have a team of loyal and hard working staff who have been with me for years," she states. "Business has been more difficult during the current economic climate, however I see myself still being around in five years time and still enjoying what I do."

For Rachel, one of the main benefits of owning a Bairstow Eves franchise is it's 'one-stop shop approach' for people looking to buy, sell, let or rent a property.

"I initially only dealt with property sales, but I launched a lettings department at the start of this year to add to my business' success," she comments. "The lettings aspect of the industry is strong and this should really help my business grow and flourish further in the future."

Reported by Derin Ibrahim