From doom and gloom to a Belvoir franchise

Lee Shuell

“When I was made redundant last year it knocked me for six,” says Lee, who opened Belvoir Oldham in November 2008.

“I worked for a large mortgage company and when the market changed there were many redundancies. I was one of the unlucky ones and was devastated.

“I got the call when I was on holiday so I had plenty of time for reflection and my family supported me. Once home I rang around my contacts and registered with recruitment companies but although I had numerous interviews it just didn't happen for me.

“I'd always wanted to work for myself and the property industry interested me so I started considering investing in a property franchise. I've got my own buy-to-let property and plenty of contacts in the industry from my mortgage days. Plus, I knew there were a high proportion of rental properties in Oldham so a lettings agency seemed the perfect solution.

“After finding Belvoir’s website I had a chat with one of the team and was very impressed with the tremendous support they give to their Franchise Owners. I knew straight away it was the right company for me.

“ When I opened Belvoir Oldham last November I was nervous but it has been great. As soon as the phone rang for the first time I knew I'd done the right thing.

“I've gone from being an employee to an employer and it’s certainly challenging but I’m thoroughly enjoying it. Each day is busy, which is very encouraging, and I'm pleased with the number of properties I’ve taken on - and let - in such a short space of time.

“In the longterm I want to grow the business quickly, employ more staff and become the biggest and most recognised residential lettings agent in Oldham. I may eventually open sub offices around the Oldham area too...

"From out of the doom and gloom of redundancy can come great opportunities. There's currently such fierce competition to get a job you have to look outside the box and create an opportunity for yourself.

“Opening Belvoir Oldham really is the best decision I’ve ever made. I'm working hard but I'm working for myself and my family now and there's a lot of satisfaction in that. I’m really happy!”

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