Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in property management but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jodie Fraser, Founder & Managing Director of Fraser Allen Estate Management, located in Cheltenham, UK.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are specialists in residential block and estate management, which means that we manage communal areas such as gardening, communal cleaning, building insurance, health, and safety compliance, and estate accounting. We adhere to the terms of the lease accordingly, as every lease is different, and regulations for the development can vary. Our customers are freeholders, directors acting on behalf of the right to manage the company, or developers.
Tell us about yourself
My business was created to create change in the block management world. To be focused on leaseholder care and customer service and to ensure our residents feel safe in their homes. With the cladding crisis, Covid-19, the cost of living increase, and energy costs rising, it’s been a really difficult time for our residents. Our focus is to try our utmost to relieve that stress and anxiety from them by giving honest and professional advice. The company prides itself on being kind and compassionate and putting the needs of the client and their mental well-being first.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
One of our biggest achievements is becoming a corporate ambassador for The Hollie Gazzard Trust. We support them by creating awareness around stalking, bullying, sexual harassment, and domestic abuse. We have also implemented the Hollie Guard app within our business. As soon as I heard about Hollie Guard, I immediately knew it was something I had to get involved in within my business to keep myself and my team as safe as possible. It’s now my mission to implement the app across the industry and assist with awareness training to help our industry work without fear.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
It can be really lonely at times, and when you have to make difficult decisions without anyone to discuss them with, you can become quite isolated and withdrawn. It’s why I’m also focusing on mentoring younger property managers to support them in making these tough calls and to support their well-being.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Understand your market and your customers. What they really need from you and how you can help.
- Invest in your well-being. The business won’t work without you, so it’s incredibly important to look after your physical and mental health.
- Create the right team and support network around you. They’ll be more valuable than you realise.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fraserallenem.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fraser_allen_estate_management/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-fraser-795716159/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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