Richardson & Wrench has appointed a National Growth Manager to drive the expansion of the R&W group in metropolitan and regional NSW and Queensland.
Chris Scerri joins the network with an 11 - year background in real estate across residential sales, commercial sales, leasing, auctions and franchise recruitment.
Mr Scerri began his real estate career on the Central Coast in 2003 before moving to Sydney in 2009 to seek further challenges within the pressure cooker Sydney market. Through this background and from his activity as an accomplished auctioneer, Chris has an extensive knowledge of all major markets within R&W’s footprint.
R&W Managing Director Andrew Cocks said Mr Scerri’s appointment came at a time when real estate professionals were focussing on the increasing challenges in commencing and running a modern real estate business.
“Chris has the experience and skills to play an important role in communicating the brand values and benefits and opportunities of the Richardson & Wrench network,” said Mr Cocks. “The timing is perfect to focus on growth, with the R&W group stronger than ever and our ability to offer a range of flexible business models presenting franchise options ideally suited to the changing nature of real estate.
“The past four to five years have seen significant price growth in many of our core markets but with much lower listing volumes than historic levels. This, along with continuously increasing overheads, has seen real pressure on profits for many operators, leading them to review the commercial structure, service and value of their franchise arrangements.
“Now, with the market showing undeniable signs of slowing, any astute business owner will be reviewing their business plan and looking for ways to ensure they are getting value for money.”
Mr Cocks said R&W’s fixed fee-exclusive territory franchise model presented established business owners with greater certainty particularly as the battle for limited listings intensifies, while the flexible bespoke franchise options can be tailored to individual circumstances which is ideal for successful agents looking to start their journey as business owners.
“Richardson & Wrench has great business models which sees a fairer return of profits to the owner who has invested all the hard work and money into building their brand,” said Mr Scerri.
“More than that, the network has a culture and loyalty that is rare in real estate. It is very family oriented and there is a real feeling of unity across the group. It starts at Head Office and is apparent throughout the network. It is a one team attitude where the members are prepared to share knowledge and advice and everyone benefits.”
Mr Scerri said he would initially concentrate on opportunities to expand in Sydney’s Inner West, Hills District and North Shore as well as building upon recent openings in the Hunter and the Illawarra.