A trio of new franchisees have signed up to Century 21’s ‘Flex’ model, which was launched at the end of last year.

The model is designed for agents looking for flexible working as it gives franchisees the opportunity to setting their own working hours and without the fixed costs of maintaining a high-street office.

The first to sign up to the Flex model was Preston-based Sandeep Shukla – a former convenience store and Post Office owner for 13 years.

Commenting on his decision to sign-up to Flex and enter the property market, Shukla said: “I have lived and worked in Preston for many years, so I have a great understanding of the local community and recognise what people value here, not only from a property perspective, but also with customer service – they want honesty, good communication and a personable attitude.

“I signed up to the Flex model because I wanted to have the best of both worlds – the freedom to set up my own business while maintaining my family life, and the accessibility of a professional work space, all bolstered by a well-respected brand and the support of an experienced team.

“The property market also excites me – with many people still actively buying and selling despite there being a lot of financial uncertainty. That uncertainty and potential for a continued lockdown though, has made people sit up and re-evaluate what they want from a home. I’m excited to bring a varied portfolio of properties to Preston and Southport, with hopes to expand later down the line.”

Also joining Shukla on the Flex model is Birmingham-based Rajan Gill, who’s family business in property, from owning hotels and buy-to-let properties, encouraged him to enter the industry.

The final sign-up is an accountant, Lawrence Ayeni. He is setting his sights on the Chingford and Woodford areas of East London.

Chris Summers, head of franchising at Century 21 UK, commented: “To have three new Century 21 Flex businesses opening so soon after the launch in late December shows our predictions for the future of the market, and its industry experts, were correct. Using the pull of our brand, which has been in the industry for over five decades, and our newly-launched models to suit the changing landscape, we have been able to facilitate the expansion of the property market – even while the UK remains under its current lockdown restrictions.

“Our models enable potential franchisees and agents already in our system, to fulfil their goals of setting up their own business without the high set-up fees often associated with it. I’m delighted to welcome Sandeep, Rajan and Lawrence to our growing network and I look forward to supporting them.”