Preston Baker are making their mark with trailblazing self-employed recruitment model

We're building the future of estate agency through a trailblazing self-employed associate model, presenting driven individuals with a unique opportunity to go it alone while fully supported.

Preston Baker is intent on playing a pivotal role in removing the shackles and frustrations of traditional employed estate agency roles, by paving the way for those looking for freedom and impressive earning potential to join its growing number of self-employed associates.

“We live in a fast-changing world and as a business owner it’s crucial to adapt, pivot and make changes when needed,” said Ian Preston, Preston Baker’s co-founder and CEO.

“The world has changed drastically since we founded Preston Baker in 2008, and while our core aim is always to deliver service of the highest standard for all our customers, the way we run our business and recruit our team is ever-evolving and we pride ourselves on leading the way in estate agency.”

Ian says the post-pandemic shift in what people are looking for from their work is having a significant impact on the way businesses operate.

New priorities include flexibility, work-life balance and financial freedom, leading to the introduction of a new self-employed associate model at Preston Baker in order to combat some of the most common frustrations with employment.

“We want to give driven, passionate individuals a platform for success with all the support of our award-winning estate agency behind them,” Ian said.

“Home movers really value having a personal associate who is their sole point of contact and who works hard to get the best outcome, as well as help with their onward move if necessary, and we offer that; it’s all about creating the very best experience for everyone.”

The Preston Baker model allows estate agents to start their own business with the backing of a well-known and reputable brand, minimising the risks usually associated with branching out on their own. Associates are fully supported with lead generation, have their marketing costs covered and are guaranteed an income for the first nine months of their journey.

Ian added: “Over the last few years, people have re-evaluated their lives and are less willing to compromise on the things that matter most to them.

“Having the ability to take control of your own earnings and work at the time that makes the most sense for you used to be the dream, but now it can very much be a reality. Many people have wanted to take the leap and go out on their own for years but have been held back by numerous worries.

“Being a Preston Baker Associate means you can transition into self-employment without the fear of losing income or having the capital to start your own business, meaning you can focus on maximising the opportunity and generating results, rather than worrying about money.”

The scheme has already had an impressive impact, with our sales rate increasing from 82 per cent pre-associate model to 96 per cent after its introduction.

With our utilisation of technology and working in smart new ways, associates can concentrate on offering the very best customer service and achieving their goals; a win-win for associates, customers, and Preston Baker.

While employed valuers may be pressured into taking on stock they don’t think they can sell in order to hit instruction targets, Preston Baker Associates work very differently, covering a specific location and taking on only a limited number of instructions.

Ian said: “Our model is proving successful, with a growing number of self-employed associates, and our most successful associates are earning upwards of £150,000 per year.

“There is hard work involved, of course, but the self-employed model gives freedom and we trust our associates to take full advantage of this fantastic opportunity.

“Many people believe that working in an employed role equals more security, but this is not necessarily true. If the business circumstances change, your job can be at risk no matter how well you perform.

“We have put a lot of thought into how we can make our recruitment model the best it can be, that’s why when you take on a self-employed role with Preston Baker you are in control of your own career, with the full support of our in-house team.

“You get out what you put in. As long as you are ambitious and hard-working, you’ll be able to reap the benefits of secure self-employment.

“We’ve listened to people on the things they struggle with most and created a model that tackles these issues - and we think it’s the way to success and the future of estate agency!”

To find out more about the Preston Baker Associate Scheme, visit: https://prestonbaker.co.uk/become-a-preston-baker-associate