Written by GCC added to the archive on 2nd Sep 2008
Keywords: 'Credit Crunch, franchise success, economic climate, '

Crunch Cuts Mean Business For This Franchise

The Garage Conversion Company is the No1 conversion company in the UK and the first to recognise the potential of converting unutilised garage space into living accommodation.

In the current economic climate the company has seen an increase in conversions by well over 100%. There is high demand for additional living space and with 14 out of 15 houses on the market left unsold, frustrated homeowners are looking closely at how to achieve ‘that extra room’ without moving.

“It is a logical solution,” explains Phil Bateman, Managing Director of The Garage Conversion Company. “Many people just can’t afford to move house but need extra space. By converting their garage, they gain a room that they can use for a whole range of purposes and add value to their property.”

However there are several options to achieving extra space: an average single garage conversion costs around £10k, a conservatory £15k and a loft conversion approaching £30k. With a garage conversion you are looking to increase the value of your home by a minimum of 10% and so taking a current house valued at £300k you could be adding a minimum of £30k to that value.

The Garage Conversion Company has converted over 2000 garages nationwide varying from bedrooms, studies, offices, playrooms and kitchens. More exotic conversions have included a home cinema, virtual golf course and the very popular ‘granny annexe’.

Many good garages stand empty: crammed full of tins of paint, broken furniture and discarded toys. There is no wonder the discerning home owner wishes to turn it into a habitable area, rather than wasting mortgage money on dead space - a ‘no brainer’ one might say!

It’s easy to see why this franchise opportunity has become a popular choice. A new entry level set at under £5k has made it easier for individuals to get started. The Garage Conversion Company now receive over 120 enquiries a week for conversions making a total of 6,240 enquiries a year for franchisees. These leads are passed directly from head office to the franchisee in that region. Yet demand for conversions is rising beyond supply leaving some home owners in some areas on a waiting list until a franchisee in that region comes onboard.

Individuals or existing small businesses with experience or an interest in building are ideal candidates for a Garage Conversion Company franchise. “Ideal individuals come from a variety of backgrounds but all have good people handling skills, are motivated and ready to succeed,” says Phil.

“Some franchisees are turning over £100k a month. Many people are realising that this business is well worth the investment and that this investment can be returned quickly,” continues Phil.

The franchise industry in the UK is now worth over £13 billion. This is because many people now choose to work for themselves and prefer to reduce the risk of failure by starting their business as a franchise which offers proven systems and an established brand. The Garage Conversion Company offer an extensive training program which provides all the necessary skills to operate successfully. Their team of in-house experts will provide training in all aspects of the franchise with ongoing support in the field after initial training has been completed.

With an increase in redundancies predicted over the next year and a reduction in people moving house, this business presents a win/ win opportunity for both the home owner needing more space and the individual looking for a profitable new career path where they can be their own boss.