Paul Franklin is the Managing Director of Franklins Residential and Commercial Estate Agents in Donegal. In 1999, it began as a small business in Raphoe, but over the years has expanded and evolved considerably. Franklins now employs 15 people and has two offices based in Letterkenny and Buncrana.
What was your first ever job and how long did you last?
After prematurely leaving art school at 17 I wanted to try and pursue a career in golf. I was playing off a low handicap and became an assistant professional at a prestigious golf club in Surrey, under the supervision of a charismatic Welsh professional. Despite a weekly retainer of just £10 (for a 70 hour week in the summer!), my mentor was an interesting man with a keen eye for the ladies. I survived in the position for two years, despite often relaying the wrong messages to many of his female friends!
What initially attracted you to working in the property business?
My father was a commercial estate agent all of his life, working and based mainly in the city of London. I grew up with property therefore morning, noon and night, the conversations at the dining table regularly about his travels across the country and transactions he was involved in. My father's world involved many colourful characters within his industry, many of whom l met and played golf with. It seemed to me that estate agency attracted some interesting people and the diversity of the business also appealed.
The financial rewards also appeared favourable to those prepared to work hard. My younger brother became a residential estate agent before me and Iwas fascinated with the business from a young age. It was, I suppose inevitable, that I followed in my father and brother's footsteps and have no regrets.
The property business after all these years continues to stimulate me and the diversity within our county makes it all the more enjoyable.
How did Franklins Estate Agency come about?
Franklins originated as Paul Franklin Associates in 1999. The business was originally based at Drumineney House, Raphoe, a 300 year old country house that was my home for a number of years.
One of the capacious reception rooms was our first office - a charming, light room - double aspect with high windows and overlooking the beautiful mature grounds. In the winter the large open fireplace was used daily with numerous baskets of turf and logs - it was very civilised l must say!
We had two very noisy dogs who greeted prospective clients or buyers. I started the business with one employee. We did everything ourselves including all the typing and property brochures. l was regularly working until nine or 10 o'clock in those days.
When we had four staff it reached a point where a move became necessary to further expand the business and Letterkenny, as the county's principal town was the obvious choice. We have never looked back - although our first office was delightful!
Brendan McGee joined the company at Raphoe and has been with Franklins ever since. Brendan is now an equity Director with the company and manages our Buncrana office which opened in April 2006.
Who did you learn the ropes from about the industry?
My father has always been an inspiration and continues to be - his enthusiasm for the business was certainly a key factor in my decision to become an estate agent. My first job however as a trainee negotiator with a multi-office practice in Surrey - Bridgers, was a very fortunate experience. I worked under one of the company's partners a Mr John Slatter whose tireless energy l found very infectious. Added to this John was totally committed to providing the most professional service possible. The company was hugely successful and this was not surprising. Bridgers was sold for a substantial sum in the 80's but after a sabbatical for a short period, John acquired another Surrey practice that has also been expanded to many offices. At 56 the energy shows no sign of abating !
If you could work in any other industry, what would it be and why?
I did own an Italian style pizzeria /restaurant with my brother for about 7 years in Middlesex - we often assisted the chefs when we were short staffed. Hectic, very tiring but fun! People would come from far and wide to Pizzeria Bartolozzi - we had a queue to get in most nights of the week! It was a great experience, but l am pleased to be back in my natural habitat. Food and cooking remain a passion, Italian, Chinese and Thai dishes are my particular favourites. It is however a constant struggle to balance this passion with trying to maintain some kind of fitness!
What has been the single highlight of your career to date?
Opening Franklins and continuing to watch it grow. I have the privilege of working with some of industry's finest people in the North West. A tremendous team spirit exists at Franklins and an 'anything is possible' attitude creates an exciting environment in which to work. My interest and curiosity in the property business was always there but it has developed further over the years. Our industry is particularly stimulating within the county of Donegal.
