Franchisee Profile: Janelle Joyce

A Niagara Falls, New York native, Janelle attended a New York state college where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing. Upon graduation, Janelle began working for a small restaurant franchise before moving to Phoenix to pursue an opportunity with a medical spa franchise selling laser equipment to doctor’s offices. While working for the spa franchise Janelle began a franchise consulting firm where she helped prospective franchises such as coffee shop, restaurants and medical franchises set up initial operations and negotiate retail space.

During her time as a franchise consultant, a business acquaintance introduced her to Showhomes. Combining her business background, franchise experience, entrepreneurial spirit and creative skills, Janelle felt that Showhomes was the perfect opportunity for her and decided to take over the Phoenix location when the previous owner moved to another state.

Janelle has always had a creative flair and enjoys staying up-to-date on interior design trends thus making her career a passion. Janelle feels that in order to successfully sell a home, home owners must appropriately market and design their space to appeal to a buyer. After working with Showhomes for several years Janelle has seen a trend in staged homes selling faster than others on the market.

With a territory that focuses on luxury home design, Janelle has been able to grow her business rapidly throughout the area whilst keeping a respectful clientele list including Kurt Warner, Joe Garagiola and Hugh Downs.

How did you learn about Showhomes and why did you take an opportunity with the brand?

One of my business acquaintances was a home manager for Showhomes and introduced me to the brand. The previous Phoenix owner was moving out of the state and looking to sell. With the territory available, and me looking to begin owning and operating my own franchise, it was the perfect time. I have always enjoyed real estate, design and project management.

I chose Showhomes because of the unique business model. Showhomes is a win-win situation for four different people: the homeowner who has someone taking care of their home and utilities; the realtor, who has the space decorated for presentation; the home manager who is able to live in a nice home for a quarter of the cost; and the buyer who is able to envision themselves in the home and also see potential furniture placement. Showhomes brings a positive value for everyone.

Do you have any clients that have recently had major success in selling their home?

I recently had a woman who brought me on the job before the house was listed. Within ten days of the home being on the market it had sold.

Where are the majority of your clients from?

Mostly from repeat real estate agents, and a quarter of my clients come from builders, flippers and former clients.

What are some challenges you face?

With a business growing as quickly as Showhomes time management becomes a major issue. We are looking to bring people in that we can trust to get the job done and stage homes beautifully. The more talent we have, the more homes we will be able to stage and deliver the perfect product every time.