Simon & Anna Mackaness

Simon and Anna Mackaness are PPP franchise partners based in Northampton. Since they joined in July 2007, the couple have bought 7 UK buy to let properties, with 43 rental units, which generate a gross yield of over 15%, an industry-leading level for residential buy to let. The annual gross profit from this portfolio – after they have paid the mortgage, all utility and other bills, and allowing for maintenance and void periods – is around £100,000 and the gross return on their own capital invested is over 33%.

Their motivation for joining PPP was a desire to find a business they could run together and one which would quickly generate enough cashflow to pay for their children’s education. They had looked at a number of franchise opportunities, but found most of the businesses uninspiring. “Most of the opportunities we looked at seemed to involve huge numbers but a relatively tiny profit”, says Simon, a former insurance broking director. “I just couldn’t see a long-term future that I’d be happy with. PPP’s was the only one we looked at that really caught our interest. Most of my family are involved in property in some way, and it seems a very logical, sensible basis for a business, with tangible short and long term profitability and excellent pension provision.”

Their plan for the next 12 months is to consolidate the portfolio and make it more efficient. Says Simon, “I know we’re making good profit, but I also know there are areas where we can still minimise the outgoings. Running this business properly takes time and effort and Anna and I are aware that with our busy lives we haven’t been doing everything we could to really maximise the profitability. By following the franchise system and with PPP’s ongoing support I have no doubt we will see increased profits this year.”