Zara and James Stoole had already run a nationwide business with over 70 locations before launching My Property Pros in East Herts in June 2024. What they were looking for this time wasn’t hand-holding, it was community, and a franchise network that felt like more than just a business on paper.
Already seasoned business owners
When Zara and James Stoole launched their My Property Pros (MPP) franchise in East Herts in June 2024, it wasn’t their first time running a business together. With a background in car valeting and online retail, the couple already had years of entrepreneurial experience under their belts. But what drew them to MPP wasn’t just the earning potential – it was the chance to be part of a supportive network and community.
“After running a nationwide business with over 70 locations, I knew what it felt like to manage at scale – but when that came to an end, I really wanted something more grounded and community-focused. Franchising with MPP felt like the right fit because it gave us the freedom to run things our way, but with the reassurance of a trusted brand behind us,”
James Stoole
“James already had decades of experience in cleaning cars, so MPP was something not too dissimilar that felt like a homecoming for him, and I’ve been able to put my account manager skills to good use behind the scenes while still getting stuck in on the jobs. It works really well for us as a team,”
Zara Stoole
Looking for community, not hand-holding
Unlike many new franchisees, Zara and James weren’t looking for handholding when they joined My Property Pros – they’d already built and run million-pound businesses together. What they did want, though, was the sense of community that comes with being part of a franchise network. Having experienced the isolation that can come with running a business alone, they were excited by the idea of connecting with like-minded people, sharing the journey and even making lasting friendships along the way.
“We’ve become really close with Chris and Diane from Barnet and South Herts – we actually go out most Fridays together! It makes such a difference having that kind of friendship within the network. Running a business can sometimes feel a bit lonely, but with MPP we’ve got people around us who understand what it’s like and who we genuinely enjoy spending time with,”
James Stoole
The support behind the brand
“MPP has a secret recipe when it comes to marketing – the leaflets, the branding, the systems – it all just works. And the support is second to none. Karen and Dave treat the business like it’s their own child; they put their heart and soul into it. No matter when we call, they pick up the phone and make sure we’ve got what we need,”
Zara Stoole
A one-stop shop on wheels
MPP franchisees operate from fully equipped, eye-catching vans – the ultimate advert on wheels! A range of complementary, in-demand services mean franchisees can work year-round and cross-sell with ease – from roof and render cleaning to gutter clearing and maintenance, jet washing and window cleaning. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, almost all cleaning is completed with both feet firmly on the ground! As for your dreams… the sky’s the limit!
“People are always stopping us to say they’ve seen me out and about in the van – you really can’t miss it! Customers love the fact that we’re a true one-stop shop. Just last week, we had someone ask us to take care of everything from the roof down. It saves them so much time and hassle having one reliable team rather than trying to track down five different trades,”
James Stoole
“Soft washing is quickly becoming one of our most popular services, and it’s easy to see why. It delivers fantastic results for customers, and for us as a business it’s one of the most efficient jobs we deliver – the running costs are low, but the profits are high. We’re really leaning into it because it has so much potential, and we know it’s going to be a huge part of the future of exterior cleaning,”
Zara Stoole
Giving back along the way
Being part of My Property Pros has given Zara and James the platform not just to build a thriving business, but also to make a difference in their community. In June, they took on the challenge of climbing Snowdon to raise funds for the Children’s Liver Foundation – a cause close to Zara’s heart. Thanks to the support of customers, friends and their local network, they raised an incredible £1,600. For Zara and James, it’s proof that running an MPP franchise is about more than exterior cleaning – it’s also about having the freedom and flexibility to give back in ways that really matter.
What’s next
“Our plan is to really grow the soft washing side of the business because it’s such a new and exciting service, and people are only just starting to realise the benefits. Long term, we’d love to expand into new territories and hire some new team members, but for now it’s about building a strong base in East Herts and making sure we’re known as the go-to for everything exterior cleaning,”
Zara Stoole
Advice to a prospective franchisee
“You need persistence and a strong work ethic. Your dream work-life balance won’t happen overnight, but if you keep going and put the work in, you’ll get there. The model works, the demand is there – it’s just about sticking with it and being prepared to graft at the start. The payoff is worth it.”
James Stoole
About My Property Pros
Founded in 1996, My Property Pros is the UK’s first and only national exterior property cleaning franchise. Having identified and leveraged a gap in the market close to three decades ago, the brand is now firmly established as a highly profitable, award-winning, multi-van franchise opportunity. Franchisees benefit from cutting-edge technology, proprietary software systems and a team that’s absolutely dedicated to their success.
Individual results vary. This case study reflects Zara and James Stoole’s own experience and has been reviewed and approved by them in writing. It is not a guarantee or projection of earnings for any other franchisee.
Could your next business feel like this?
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