Help-U-Sell convention to address industry changes

Changes within the industry will be the focus of Help-U-Sell Real Estate's annual convention to be held Thursday and Friday at the Las Vegas Hilton.

The convention's theme, "Ascending to a Higher Level," reflects the company's 38 percent growth in 2002 and the signing of its 300th franchise earlier this year.

"We are experiencing the most sweeping changes in our industry's history, driven in large part by more savvy home sellers. The number of inquiries we receive and new franchisees we sign, tells me that this is just the tip of the iceberg in this real estate revolution," President Rick O'Neil said.

If the company continues to grow at its present rate, O'Neil said he expects to reach 1,800 franchises by the end of 2008.

About 500 longtime, new and prospective Help-U-Sell affiliates from throughout the United States and Canada are expected to attend the two-day event, which will be filled with seminars on technological advances in the industry and motivational activities, as well as an awards banquet.

Bryan Drakulich, the company's regional director for Nevada, said the convention's primary focus will be enhancing marketing techniques for its franchise owners.

"Help-U-Sell is unique. It is not a real estate company; it is a marketing company," Drakulich said from his Sparks office. "The power of that is that if we list a consumer's home, because Help-U-Sell is so advanced in the realm of selling real estate, it generates a lot of activity, sells quicker and saves the consumer money."

Differing from traditional commission-based realty firms, Help-U-Sell uses a fee-for-service approach.

O'Neil, along with Drakulich and other corporate officers, will host an informal gathering prior to the convention's start for those interested in learning more about the company and franchise opportunities. Those serious about starting a franchise will be invited to attend the remainder of the convention, Drakulich said.

Four of the state's eight franchises are located in Las Vegas. Another three, in Las Vegas, Henderson and Dayton, are expected to open this spring.

"Two of those who started franchises (in Las Vegas) last year already bought second franchises. That shows how well (the company) has been received by consumers and how excited brokers are about the system," Drakulich said.

Help-U-Sell Real Estate was founded in 1976. It operates in 30 regions nationwide and in Canada; corporate headquarters are located in Syosset, N.Y.

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