Husband and wife team Ky and Mark O’Shea have worked most of their careers in the hospitality and tourism industries – Mark starting out as a Chef, whilst Ky worked as a travel agent and in events and conferencing roles. Their journey led them to become Property Managers with Quest, and it was during this time they realised the excellent opportunity to be had from being locals to local Quest business owners in their own right.

Ky and I started our Quest journey over 17 years ago. Prior to Quest we had always worked in hospitality. We always wanted to be business owners and love all aspects of the hospitality industry. Quest was the perfect partner for us to build wealth through owning and operating our own business. We knew about the Quest Business Format Franchise Model after being employed as property managers for the first two years and knew we wanted to be a part of the Quest family.

What sets Quest apart from other accommodation providers?

The biggest difference is all Quest Apartment Hotels are owned and operated by business owners. This ensures every property provides the best accommodation standards, premium customer service and most of all local expert knowledge. Business owners will always go the extra mile to ensure the guests are well looked after while staying at their properties. Quest Apartments are also part of The Ascott Limited group which is the largest Serviced Apartment provider in the Southern Hemisphere which I am sure in the future will open plenty of market opportunities.

What’s your favourite thing about being a multi-unit business owner?

The best thing about being a multi-unit business owner is to have the ability to work with Joint Venture partners who have the same goals and mindset as us. Which is to build personal wealth and provide the best customer service as possible. Our business partners are passionate, professional and driven to succeed which aligns with our goals. It is great to be able to help others reach their financial goals. 

How do you know when you’re ready to take on another property?

The most important thing is your team. You must have the right team in place at your current property before anything else. This will allow you the time and mindset to take on additional properties. Also finding the right Joint Venture partner is paramount. You must be aligned with your business goals and ambitions. Lastly, you have to be financially ready. The last couple of years has taught us you never know what’s around the corner and it's important not to be over leveraged. 

What advice would you give current franchisees looking to expand their portfolio?

Make sure you are committed to the Quest Model and systems. You have to want the same success for your Joint Venture partners as much as your own. Also in our experience distance between properties can be hard to manage. If you have the opportunity to invest in a nearby location to your business that is ideal. This opens up many business opportunities, allows you more time in your businesses and to focus on putting your local community on the Quest map.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering Quest as a new business opportunity?

We are forever grateful to Quest for our journey over the last 16 years, Quest has provided opportunities and support over the duration. We truly feel the next five years is going to be a golden period for our group. It's been a tough couple of years for our industry and many other industries. However with business returning in the near future and the country starting to open up over the next six months it is a great time to invest in Quest. So our advice? Now is a great time to take the leap. Work with Quest Corporate Office in finding the right business opportunity for you. Quest will put you in touch with franchisees who are happy to share knowledge and can provide you with great insight into what it means to be a Quest business owner. 

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Along the journey, you are not alone. There is a dedicated and passionate team supporting each business owner to successfully operate the Quest Apartment Hotel businesses in line with the Quest Business Format Franchise Model.