BBB Recognizes Franchisee

HVA systems and standards credited By Gregg Stengel Charles and Monya Rutland, PRG Realty, build credibility for HomeVestors with the BBB. Charles and Monya Rutland of PRG Realty recently opened their new office in Macon, GA, amidst community fan fare and media attention. For the Rutlands, the attention keeps coming as they were awarded the Torch Award for Business Ethics from the Macon chapter of the Better Business Bureau. "It’s quite an honor for us," says Charles. "I believe the number one feather in our cap for us receiving this award was our extensive and well-thought-out Systems and Standards, which outlines how we should operate, and that reflects our concern for consumers of our product/service." According to the Rutlands and the BBB, not all local chapters recognize this award. "I believe this is a good award because it reflects how we operate, but I know some of our franchisees are not so lucky, even with BBB membership. I understand that in Metro D.C. and in Cincinnati, the local BBB refused to accept an application for membership from the franchisee because of the poor standing and reputation of the industry, or at least the industry perception," Charles said. "I know HomeVestors is aware of this, so any recognition to the contrary helps distance us from the rest of the industry. Also, the idea of a national HVA BBB membership/affiliation is something I will bring up at the next FAC meeting. We are an ethical operator, and this award and affiliation is a great way to separate us from others," he said. …Gregg Stengel is the marketing publications manager for HVA. He may be reached at 972-761-0046, ext. 189.