Omaze, a well-known company for organizing raffles of multi-million pound homes, has faced challenges in selecting properties due to various unique characteristics. Since its launch in the UK five years ago, Omaze’s large-scale raffles have garnered significant attention. Originally established in the United States in 2012 by Matt Pohlson and Ryan Cummins, Omaze commits to raffling off 12 mansions annually.
The company has already gifted homes in various regions such as Cornwall, Cheshire, Sussex, and the Cotswolds, raising over £100 million for charity through the raffles. According to The Daily Telegraph, Omaze’s team of property lawyers meticulously reviews more than 1,000 properties before selecting one for the giveaway. Numerous homes are swiftly rejected due to peculiar local regulations.
Matt, one of the founders who hails from Laguna Niguel, California, conceived the idea for Omaze during a fundraising event with Ryan, where they observed affluent individuals bidding for exclusive experiences. Transitioning from celebrity-centric prizes like meetings with renowned figures, the duo recognized the appeal of offering luxury homes as prizes.
Following Ryan’s departure from the company in 2018, Matt identified the potential decline in interest in celebrity events and redirected focus towards the housing market, particularly in Britain. Emphasizing the universal desire for better living spaces, Matt views Omaze as a purpose-driven enterprise that benefits both winners and charitable causes.
Despite being a profit-oriented entity, Omaze directs contributions to organizations like the British Heart Foundation and local food banks. Raffle winners not only receive a fully furnished property but also £250,000 in cash and coverage of all legal expenses. Omaze ensures thorough property evaluations, including legal checks and surveys, prior to acquisition to prevent issues like the case of Vicky Curtis-Cresswell, who faced challenges with her Norfolk property’s construction.
Addressing common property purchase hurdles in the UK, Matt affirms the team’s competence in managing such issues. Omaze’s commitment to delivering high-quality homes and supporting charitable initiatives underscores its mission as a socially responsible company.
