Have you ever thought of pursuing a cleaning franchise opportunity? Owning a franchise can be an exceptionally rewarding experience — and cleaning franchises stand out as having unique perks.
Here, we’ll talk about why you might want to buy a cleaning franchise, whether it’s right for you, answer frequently asked questions and explain how to start running a franchise.
Why buy a cleaning franchise?
Some industries are resistant to market conditions because of their necessity. Professional cleaning services are one of them.
Cleaning franchises are vital for many different types of people and businesses, such as:
- Any kind of organization that needs a cleaning business to pass regular inspections.
- Tenants who rent a property and undergo cleanliness evaluations.
- Homeowners who want a professional touch on a scheduled basis.
There are a variety of different types of cleaning franchises. Which you choose naturally determines who your clientele will be. For example, a commercial cleaning service will be very different from a residential one. Consider what you want to get out of your cleaning franchise before deciding.
Why a cleaning franchise?
Cleaning franchises have many perks over starting your own business, namely:
An established reputation
When you start your own cleaning business, you need to establish a brand reputation from scratch, which can be exceedingly difficult in today’s highly competitive market environment. If you purchase a franchise, you already have a solid reputation to work from.
Lower start-up costs
Cleaning equipment can be expensive — especially if you invest in supplies meant for industrial purposes. With a franchise, the franchisor is likely to help you get started with everything you need.
Less need for marketing creativity
Cleaning franchises are more or less marketed in a universal fashion. They also already have their own websites and preferred messaging. This can save you time, effort and money so you can focus on running your franchise.
A preexisting customer base
People who have been using your cleaning franchise’s services know what to expect at any given branch. Those who are the franchisor's customers are also essentially your customers as soon as you found your franchise location.
Consider the pros and cons of buying a cleaning franchise and decide if it’s right for you before purchasing.
Frequently asked questions about buying a cleaning franchise
Here are some frequently asked questions about cleaning franchises.
Is owning a cleaning franchise a lot of work?
Owning a cleaning franchise is just as much work as owning a business. While there is typically substantially less risk involved in owning a cleaning franchise compared to owning your own business, you’re still responsible for how your cleaning franchise performs.
Should I pursue a residential or commercial cleaning franchise?
This depends on what you want to get out of owning a franchise. A commercial cleaning franchise will require different equipment and training, and it could have varying franchise fees than other residential cleaning franchises. There are many other differences, so research these before you make a decision.
Do cleaning franchises make a lot of money?
If your location does especially well and stands out from other branches, then you can expect to make a potentially sizable profit off of buying a cleaning franchise.
Does the cleaning franchisor offer financing to help you get started?
Generally, you’re responsible for your own startup costs plus the initial franchise fee. You’ll also be expected to contribute a percentage of your profits to the master franchise. However, you can expect help from the franchisor if you encounter any issues. Be aware, though, that how much help you get can vary tremendously from franchise to franchise.
How to get started with a cleaning franchise
You’ll want to lay out some groundwork before you pursue a franchise opportunity.
- First, decide if franchising is right for you instead of owning a small business.
- Decide what type of franchise you’re interested in. A carpet cleaning franchise is one example, but there are many other types in the cleaning industry.
- Browse BusinessesForSale.com and narrow down your search. There’s a lot to consider when choosing a cleaning franchise; for example, price. The terms in the franchise agreement may also vary.
- Make a short list of franchise options. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, reach out to each cleaning service and start asking questions. You want to find out as much as you can to avoid any surprises.
- Consider hiring a franchise lawyer. They can help you navigate the buying process and, just as importantly, understand what’s in a franchise agreement. You may also want an accountant or other advisor.
- Apply to be a franchisee like you would a job position. Showing interest in being a franchise owner isn’t enough; you’ll need to stand out from other applicants and demonstrate to the franchisor that you’re the right person for the job. If you’re interviewed, highlight past experiences with running a similar small business or franchise or anything else you think can differentiate yourself.
- Carefully negotiate the franchise agreement. The franchise agreement lays out all the terms and conditions of the relationship between the franchisee and the franchisor. Make sure you understand every provision in the contract and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Finance your operation. You’ll be responsible for finding financing for the operation starting with the franchise fee. You don’t necessarily need to rely on a bank loan; the franchisor might have other sound ideas.
Find your cleaning franchise on BusinessesForSale.com
As long as you’re fully aware of what purchasing and owning a cleaning franchise entails, you can take advantage of the many perks this type of business offers. In addition to being potentially lucrative, you might also find the experience fun.
BusinessesForSale.com is a prime place to list and buy a cleaning franchise, and we have a multitude of guides to help get you started. Explore cleaning franchises we have to offer today.