“I think our biggest aha moment was when we were trying to figure out the right profile of candidates to join HOMEstretch. For us, it ultimately boiled down to the people themselves. Part of what we wanted to do at the outset was create a really dynamic culture where everybody believed in our mission of becoming the national leader in the home preparation space, and we got people in the door who truly wanted to create big businesses. I think that's what’s unique about HOMEstretch. It's a really good opportunity for somebody who wants to be an entrepreneur with the guardrails and the processes that we provide. Our business is a little bit different from some other opportunities. We're not asking our franchisees to spend a ton of money on marketing to kind of sit back and wait for the leads to come in. Our franchisees are going out to market, developing true relationships with real estate agents and referral sources, and building a moat around this business that will carry over for years. So getting the right people who wanted to roll up their sleeves and build a business that way and grow an empire was probably the biggest lesson we learned early. This really helped us hone in our candidate profile to get those types of people through the door.”

Franchising is a two-way street—not only do candidates choose a business, but franchisors also seek the right franchisees. This franchise isn’t for passive owners; it’s for driven entrepreneurs who align with its mission, actively build relationships, and take charge of growth. The vetting process ensures that franchisees fit the culture and long-term vision, not just the business model. We guide our clients to find opportunities that not only meet their income and lifestyle goals but also align with their values and work style.

We cover many current and relevant topics. A few include:

◈ An example of a successful partnership and why it works

◈ Focusing on solutions rather than the problems

◈ The difference in having a big marketing spend vs. community involvement to develop business

“It is so long. But it was sure worth it. It's similar to taking a personality test where you’re trying to figure out what will work. Initially, I thought I would have to do something in insurance. That's what I have a background in. And then you said something to the effect that my new business may not be something I’ve done before. So, I thought ‘ok go big or go home! Let's see what the test questions and assessments will come up with.’”

Many clients assume they should stay in their current industry when exploring business ownership, but that’s a common misconception. That’s why we use tools like our Entrepreneur Profile and take the time to build a business model with you. We dive deep into your goals, strengths, lifestyle preferences, and what you truly enjoy. Our matchmaking process is thorough—it takes time and commitment because investing in a business isn’t a decision to rush. The goal is to reach a clear yes or no. If it’s a no, it’s an informed decision. If it’s a yes, you can move forward with confidence, knowing you’ve done your due diligence.

We cover many current and relevant topics. A few include:

◈ The importance of being flexible when you’re coming out of corporate America and starting your own business

◈ How to properly plan for a transition from being an employee to becoming an entrepreneur

◈ Transferrable skill sets can lead to new and exciting opportunities

“Talk to other business owners in your area to learn about permitting and their experiences. Understand your local fire code requirements and ADA regulations, as these vary by state. If you're in a hurricane-prone area like I am, you may need extra insurance coverage. I also planned for at least six extra months of operating capital. Get involved in local groups like the Rotary Club or Chamber of Commerce to network with other business owners. Another valuable resource is the Small Business Development Center, which provides market research. They helped me understand the competition in areas like painting, blinds, and automotive services in Galveston. They have access to detailed sales data, giving great insight into the local market.”

Starting a new business, even with a franchise, comes with challenges. The more groundwork you lay, the better prepared you’ll be for success. While franchisors and fellow franchisees offer valuable support, it’s also essential to get involved in your local community.

Erich’s tips highlight the power of thorough research and community engagement. By networking with local business owners, understanding regulatory requirements, and utilizing resources like the Small Business Development Center, future entrepreneurs can gain market insights, reduce risk, and plan for success. These strategies emphasize a proactive, well-rounded approach to business ownership. Building a strong foundation through knowledge and networking is much more than just a good idea.

We cover many current and relevant topics. A few include:

◈ Mitigating risk by keeping your job IF you have flexibility

◈ Why exceptional training trumps the need for industry experience

◈ The importance of networking and community involvement when you’re opening a new business