Caring Transitions

After more than 25 years working in operations, marketing, and diversity and inclusion at some of the country’s most trusted companies — including State Farm, USAA and Charles Schwab —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-wilkinson-8480741b/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=bobby-wilkinson-caring-transitions-franchisee-feature-2729838" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bobby Wilkinson</a> knew his next chapter needed to be different. He wanted more than just another job; he wanted purpose, ownership and the chance to serve others in a more personal way. That search led him to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=bobby-wilkinson-caring-transitions-franchisee-feature-2729838" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Caring Transitions</a>. Launching his business in San Antonio Central on July 14, Wilkinson is combining his professional background and core value of empathy to help families navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions.&nbsp;1851 spoke with Wilkinson to learn more about his background, his path to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> and his plans for the future.&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Bobby Wilkinson: I spent over 25 years in corporate America in all kinds of roles — operations, marketing, diversity and inclusion — with brands like State Farm, USAA, TIAA and Charles Schwab. These companies are all focused on service — how to take care of your clients and customers in the best way possible.After the last election, my role was eliminated, and I thought, “Maybe this next chapter of life is an opportunity to work for myself.” That’s what really kicked off this whole process — the desire to finally be in control of my future.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Wilkinson: I considered all kinds of business ideas, but one thing that drew me to franchising — especially a more established franchise — was the backend support. There’s an operating model that’s been refined over time, and success stories you can learn from.That’s the advantage: there’s a blueprint for success that someone new, like me, can come in and follow. My experience with State Farm actually informed that idea — that structure and support can really make all the difference.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Wilkinson: I initially thought about getting into health care, but when I found Caring Transitions, I was drawn to how it sits adjacent to that space — it’s still about care, just in a different form. The whole idea of empathy — of helping people — really aligned with my values.I talked to a lot of franchise owners and heard their stories — how this brand allowed them to own their future, make an impact and build something meaningful. That resonated with me. One owner in San Antonio invited me to see his team in action. Watching how passionate they were, how much they cared for their customers, how they even helped people recoup money through auctions or by clearing homes to be sold — it just clicked.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Wilkinson: Right now, I want to learn as much as I can. My goal is to build a great team, deliver a strong service and really understand the territory. If we do those things well — if we focus on building relationships and providing real value — I believe the business will grow naturally from there.1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Wilkinson: One of my first calls came from a local city council official. They had a constituent who needed help moving — someone who couldn’t afford it. I saw it as a great opportunity to help someone in the community and also learn the ropes.Three Caring Transitions owners in San Antonio teamed up and got the job done — packed, moved and unpacked. The appreciation from this gentleman reminded me why I chose this path. It felt good to do something meaningful right from the start.Something I learned during training is that success comes down to having a strong team that believes in the mission. If you find the right people who share the same values and care about the clients, everything else will fall into place. That’s been my focus these past few weeks — building that team.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Wilkinson: Really understand the financial investment. I thought I had a good handle on it, but once I started digging in and getting everything lined up, I realized it takes more than you think.Whatever number you have in mind, add 25%. That’s not a regret — I’m still glad I did this — but it’s the advice I would give anyone: go in with your eyes open and be prepared. If you do that, this can be something truly amazing.To learn more about franchising with Caring Transitions, visit<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">&nbsp;https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.<h3>ABOUT CARING TRANSITIONS:</h3>Caring Transitions provides older adults and their families with the most trusted, respected and comprehensive downsizing, right-sizing, estate sales and online auctions, and move management solutions in the industry. Founded in 2006, the brand is committed to helping people in a compassionate and caring manner during life's many transitions while providing a total and easy solution for clients in their time of need. Through their proprietary online sales platform, CTBIDS, Caring Transitions also prepares clients for the process of liquidating assets through their own online estate sales auction site. With more than 400 locations, Caring Transitions’ compassionate, experienced professionals minimize stress and relieve the burdens of life’s transitions. To learn more visit https://www.caringtransitions.com/

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Bobby Wilkinson | Caring Transitions Franchisee Feature

1851 Franchise

With a career rooted in service, Wilkinson brings his heart for people and operational expertise to Caring Transitions in San Antonio — and he’s just getting started.

After Decades in Corporate America, Bobby Wilkinson Finds a More Meaningful Way to Serve Through Caring Transitions

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For many entrepreneurs exploring franchise ownership, one of the biggest questions is simple: What does the day-to-day actually look like?At&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a>, the answer is anything but routine. It’s a blend of business ownership, team leadership and deeply meaningful client work, all wrapped into days that are fast-paced and constantly evolving.For franchise owners&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-dueck-4b7060151">Carrie</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-dueck-958467344">Alan Dueck</a>, no two days are exactly alike. “What originally led me to Caring Transitions was caring for my mom, who had dementia,” Carrie said. “It really opened up a world that I wasn’t aware of, which was senior care and everything you need to know and do when caring for an older loved one.”That experience shaped their perspective and ultimately their decision to become business owners.“When we started caring for her mom, we really saw the need that existed for families taking care of their older parents,” Alan said. “Seeing that need and seeing the opportunity to improve things was very exciting.”That combination of personal experience and professional skill set created a clear path forward.“Let’s do this through our own business so we can make a bigger impact,” Alan said. “It's been a great journey so far.” Through their experience, a clear picture emerges of what it takes and what it means to run a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> business.<h2>Starting the Day With Strategy and Purpose</h2>Before the first client meeting or job site visit, the day begins with planning.“The first hour of the day, even before meeting with anyone, is spent on planning and strategizing,” Alan said. “Because we are a married couple in business together, we also have these conversations throughout the day.”That early focus on priorities sets the tone for everything that follows. As business owners, the Duecks are constantly balancing immediate client needs with long-term growth.“We try to fit in big-picture goals anywhere we can,” Alan said. “But it’s not uncommon for urgent needs to come up that we need to take care of.”That balance between working in the business and on the business is a defining part of the Caring Transitions ownership experience.<h2>Building Relationships in the Community</h2>A large part of any Caring Transitions franchise owner’s day is dedicated to building connections.“Most recently, this morning, I met with a referral real estate agent to develop a connection,” Carrie said. “We are always increasing our referral partner connections and deepening those relationships because we want to build strong relationships.”These partnerships with real estate agents, senior living communities and other local professionals are often the foundation of a franchisee’s growth. They create a steady pipeline of families who need help navigating major life transitions.<h2>Managing Operations and Leading a Team</h2>From there, the day quickly shifts into operations. “I’m going to go check on my team, who is at the warehouse producing an auction, do some auction editing and make sure it is ready to go live,” Carrie said.Caring Transitions franchisees oversee a wide range of services, from&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">online estate auctions</a> to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-a-recession-resistant-franchise-opportunity-for-entrepreneurs-2730712">full-home cleanouts and relocations</a>. That means managing logistics, ensuring quality and keeping multiple moving pieces aligned.“After that, we will make sure that everything is in place to do the shipping from the last auction,” Carrie said.Behind the scenes, there is constant coordination, making sure teams are where they need to be, projects stay on track and clients receive a seamless experience. At its core, this is a leadership role. Franchise owners are not just completing tasks; they are building and guiding teams that deliver those services every day.<h2>Meeting With Families and Delivering Service</h2>While operations and strategy are critical,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-couples-are-choosing-to-own-a-caring-transitions-franchise-together-2731586">the heart of the business lies in client interactions</a>.“From there, I’ll go meet with a client today and do her rightsizing,” Carrie said. “Meaning we will walk through her current home and decide what she will do to her new home, which we will move her to on Friday.”These meetings are often deeply personal. Families are navigating major life transitions — downsizing, relocating or moving into senior communities — and they&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-caring-transitions-supports-adult-children-in-managing-their-parents-moves-2728833">rely on Caring Transitions to guide them through the process</a>.“After that, I have a consultation with another client who is 96 and decided that now is a good time to move to a senior community so she doesn’t have to cook and clean anymore,” Carrie said. “We’ll meet with her and her son and go from there.”For many franchisees, this is the most meaningful part of the day: helping families make decisions, reduce stress and move forward with confidence.<h2>More Than a Business</h2>At Caring Transitions, a “day in the life” is about more than tasks and schedules. It’s about impact.For franchise owners like the Duecks, each day represents an opportunity to serve families during some of the most important moments of their lives, while also building a business that can grow, scale and create lasting value.That combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-caring-transitions-franchise-stands-out-2727831">meaningful work paired with entrepreneurial opportunity</a> is what defines the Caring Transitions franchise model.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

Carrie and Alan Dueck’s workdays move from planning and referral-building to client visits, estate auctions and hands-on support for families.

A Day in the Life of a Caring Transitions Franchise Owner

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Launching a new business is never simple, but for many&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> franchisees, the early days are defined less by uncertainty and more by momentum. Across the system, new owners are finding ways to ramp up quickly, build strong teams and establish themselves in their communities by leaning into the brand’s systems, support and mission-driven work.For franchisees like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-mcelrath-31004319/">Jay McElrath</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristin-luebben-fishel-11938b16b">Cristin Fishel</a>, success didn’t come from waiting for business to arrive. It came from taking action early, learning fast and fully committing to building a real business from day one. Their experiences highlight five key lessons for new&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> owners looking to hit the ground running.<h2>1. Treat It Like a Real Business From Day One</h2>McElrath came into ownership with growth in mind. He treated the launch as the start of a larger operation and made early decisions around staffing, space and structure with that goal in view. “I felt that was going to be the most beneficial for me,” he said. “Really focusing this on being a business and not a side gig.”That mindset translated into immediate action. From hiring early to securing warehouse space, McElrath built infrastructure quickly to support demand. “I’ve been staying very busy since I started, which is a blessing,” he said. “I’ve had to expand my resources with hiring additional people. I also just recently leased out an office warehouse space and a flex warehouse.”Fishel echoed that same level of commitment, especially when transitioning from a completely different industry. “It’s hard in the beginning going from knowing every aspect of an industry my whole life to completely transitioning into a different industry,” she said. “Lots of lessons learned in the beginning.”For both owners, success started with fully stepping into the role of business owner from day one.<h2>2. Build the Right Team Early</h2>Fast starts require strong support, and both franchisees prioritized building capable teams right out of the gate.“One of my bigger assets was having a business development rep on my team,” McElrath said. “I hired one right out of the gate. She has over 20 years of marketing experience. That has helped tremendously.”He also built a well-rounded team across operations, including an operations manager, a team leader with estate sale experience and even caregivers he trusted from personal experience. “They are wonderful hard workers. That was the base of my team,” he said.Fishel took a similarly intentional approach, focusing on understanding her team members as individuals. “I really tried to focus on getting to know them as individuals so I could identify their strengths,” she said. “Being able to delegate opportunities has been great so they could flourish and expand.”The takeaway is clear: early investment in people creates the capacity to grow faster and serve clients better.<h2>3. Get Involved in Every Aspect of the Business</h2>While building a team is critical, both franchisees emphasized&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQGANkvTvCU">the importance of hands-on involvement</a>, especially early on.“I felt like the best thing that I could do to be successful was to just be involved straight out of the gate, doing every aspect of every job,” Fishel said. “Understanding every aspect, from the auction to the home cleanout and consolidation.”That deep involvement not only helped her learn the business quickly but also positioned her to lead effectively as she scaled. “I knew it would be important to understand what I am asking people to do and what the job really is,” she said.Looking back, she even sees more opportunity for hands-on learning. “Don’t be afraid to get out there and get your hands dirty and understand more about the service you are taking on and how it works,” she said.McElrath stayed close to the day-to-day work as the business got off the ground, including contracts and administrative tasks. That early involvement gave him a clearer view of where the operation needed support as demand increased.<h2>4. Prioritize Business Development and Community Connections</h2>A fast start also requires steady outreach. McElrath and Fishel both focused early on building referral sources, meeting local contacts and making sure people in the community knew what Caring Transitions offered.“On day one, I went around to open houses and went to every one that I could find and met every realtor that was there,” Fishel said. “Within seven to nine months, I started getting referrals from new clients who were referred to me by some of our first clients.”McElrath also emphasized the importance of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/scaling-with-purpose-why-caring-transitions-owners-keep-growing-2729104">visibility and consistent outreach</a>. “Spreading the word and talking with everybody that I can is important,” he said. “Social media has been a big help in flooding the market.”From digital marketing to in-person networking, both franchisees demonstrate that early momentum comes from proactively building awareness and trust in the community.<h2>5. Lean Into the System and the Franchise Network</h2>Finally, neither franchisee built their business alone. Both highlighted the importance of learning from others within the Caring Transitions system.“I’ve taken a lot of pages from a lot of other owners, putting bits and pieces of that together,” McElrath said. “Reaching out and talking to other owners was really beneficial to me.”Fishel also recognized the value of learning — both through the brand’s onboarding and through additional hands-on experience. “If I could start over again, I would spend even more time doing the work with some of the other local owners and building those relationships,” she said.Combined with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-the-first-90-days-look-like-as-a-new-caring-transitions-franchise-owner-2731944">Caring Transitions’ structured onboarding, coaching and tools</a>, this collaborative network helps new owners shorten the learning curve and avoid common pitfalls.<h2>Building Momentum With Purpose</h2>McElrath and Fishel took different paths, but both moved quickly once they launched. They hired early, stayed involved in the work, built local relationships and used the support available through the Caring Transitions system.The result is not just early momentum, but meaningful impact. For many Caring Transitions franchisees, success is defined by&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-caring-transitions-culture-stands-out-for-franchisees-2727941">the ability to help families navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions with compassion and care</a>. And for those willing to take action early, the path to hitting the ground running is already mapped out.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

To hit the ground running, new Caring Transitions franchisees committed fully, built infrastructure early, fostered strong teams and used the franchise's support system.

5 Lessons from Caring Transitions Franchisees Who Hit the Ground Running

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For many aspiring franchise owners, the first few months after signing an agreement can feel like the biggest unknown. What happens between becoming a franchisee and launching a fully operational business?&nbsp;At&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a>, the onboarding process is designed to remove that uncertainty, guiding new owners through a structured ramp-up period that blends training, operational preparation and early client acquisition.<h2>Days 1-30: Training, Strategic Start and Building the Foundation</h2>The first month focuses heavily on training and preparation. New franchisees complete onboarding programs designed to teach the&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> service model, including downsizing services, relocation support, estate sales and online auctions through the brand’s&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">proprietary CTBids platform</a>.This period also introduces franchisees to the brand’s Strategic Start framework — a structured approach to launching a new location. Strategic Start helps owners establish the operational and marketing foundation they need before serving their first clients. That includes everything from understanding pricing and job workflows to learning how to market services locally. For franchisees like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/petelankarge">Pete Lankarge</a> in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitions.com/locations/newport-ri">Newport, Rhode Island</a>, the structured support system made it possible to hit the ground running.“What was great from the perspective of the Caring Transitions corporate team was that they provided so much guidance to be properly launched and let us hit the ground running,” Lankarge said.Equally important during this phase is building the initial team and tools required to operate efficiently. Caring Transitions provides franchisees with resources that simplify hiring and workforce management.For Lankarge, one of those tools helped him quickly assemble a team capable of handling early jobs. “For example, we have a partnership with a company called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jazzhr.com/">JazzHR</a>,” he said. “That is how most of our employees have come in. That is one example of how we found staff members, which is how we were able to pull off the jobs that we had.”With operational systems in place and hiring underway, franchisees spend the latter part of the first month preparing for their initial marketing efforts.<h2>Days 30-60: Building Community Connections and Generating Leads</h2>Once the operational foundation is in place, the focus shifts to generating awareness in the local market. Caring Transitions businesses are deeply rooted in their communities, so relationship-building is critical to early growth.New franchisees begin connecting with local organizations, senior living communities, real estate professionals and other referral partners who often encounter families navigating downsizing or relocation decisions.“I went out and quickly joined the Newport Chamber of Commerce,” Lankarge said. “A couple of our jobs have come from that group in particular. The networking and generating word-of-mouth buzz was a big piece of that. Just helping get the word out.”Corporate support also helps franchisees amplify those efforts through established partnerships and brand credibility. “That is a big benefit of the franchise model,” Lankarge said. “You are not by yourself. It makes it much easier as a start-up entrepreneur.”For franchisees operating in markets where Caring Transitions already has a presence, referral pipelines may develop even more quickly.<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-lee-davis-540004155/">Jamie Davis</a>, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsofgilbertaz.com/">Caring Transitions of South Gilbert, Arizona</a>, quickly found that community relationships played a major role in her early growth.“We have a lot of retirees here, and those communities are very ingrained in what we do,” Davis said. “I have gotten a lot of my work from referrals - I have a few clients who have recommended me to their neighbors or their friends. It’s nice that my clients are so happy that they feel comfortable sharing.”<h2>Days 60-90: Landing First Clients and Learning in the Field</h2>By the third month, many franchisees are actively serving their first clients. Those early projects often become the most valuable learning experiences as owners put their training into practice and refine their operational systems.For Lankarge, the momentum started quickly after his initial team orientation. “We were fortunate to land a very large client two weeks after training,” he said. “Immediately, we got to have the whole team dive in.”The project became an immersive training opportunity for his team. “From that one client, we had a massive home cleanout and ran three separate estate sales from it,” he said. “It launched us to train the team in the field, essentially.”Those early jobs also demonstrate&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/10-reasons-why-caring-transitions-stands-out-among-other-franchises-2727831">the scale and variety of work Caring Transitions franchisees handle</a>. “The project itself was very meaningful - it was a Navy veteran who passed away,” Lankarge said. “They had a lifetime of collecting and a lot of really cool antiques, designer clothing, jewelry and artwork.”For many new owners, the first few months reveal how quickly the business can grow once systems and referrals are in place. “Once we got that big client, I saw why we needed staff assistance,” Lankarge said. “I was able to be the team lead on the project in the field, but the vision down the road is to have others in place who can run the projects.”<h2>Building Systems for Long-Term Growth</h2>As operations ramp up, franchisees begin refining their approach to staffing, marketing and project management. Davis, who opened her Caring Transitions business in July 2025, quickly expanded her team to support growing demand.“I started out with two employees and I now have seven employees,” she said. “I have a business development rep that is connecting with the community, and I also have a social media manager that I brought in part-time. I am also hiring three more people soon.”For Davis, the ability to adapt has been one of the biggest advantages of the franchise model. “A lot of franchises are very cookie-cutter,” she said. “What I like about Caring Transitions is that they have given me tools but really allowed me to adapt them to my strengths and how I want to use the tools.”<h2>A Structured Start With Purpose</h2>While every franchisee’s first 90 days will look slightly different, the overall roadmap remains consistent: training, foundation-building, networking and early client work. With each step,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/the-benefits-of-owning-a-caring-transitions-franchise-why-entrepreneurs-are-choosing-the-senior-services-industry-2731583">Caring Transitions provides the support systems</a> necessary to help new owners succeed - from operational guidance and hiring tools to marketing resources and coaching.“It’s been amazing - I’ve learned a lot,” Davis said. “It’s hard work at times, but it’s been so rewarding on so many levels that I’m really happy I made this jump.”By the end of the first three months, new franchisees typically have the fundamentals in place: a trained team, an emerging referral network and real experience helping families through some of life’s most emotional transitions. From there, the focus shifts from launching the business to scaling it by continuing to build relationships, serve clients and grow a purpose-driven operation within the community.For entrepreneurs considering franchise ownership, the first 90 days with Caring Transitions demonstrate something important: while the journey requires dedication and hard work, franchisees are never navigating it alone.For more information about franchising with Caring Transitions, visit<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/">&nbsp;https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/</a>.

From training and Strategic Start to landing first clients and building community partnerships, the first three months set the foundation for a purpose-driven business.

What the First 90 Days Look Like as a New Caring Transitions Franchise Owner

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Celebrating Women’s History Month: The Women of Caring Transitions Leading With Purpose

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For prospective owners exploring&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a>, a franchise specializing in senior relocation, downsizing and estate sales, one of the most important questions is also one of the most practical: Where do the clients come from?The answer, according to longtime franchisees&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-doerr-a2266a8">Carolyn Doerr</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarederfle">Jared Erfle</a>, is not a single channel but a system that blends relationships, digital marketing, brand tools and consistent community presence into a reliable engine for growth.<h2>Building a Referral Engine Through Relationships</h2>For&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> franchisees,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-makes-caring-transitions-the-premier-franchise-choice-for-senior-move-management-2730948">trust is the starting point for growth</a>. Much of that trust is built through relationships with senior living communities and local professionals who regularly work with families preparing for a major transition.Erfle points to these partnerships as the foundation of his growth, explaining how they evolve over time into consistent referral pipelines.“My wife, Victoria, one of the main things she does is marketing to senior living communities,” he said. “That is really the key — the relationships we’ve built with those communities through the years. For example, a new community is opening this summer with 400 units, so building that relationship will be very important. We’ve met sales reps who may move to other communities, but they stay with us because we deliver value: we solve a problem. Oftentimes, downsizing is the roadblock for the residents. They can’t imagine leaving the home that they’ve lived in for 40 years. We take away that roadblock and provide that solution to the senior living communities.”For Doerr, who has been in the business for more than a decade,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-the-first-90-days-look-like-as-a-new-caring-transitions-franchise-owner-2731944">that same approach starts as early as possible, even before officially launching.</a>“The most important part, when you start out, is to get to all the senior communities in your territory and outside your territory if they are unowned by someone else,” she said. “Go on all of those tours and provide as much info as possible to your community so they can refer you to others. They want to know that there is something in it for them as well.”That mindset extends beyond senior living communities into a broader ecosystem of referral partners. “It's also important to connect with real estate agents,” Doerr said. “Once they use our service, we’ve found that it is a good way to get extra business. Funeral homes, financial firms and elder care attorneys have also been helpful. Even churches have been a great resource for us.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-couples-are-choosing-to-own-a-caring-transitions-franchise-together-2731586">Franchisees who actively engage in their communities</a> through networking, partnerships and visibility tend to build trust faster and generate more referrals. And that trust is reinforced by the brand itself.“The Caring Transitions brand gives us a lot of credibility and that is really the key,” Erfle said.<h2>CTBids® as a Built-In Lead Generator</h2>A major differentiator in how Caring Transitions franchisees generate demand is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">CTBids</a>, the brand’s proprietary online auction platform. Unlike traditional marketing tools, CTBids actively brings new customers into the ecosystem, particularly through estate sales.“Probably about 75% of our business is through CTBids or a move with CTBids,” Doerr said. “That is really what gets us the attention and makes us different as a business.”Erfle echoes that impact, particularly in how CTBids integrates with digital outreach efforts. “A lot of our energy on social media with digital marketing goes to CTBids as well,” he said. “We have a lot of customers that come to us through the estate sales angle.”<h2>Digital Marketing Expands Reach</h2>While relationships and CTBids create a strong base, digital marketing ensures franchisees are visible when families begin searching for solutions.For Erfle, search visibility has become one of the most important drivers of inbound leads. “The other significant lead source is Google and pure SEO,” he said. “The home office has put in a lot of work to position our websites. Interestingly, over the last six months, another big lead source has been ChatGPT. We’ve had four or five clients come in because they found us through AI.”That visibility is reinforced by corporate-led marketing systems designed to capture and nurture leads over time. “At the corporate office, they have a safety net for nurturing leads. They have those email campaigns going out to support us. We do some email follow-up, but the team really has that on lock,” Erfle said.Doerr has seen similar results from those systems. “We get a lot of leads through the website and through corporate,” she said. “We also get a lot of leads through the email blast.”<h2>A System That Scales With the Owner</h2>What ties all of these elements together is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-a-recession-resistant-franchise-opportunity-for-entrepreneurs-2730712">the structure behind them</a>. Franchisees are supported by a system that includes coaching, shared best practices and ongoing marketing support.Doerr highlights how that support evolves over time. “Whenever questions arise, you have a coach who can answer any question for you,” she said. “They are pretty experienced in doing the same thing. There are always new ideas and new best practices coming in.”For prospective franchisees, the takeaway is clear: Caring Transitions provides a model where lead generation is not left to chance.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

The brand offers a growth engine built on strategic relationships, referral networks, a proprietary CTBids platform, robust digital marketing and corporate support/coaching.

How Caring Transitions Franchisees Get Clients: Sales and Lead Generation Explained

how-caring-transitions-franchisees-get-clients-sales-and-lead-generation-explained

For prospective owners exploring&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a>, a franchise specializing in senior relocation, downsizing and estate sales, one of the most important questions is also one of the most practical: Where do the clients come from?The answer, according to longtime franchisees&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-doerr-a2266a8">Carolyn Doerr</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarederfle">Jared Erfle</a>, is not a single channel but a system that blends relationships, digital marketing, brand tools and consistent community presence into a reliable engine for growth.<h2>Building a Referral Engine Through Relationships</h2> For&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> franchisees,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-makes-caring-transitions-the-premier-franchise-choice-for-senior-move-management-2730948">trust is the starting point for growth</a>. Much of that trust is built through relationships with senior living communities and local professionals who regularly work with families preparing for a major transition.Erfle points to these partnerships as the foundation of his growth, explaining how they evolve over time into consistent referral pipelines.“My wife, Victoria, one of the main things she does is marketing to senior living communities,” he said. “That is really the key — the relationships we’ve built with those communities through the years. For example, a new community is opening this summer with 400 units, so building that relationship will be very important. We’ve met sales reps who may move to other communities, but they stay with us because we deliver value: we solve a problem. Oftentimes, downsizing is the roadblock for the residents. They can’t imagine leaving the home that they’ve lived in for 40 years. We take away that roadblock and provide that solution to the senior living communities.”For Doerr, who has been in the business for more than a decade,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-the-first-90-days-look-like-as-a-new-caring-transitions-franchise-owner-2731944">that same approach starts as early as possible, even before officially launching.</a>“The most important part, when you start out, is to get to all the senior communities in your territory and outside your territory if they are unowned by someone else,” she said. “Go on all of those tours and provide as much info as possible to your community so they can refer you to others. They want to know that there is something in it for them as well.”That mindset extends beyond senior living communities into a broader ecosystem of referral partners. “It's also important to connect with real estate agents,” Doerr said. “Once they use our service, we’ve found that it is a good way to get extra business. Funeral homes, financial firms and elder care attorneys have also been helpful. Even churches have been a great resource for us.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-couples-are-choosing-to-own-a-caring-transitions-franchise-together-2731586">Franchisees who actively engage in their communities</a> through networking, partnerships and visibility tend to build trust faster and generate more referrals. And that trust is reinforced by the brand itself.“The Caring Transitions brand gives us a lot of credibility and that is really the key,” Erfle said.<h2>CTBids® as a Built-In Lead Generator</h2> A major differentiator in how Caring Transitions franchisees generate demand is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">CTBids</a>, the brand’s proprietary online auction platform. Unlike traditional marketing tools, CTBids actively brings new customers into the ecosystem, particularly through estate sales.“Probably about 75% of our business is through CTBids or a move with CTBids,” Doerr said. “That is really what gets us the attention and makes us different as a business.”Erfle echoes that impact, particularly in how CTBids integrates with digital outreach efforts. “A lot of our energy on social media with digital marketing goes to CTBids as well,” he said. “We have a lot of customers that come to us through the estate sales angle.”<h2>Digital Marketing Expands Reach</h2> While relationships and CTBids create a strong base, digital marketing ensures franchisees are visible when families begin searching for solutions.For Erfle, search visibility has become one of the most important drivers of inbound leads. “The other significant lead source is Google and pure SEO,” he said. “The home office has put in a lot of work to position our websites. Interestingly, over the last six months, another big lead source has been ChatGPT. We’ve had four or five clients come in because they found us through AI.”That visibility is reinforced by corporate-led marketing systems designed to capture and nurture leads over time. “At the corporate office, they have a safety net for nurturing leads. They have those email campaigns going out to support us. We do some email follow-up, but the team really has that on lock,” Erfle said.Doerr has seen similar results from those systems. “We get a lot of leads through the website and through corporate,” she said. “We also get a lot of leads through the email blast.”<h2>A System That Scales With the Owner</h2> What ties all of these elements together is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-a-recession-resistant-franchise-opportunity-for-entrepreneurs-2730712">the structure behind them</a>. Franchisees are supported by a system that includes coaching, shared best practices and ongoing marketing support.Doerr highlights how that support evolves over time. “Whenever questions arise, you have a coach who can answer any question for you,” she said. “They are pretty experienced in doing the same thing. There are always new ideas and new best practices coming in.”For prospective franchisees, the takeaway is clear: Caring Transitions provides a model where lead generation is not left to chance.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

Caring Transitions Employee with Customer

caring-transitions-lead-generation

April is National Stress Awareness Month, a timely reminder that while entrepreneurship offers independence and opportunity, it also comes with real pressures. From operational uncertainty to emotional strain and long hours, many small-business owners find themselves overwhelmed. At&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a>, the franchise model is intentionally designed to remove those stressors, replacing them with structure, support and a deeply connected community.Rather than leaving owners to figure things out alone,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> has built a system that addresses the root causes of entrepreneurial stress: isolation, lack of clarity and operational bottlenecks. The result is a business model that allows franchisees to focus not just on growth, but on sustainability and purpose.<h2>A Structured Start That Eliminates Uncertainty</h2>One of the most stressful phases of any new business is the beginning, when everything feels unknown. Caring Transitions removes that uncertainty through a highly structured onboarding process that guides franchisees from day one.New owners are introduced to the brand’s Strategic Start framework, which outlines exactly how to build and launch their business. From learning service offerings like downsizing, relocation and estate sales to understanding pricing, workflows and marketing strategies, franchisees are given a clear roadmap from the start.“There is an understanding that Caring Transitions offers a tremendous amount of support and training for new owners,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanhayes">Nan Hayes</a>, Director of Training and Franchise Business Coaching. “We have onboarding coaches, regional coaches, classroom training, field training and specialized business development coaching.”This level of structure helps franchisees replace guesswork with confidence, allowing them to focus on execution rather than worrying about what comes next.<h2>Ongoing Coaching That Reduces Isolation</h2>For many entrepreneurs, stress doesn’t come from the work itself; it comes from feeling alone in making decisions. Caring Transitions addresses that challenge through&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/the-steps-to-owning-a-caring-transitions-franchise-2727519">a layered coaching system</a> that supports owners well beyond their first year.“As franchisees grow, they have a permanent regional coach who is available anytime they need guidance,” Hayes said. “We also provide specialized coaching in areas like business development and operations, along with extensive resources within our CRM platform.”Caring Transitions has also cultivated a collaborative network where franchisees actively support one another. From peer mentorship opportunities to ongoing communication across the system, owners benefit from shared knowledge and real-world insights from others who have been in their shoes.<h2>Technology and Tools That Remove Bottlenecks</h2>The friction of messy operations is often what keeps business owners up at night. Caring Transitions helps quiet that noise by giving franchisees a toolkit of proven systems that take the guesswork out of daily workflows and keep things running smoothly.From hiring platforms that help owners quickly build a team to the brand’s&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">proprietary CTBids online auction platform</a>, which connects franchisees to a large built-in audience, the system is designed to reduce friction at every stage of the business.“We have a huge amount of resources available within our systems,” Hayes said, emphasizing how access to tools and technology helps owners operate more efficiently and avoid common startup challenges.By eliminating the need to build systems from scratch, franchisees can focus on delivering services and building relationships rather than troubleshooting operational gaps.<h2>Purpose-Driven Work That Reframes Stress</h2>While operational support is critical, Caring Transitions also addresses a different kind of stress: emotional burnout. The brand’s focus on helping seniors and their families through major life transitions brings&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/10-reasons-why-caring-transitions-stands-out-among-other-franchises-2727831">a level of meaning to the work</a> that many traditional businesses lack.“For anyone who thinks senior relocation is just a business opportunity, it’s important to understand that this work requires compassion and understanding,” Hayes said. “You’re working with people who are going through major life transitions. It’s hard work, but it’s incredibly meaningful.”That sense of purpose often changes how franchisees experience stress. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the workload, many owners feel motivated by the impact they’re making in their communities.“It’s much more than a business,” Hayes said. “This is truly a calling to work with seniors.”<h2>Redefining What Entrepreneurship Can Feel Like</h2>During National Stress Awareness Month, it’s worth reconsidering what business ownership should feel like. At Caring Transitions, franchisees aren’t left to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship alone. Instead, they are equipped with training, tools, coaching and community, all designed to reduce stress and create a more sustainable path to success.For entrepreneurs seeking meaningful work with the backing of a proven system, Caring Transitions offers something different: a business model where support isn’t an afterthought — it’s the foundation.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

How Caring Transitions is helping franchise owners build sustainable, purpose-driven businesses without burnout during National Stress Awareness Month.

Can Franchise Ownership Be Less Stressful? How Caring Transitions Supports Owners With Systems, Coaching and Purpose

can-franchise-ownership-be-less-stressful-how-caring-transitions-supports-owners-with-systems-coaching-and-purpose

Tens of trillions of dollars are set to change hands as baby boomers transfer their wealth to younger generations. However, much of this wealth isn’t in a brokerage account. It's stored in attics, garages, and the backs of closets.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> is a leading nationwide franchise in this evolving field, with owners across the country who work with families to sort belongings, coordinate estate sales and help prepare homes for their next chapter.<h2>When a House Becomes an Archive of a Life</h2>A family home can hold generations of furniture, years of packed closets, old photo albums, kitchenware, tools and the small keepsakes people save without thinking much about them. When a parent downsizes, dies or moves into senior living, someone has to decide what stays, what goes and what still carries value.Anyone who has helped a parent move or settle an estate understands how quickly a house can feel overwhelming.What used to feel like a normal family home can quickly become a room-by-room project. There is the dining room set from years of holidays, the garage full of tools and half-labeled boxes, and the closets packed with clothes, decorations and household items kept “just in case.”Adult children often arrive expecting a straightforward process. Instead, they discover thousands of items that must be sorted, evaluated, donated, sold or distributed among family members.Many families face these situations while balancing full-time careers, raising children or living hundreds, even thousands, of miles away. Travel back and forth becomes expensive and exhausting. Deadlines from real estate agents or senior living facilities create pressure to clear the home quickly.Sorting through a parent’s belongings can bring years of family history back at once. A box of photos, a set of dishes or an old tool collection may not have much practical use, but it can still be hard to let go.That is where the process can get complicated. Families have to decide what has real value, what should be sold and what belongs with which person. Siblings do not always see those choices the same way. One person may be attached to an item, another may see it as clutter and someone else may just want the house cleared.For many families, the logistics become as overwhelming as the emotions.<h2>The Emerging “Boomer Transition Economy”</h2>As millions of households begin navigating these transitions, a new category of services has quietly emerged to help families manage the physical side of aging and inheritance.This growing sector — sometimes described as the Boomer Transition Economy — focuses on the real-world logistics that accompany life transitions later in life.These services can include coordinating a move to senior living, downsizing a home, organizing and cataloging belongings, managing estate sales, liquidating household goods and preparing properties for sale.For families who live out of state or lack the time and expertise to handle these tasks alone, professional guidance can make an enormous difference.&nbsp;That is where&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> comes in.The 400-plus unit franchise offers part project management, part real estate prep and part family support. Families may need help deciding what should stay with relatives, what can be sold and what can be donated. In some homes, the priority is preserving heirlooms. In others, it is simply making the next step feel manageable. Either way, the work is about helping families move forward without losing sight of the life built inside the home.<h2>A Demographic Shift That Is Just Beginning</h2>The demand for these services is only expected to grow.<a href="https://www.transamericainstitute.org/research/publications/details/10000-baby-boomers-turn-65-every-day-infographic">Roughly 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day</a>, a pace that will continue for years as the baby boomer generation ages. Millions of households will eventually face decisions about downsizing, relocating or managing an estate.Many older adults are downsizing before they have to, moving into smaller homes or retirement communities while they can still make those choices themselves. Others face the same transition with little warning after a health change or the death of a spouse.Either way, the physical side of the wealth transfer becomes unavoidable.Even families with clear estate plans and well-structured financial portfolios eventually confront the practical reality of a house filled with belongings.And in many cases, those belongings represent decades of accumulation.<h2>Preparing Before the Moment Arrives</h2>Families who navigate these transitions most smoothly tend to start conversations early.Talking about downsizing while parents are still active and engaged allows them to share the stories behind items that matter most. It also helps families identify what should stay in the family and what can be sold, donated or passed along.Simple steps can make a significant difference. That can include documenting valuable collections, organizing important records and creating a plan for heirlooms and keepsakes.Even beginning the decluttering process in a home can reduce the burden later.When the task becomes too large to manage alone, seeking professional support can also provide structure and guidance during what is often a stressful period.Transitions are rarely just logistical events. They represent major life milestones for families — moments when the past and the future intersect in a very tangible way.In fact, a&nbsp;<a href="https://swns-research.medium.com/moving-tops-the-list-of-most-stressful-life-events-c673b81733e2">2020 study</a> identified the most stressful life event as moving, ahead of divorce and getting married. While other companies only handle certain aspects of what seniors need during this stressful time, Caring Transitions aims to be the complete solution. Caring Transitions helps seniors relocate by spending time at their homes, helping them pack and organize their belongings, then moving those belongings to the new home and setting them up in a way that feels comfortable and familiar.&nbsp; &nbsp;Then, the team returns to the original location to arrange and host an in-person or online estate sale through its proprietary platform,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-unveils-groundbreaking-ctbids-app-2724486">CTBIDS</a>. Franchisees can coordinate and facilitate online auctions for the client through the powerful proprietary platform and receive a portion of the liquidation sales to maximize their income. Ninety percent of all listed items on the platform are sold.&nbsp;<h2>A Different Way to Think About the Wealth Transfer</h2>The generational wealth transfer will shape American households for decades. Financial institutions, estate planners and policymakers are already preparing for its economic implications.But behind the financial headlines lies another reality. Homes must be sorted. Belongings must be evaluated. Families must decide what to keep, what to pass on and what to let go. The scale of that task across millions of households is enormous.Understanding the Great Wealth Transfer means looking past financial accounts and focusing on what happens inside the home. Families still have to sort, move and make decisions about a lifetime of belongings.For many families, that process becomes one of the most meaningful — and complicated — parts of the entire transfer.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

As trillions of dollars pass between generations, Caring Transitions aims to help families sort, sell, and let go of a lifetime of belongings.

After Decades in Corporate America, Bobby Wilkinson Finds a More Meaningful Way to Serve Through Caring Transitions

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