Caring Transitions

<h4>1851 Franchise: What are Caring Transitions’ key differentiators?</h4>James Stapleton: We aren’t a moving company, and we aren’t an estate sales company. We are a transition company, and we are the largest in the segment. It’s not about moving boxes; it’s about recreating an environment that feels like home in a new location, and that requires care, patience and listening. Because of our size and experience, we can create a seamless transition for seniors, filling a gap in the otherwise crowded senior services industry that no one else is addressing.A mover can come in and move the kitchen table, but Caring Transitions moves 50 years of memories that happened at that kitchen table. There is a critical difference there. With Caring Transitions, you've got people who really take care of the emotion that is integral to the transition process. They help clients decide what to keep and what to throw away or donate or sell. Everyone who works for Caring Transitions has a story of a friend or family member who went through a difficult transition, and they take this work personally.In terms of the franchise opportunity, we are differentiated by a model that is designed specifically to help franchise owners grow fast. Most franchises start you with one unit, then wait until you grow to a certain size and then allow you to acquire another territory. Our franchisees, on the other hand, can grow as big as they want, as fast as they want. They tell us what their goals are, and we provide a dedicated coach and guide them through writing a business plan to execute so they can scale their business with our full support.<h4>1851: What are the brand’s growth goals for 2022?</h4>Stapleton: Back in 2019, our goal was to reach 400 units in five years, and we’re already at 255, so we are far outpacing our five-year growth plan. But more importantly, we are not focused on growth for growth’s sake alone. The more we grow, the more clients we can serve, further establishing Caring Transitions as the dominant player in our category.Right now, we are primarily concerned with putting the right people in our system. So far, we’ve had no trouble finding talented franchise owners who align with our values, and we have no interest in selling franchises to people who we don’t think can succeed in the long term.<h4>1851: What does the ideal Caring Transitions franchisee look like?</h4>Stapleton: The great thing about our model is that our franchisees don’t have to be experts in this industry to find success. We work with franchise owners from all walks of life. All we are really looking for are people who are passionate about what we do and are willing to be coached. Of course, local, grassroots marketing is a big part of any local business, so we are also looking for folks who can be aggressive and outgoing when it comes to building relationships in their communities.<h4>1851: How did Caring Transitions thrive during the pandemic?</h4>Stapleton: We made a couple of strategic pivots that paid off during the pandemic and still continue to drive business.A big part of our service offering is the estate sales we provide after transitioning a senior. Whatever they no longer want, we will sell or auction off on our proprietary platform. Of course, during the pandemic, social distancing made that difficult, so we created an app that allows people to take pictures of the items they would like to sell and send them to us, then we take those pictures and turn them into an online estate sale. Ultimately, that pivot proved wildly successful, and it’s something we’re continuing to build on even as we move on from the pandemic.Some of our owners found ways to continue providing service even when their market was completely shut down and they couldn’t get into senior living facilities. We had one group who turned their business partly into a delivery service for seniors. They would do grocery or medicine runs for seniors. We also had a lot of owners who hosted activities for seniors who couldn't see their families. One of our owners hosted virtual bingo. Other owners held auctions on our&nbsp;<a href="https://ctbids.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=caring-transitions-executive-qa-james-stapleton-vice-president-of-franchising-development-2718817" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">CTBIDS platform</a> used the proceeds to support staff and purchase gifts for seniors.&nbsp;Those actions speak to how this is not just a business but a community of caring owners. Of course, they are concerned with running a profitable business, but taking the stress off of these families, taking care of their clients and making a difference to is what they’re the most proud of.&nbsp;<h4>1851: Why did you choose to join Caring Transitions?</h4>Stapleton: Almost all of us at the corporate level have something that drew us to Caring Transitions from similar experiences that we have had in our own lives. For me, it was my grandmother. My grandmother lived in her house for over 50 years and during that time she collected a lot of “stuff” during that time. The last few years of her life she spent in rehab facilities and hospitals and I had a conversation with my mom about “what are we going to do if something happens with all the stuff in this house. When I read about Caring Transitions I saw that there was a definite need for these services and I could be passionate about talking about the business. It wasn’t until I met our amazing operations team who supports all of our owners that I was like “Let’s go!! Full steam ahead” and haven’t looked back since.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h4>1851: How does Caring Transitions support franchisees?</h4>Stapleton: Franchisee support is one of our biggest areas of focus, and it starts as soon as a franchisee signs on to open their territory. We provide comprehensive training for every aspect of the business and ongoing, dedicated support after that. Any challenge or question a franchise owner runs into in the field, all they have to do is give us a call to get personal support.&nbsp;Our focus on franchisee success is probably best encapsulated by our Winners Circle program, which allows franchisees to earn their initial franchise fee back after hitting certain milestones within the first five years. We want our franchisees to be able to reinvest in themselves and their business, so we do everything possible to encourage that, including returning the franchise fee for top performers. That’s not something you’ll find at many other franchise brands.

Caring Transitions Executive Q&A: James Stapleton, Vice President of Franchising Development

1851 Franchise

Stapleton discusses what sets Caring Transitions apart as a unique franchise opportunity.

This brand page has been paid for by CARING TRANSITIONS. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

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Caring Transitions Closes Out Record-Breaking 2025 With Over 400 Locations, Continued Growth and Vision for 2026

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With 19 new locations opened in Q1 alone and a 25% surge in leads,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> is converting its record-breaking 2025 momentum into a dominant start to 2026. This rapid expansion and heightened consumer engagement signal a defining year for the senior relocation leader.“Q1 has been one of the strongest in Caring Transitions' history,” said Brand President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-lewandowski-822b5011">Joe Lewandowski</a>. “In 2026, we want to expand our footprint, we want to help owners scale, dominate the marketplace and continue to advance the tech stack.”A key driver of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a>’ early-year success has been its continued franchise expansion. “We trained and opened 19 locations in Q1, which is amazing,” Lewandowski said. “Our first location in Vermont — we are very excited about that.”This expansion not only increases the brand’s national footprint but also positions Caring Transitions to better serve a rapidly growing senior population, a demographic trend that continues to fuel long-term demand for relocation, downsizing and estate sale services.Beyond unit growth, Caring Transitions is investing heavily in the systems and people that support franchisee success. One of the most notable additions this quarter is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanhayes">Nan Hayes</a>, who joined the brand as director of training and coaching. The brand is also enhancing its operational toolkit with new resources designed to help franchisees improve efficiency and profitability.“We are also working with Caring Quote to help our owners with pricing and productivity,” he said. “We are also adding coaches to help owners expand.”These initiatives reflect a broader strategy of helping franchisees move beyond day-to-day operations and build scalable businesses within the system, giving owners a meaningful advantage as they pursue multi-territory growth.“From a marketing standpoint, we are dominating the conversation — we have a 25% increase in leads in the first quarter and our web traffic is up as well,” Lewandowski said. “Everything is firing on all cylinders.”Another major contributor to the brand’s momentum is its proprietary online estate sale platform,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">CTBids</a>, which continues to deliver strong performance across multiple metrics.“From a CTBids standpoint, we are focused on shipping and creating a consistent experience for customers across all locations,” Lewandowski said. “We are getting ready to launch a new integration we’ve been working on, starting in Q2.”The platform’s Q1 results reinforce its growing importance to the system:<ul><li>New registrations increased 22%</li><li>Premier membership participation increased 240%</li><li>Online auction sales climbed 23%</li><li>Average sale value increased 8%</li><li>Total CTBids sales grew 30%</li><li>Total items sold rose 24%</li></ul>“Everything is really coming together — over a million visits to the website, over a million active users now,” Lewandowski said.These gains not only enhance revenue opportunities for franchisees but also strengthen the overall ecosystem that differentiates Caring Transitions from competitors.“Looking ahead, we are continuing to focus on many of the same things, targeting people who make good owners,” Lewandowski said. “We are looking at Northern California, Miami, Idaho, New Mexico.”By mixing smart market growth with a steady focus on tech, training, and marketing, Caring Transitions is setting itself up to keep that momentum going strong all through 2026 and beyond.ABOUT CARING TRANSITIONS: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 its 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 425 locations, Caring Transitions’ compassionate, experienced professionals minimize stress and relieve the burdens of life’s transitions. To learn more visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitions.com/">https://www.caringtransitions.com/</a>.

With new locations, rising consumer demand and continued investment in technology and training, the senior relocation leader enters 2026 with strong systemwide growth.

Caring Transitions Opens 19 New Locations in Q1 2026 as CTBids Sales Climb 30%

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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

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<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> continues to strengthen its leadership bench with the return of one of the most influential figures in the senior relocation industry.&nbsp;With a long history in senior move management and a strong connection to the brand,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanhayes">Nan Hayes</a> has returned to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> as Director of Training and Franchise Business Coaching.Hayes brings decades of experience to the position, including her work as a founding leader in the development of the senior relocation industry and her role in helping establish professional standards that now guide the field. Her return marks a full-circle moment for both Hayes and the brand she helped shape in its early years.<h2>A Pioneer in Senior Relocation</h2>Hayes’ journey into senior relocation began long before the industry formally existed. “I started volunteering with seniors when I was a teenager,” Hayes said. “I became a buyer for a large drug chain and worked as an executive, but I always volunteered with older adults. Eventually, I found myself spending more and more time helping seniors.”That passion turned into a professional calling. In the 1990s, Hayes encountered a moment that would shape the trajectory of her career.“There was a moment after we were flipping houses when we were left with a home that still contained all of the owner’s belongings,” Hayes said. “The family didn’t know what to do with their mom’s possessions. It was heartbreaking to see antiques thrown into the dumpster simply because no one had a process or a solution.”Recognizing a major gap in services for older adults and their families, Hayes launched her own company and began developing systems to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/senior-services-and-the-future-of-franchising-in-an-aging-america-2731562">help seniors transition out of their homes with dignity and organization.</a>“At that time, senior relocation didn’t really exist as an industry,” Hayes said. “I started providing services under my own company and eventually began training people around the country on how to do this work.”<h2>Establishing Standards for an Emerging Industry</h2>As senior relocation services gained national traction, Hayes played a central role in professionalizing the space. She was instrumental in supporting the growth of a national trade organization focused on the sector and helped develop certification programs and operational standards for professionals working with older adults.“My whole position on the industry has always been that it is leadership’s responsibility to set standards,” Hayes said. “We needed consistency so this could become a recognized industry. What are the services? How are they delivered? What are the standards?”Those early frameworks proved essential for a service category built on trust and compassion. “We literally created certification programs because standards in this high-touch industry were critical,” Hayes said.From the beginning, Caring Transitions aligned closely with that philosophy.“Caring Transitions adopted those standards very early,” Hayes said. “They understood that serving older-adult clients is a high-touch business and recognized the need for care and compassion to keep seniors safe. That’s a big reason why they’ve been such a successful franchise.”<h2>A Longstanding Connection to Caring Transitions</h2>Hayes’ relationship with Caring Transitions spans more than two decades. She began consulting with the brand in the early 2000s, working alongside leadership to help develop training programs, operational standards and franchise support systems as the company expanded.“At the time, there were about 20 to 30 franchises,” Hayes said. “Today, there are more than 435 units across the country. It’s incredible to see how the organization has grown.”In 2018, Hayes stepped away from her consulting role with Caring Transitions while caring for her mother, who had been diagnosed with dementia. During that time, she continued working within the industry while remaining closely connected to the mission that had shaped her career.Now, nearly seven years later, she is returning to the organization in a full-time leadership role.“Helping families through times of transition isn’t just my career, it’s my calling,” Hayes said. “I’m grateful and excited to once again work alongside leaders, owners and partners who share that same passion.”<h2>Strengthening Training and Franchise Support</h2>In her new role as Director of Training and Franchise Business Coaching, Hayes will focus on supporting franchise owners and the coaches who guide them through every stage of their business journey.“My focus is helping with everything from new tools and training to coaching skills and how we respond to the needs of our franchise owners,” Hayes said.<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’ support system for franchisees</a> has also expanded significantly over the years, and Hayes sees that structure as one of the brand’s strongest differentiators.“There is an understanding that Caring Transitions offers a tremendous amount of support and training for new owners,” Hayes said. “We have onboarding coaches, regional coaches, classroom training, field training and specialized business development coaching.”New franchise owners benefit from a comprehensive onboarding process, and the support continues long after the first year of operation.“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.”<h2>Positioned for the Industry’s Next Chapter</h2>Hayes returns to Caring Transitions at a pivotal moment for both the company and the senior services industry. With&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/the-growing-need-for-senior-downsizing-how-caring-transitions-is-leading-the-way-2728831">the aging population driving increasing demand</a> for relocation, downsizing and estate transition services, the market opportunity continues to expand rapidly.“There is a huge influx of clients right now,” Hayes said. “The demand for these services is really taking off.”But Hayes emphasizes that success in the field requires far more than operational knowledge.“For anyone who thinks senior relocation is just a business opportunity, it’s important to understand that this work requires compassion and understanding,” she said. “You’re working with people who are going through major life transitions. It’s hard work, but it’s incredibly meaningful.”That mindset, she believes,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/10-reasons-why-caring-transitions-stands-out-among-other-franchises-2727831">is what sets Caring Transitions apart</a>. “It’s much more than a business,” Hayes said. “This is truly a calling to work with seniors. The owners in this system understand that, and that mindset really defines Caring Transitions.”<h2>Looking Ahead</h2>As Hayes settles into her new leadership role, she is energized by the opportunity to help guide&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-surpasses-400-locations-celebrates-record-breaking-first-half-of-2025-2729880">the next generation of franchise owners entering the system</a>.“I’m excited to watch the next generation of owners come in and continue building on what we’ve created,” Hayes said.She also sees tremendous opportunity for the brand to expand consumer awareness about the full scope of services Caring Transitions provides. “We’re in the thick of it now,” Hayes said. “Our job is to help families understand that we are a trusted resource who can help with everything from start to finish — sorting, organizing, space planning, liquidations, online auctions and more.”For Hayes, the return to Caring Transitions represents a continuation of a mission she helped launch decades ago.“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the organization become the national powerhouse we envisioned years ago,” Hayes said. “Helping families navigate life transitions with dignity and support will always be at the heart of what we do.”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>.

Hayes, a true pioneer in senior relocation, is back with Caring Transitions as the brand’s Director of Training and Franchise Business Coaching. 

Meet Nan Hayes: The Industry Trailblazer Strengthening Caring Transitions’ Operational Leadership

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Senior Services and the Future of Franchising in an Aging America

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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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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.

Behind the Great Wealth Transfer: The Lifetime of Belongings No One Is Talking About

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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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For many couples, the dream of building something meaningful together goes beyond date nights and vacations. It’s often more about creating a shared future with purpose. Increasingly,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-cynthia-ronald-cox-hartwell-ga-2730052">couples across the country</a> are finding that franchising offers a powerful way to combine their professional strengths, personal values and long-term goals.With its full-service senior relocation, downsizing and estate sale model,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> has become an especially attractive option for husband-and-wife teams. The brand’s structure allows partners to divide responsibilities, lean into complementary skill sets and build a business that makes a tangible difference in their community.For&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsofpalmharbor.com/">Ken and Nicki Leonard</a>, becoming franchise owners together was both a natural next step and a deeply personal decision.<h2>A Shared Heart for Service</h2>Before joining&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a>, both Ken and Nicki had long careers rooted in helping others."I am a service-minded person," Ken said. "I started doing design work and home repair, and Nicki’s brother, who was an administrator for our county, suggested substitute teaching. I ended up being a teacher for 10 years and when COVID happened, I got out of that. Nicky is a retired registered nurse with the VA, which she did for about 20 years. She is service-minded as well.”Nicki’s health care career spanned nearly two decades. “I started as a surgical technician and eventually went back to school,” she said. “I finished out my 18-year career as a certified wound care specialist. Primarily, our work was with veterans.”After stepping away from full-time nursing and taking travel assignments, the couple began thinking more seriously about entrepreneurship. Ken had always had a side hustle, including a successful Amazon book business, and both felt the pull to build something of their own.“We got the bug of owning our own business and setting our own schedule,” Ken said.When they were approached three years ago about taking over a Caring Transitions territory near them in Palm Harbor, Florida, the concept immediately resonated.<h2>Turning Personal Experience Into Purpose</h2>For many Caring Transitions franchisees,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/10-reasons-why-caring-transitions-stands-out-among-other-franchises-2727831">the decision to invest is deeply personal</a>. For the Leonards, it was shaped by their own family’s experience.Ken recalls struggling to help his mother from a distance when her health declined.“My mom had severe health issues, but she lived in Baltimore when I lived in Florida,” he said. “Her health started to decline and it was hard to tell from far away. On FaceTime, she seemed great, but when we came to visit her, she ended up needing surgery, and we ended up moving her to Florida. But we didn’t know what to do with the house and all of the things she had accumulated.”At the time, they didn’t know about Caring Transitions. “Had we known about Caring Transitions, we definitely would have used their services ourselves,” Ken said.Today, that lived experience fuels their empathy for clients. “As a husband-and-wife team, we can walk in and we know what that family is living through because we’ve been through it,” Ken said.Nicki adds that their professional backgrounds only deepen that connection. “We really appreciated the fact that our foundation and our professional past truly gives us a rock-solid foundation for these clients,” she said. “We are bringing a skill set that not many people have. It was really a no-brainer the more we started to get involved in the community.”<h2>A Model Built for Complementary Strengths</h2>One reason couples are drawn to Caring Transitions is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/exploring-the-flexibility-of-owning-a-caring-transitions-franchise-how-you-can-build-a-business-that-fits-your-lifestyle-2729907">the flexibility of its service lines and operational structure</a>. The business includes senior relocation services, downsizing, estate sales and the proprietary&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-franchisees-can-tap-into-the-rising-trend-of-estate-sales-with-ctbids-2728327">CTBids online auction platform</a>, offering multiple revenue streams and operational roles.This allows couples to divide responsibilities based on their strengths. Some owners focus on sales and community outreach while their partner manages operations and logistics. Others leverage health care, real estate, project management or marketing experience. The model adapts to the team.For Ken and Nicki, the shared responsibility also means shared impact. “We decided to leave our 9-to-5 so we could make an impact in the community together, and it doesn’t run on the shoulders of one person,” Nicki said.That balance helps prevent burnout and creates sustainability, a key factor for couples planning long-term ownership.<h2>Flexibility That Strengthens Both Business and Marriage</h2>For many couples, franchising represents not just financial opportunity but lifestyle freedom. That was a major draw for the Leonards.“If we want to take a three-day weekend to jump in the RV and visit the family, we can because we know each other’s schedule,” Ken said. “That trust is there because we’ve been married for a while now. I don’t have to worry about somebody doing something with the company while we are gone.”That built-in trust is one of the biggest advantages&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-macon-ga-jay-mcelrath-leslie-vito-2729746#stories">couples bring to franchise ownership</a>. “We can read each other’s minds. We don’t really have to talk about it,” Ken said. “But you do have to set that work-life balance, so that you aren’t always talking about business.”Nicki agrees that their communication as a husband-and-wife team has been a strength. “Our clients love that we are a husband-and-wife team, they really respond well to it,” she said.&nbsp;That dynamic can be&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-a-recession-resistant-franchise-opportunity-for-entrepreneurs-2730712">especially meaningful in senior transition work</a>, where families are navigating emotional and complex life changes. Clients often find comfort in working with a team that models partnership and stability.<h2>Building a Business and a Life Together</h2>As America’s senior population continues to grow,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/scaling-with-purpose-why-caring-transitions-owners-keep-growing-2729104">demand for compassionate, professional relocation and transition services is rising</a>. For couples seeking both opportunity and purpose, Caring Transitions offers a unique path.It’s a chance to combine skills, share responsibility and make a meaningful difference side by side.“Having a spouse that supports you is huge, we could not have done this journey without having each other as sounding boards and true business partners,” Ken said.Together, they’ve built more than a franchise. They’ve built a shared mission rooted in service, strengthened by partnership and sustained by trust.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>.

Couples are increasingly owning a Caring Transitions franchise together. This allows them to combine skills to build a meaningful business offering essential senior relocation and downsizing services.

Caring Transitions Executive Q&A: James Stapleton, Vice President of Franchising Development

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