Caring Transitions

After two decades in corporate communications, including time at a major thrift chain,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-schaeffer?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=erin-schaeffer-caring-transitions-bellevue-federal-way-2729725" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Erin Schaeffer</a> saw the waste, the need and the opportunity to make a difference. A lifelong Seattle-area resident, Schaeffer was drawn to the mission of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=erin-schaeffer-caring-transitions-bellevue-federal-way-2729725" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Caring Transitions</a>: helping seniors while promoting sustainability and reuse. She spent more than a year working for another Caring Transitions franchisee before purchasing the Bellevue West/Federal Way territory. For Schaeffer, this isn't just about running a business; it's about creating a fulfilling new chapter that fits her life while making a real difference and lifting others up. “I love that you have the opportunity to support people,” Schaeffer said. “I always liked employee communications, but a lot of time in a corporate role you get so busy doing business that it’s hard to focus on the people. This is more of an opportunity to help people and provide a service that people really need. You’re not trying to sell them on something they don’t need. You’re actually helping people.”1851 Franchise spoke with Schaeffer to learn more about her story and her decision to franchise with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a>.&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Erin Schaeffer: I’ve lived in the Seattle area my whole life. I worked in corporate communications, and one of the places I worked was a chain of thrift stores — I saw a lot of data on reuse and how many perfectly usable goods end up in landfills. I’m drawn to things with history, I like finding things secondhand, I am very interested in the sustainable aspects of Caring Transitions — the circular economy.I worked for a franchisee for over a year. I quit my corporate gig and was looking for something to do that helped people and was available part-time. I started working for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-black-b132427/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=erin-schaeffer-caring-transitions-bellevue-federal-way-2729725" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jennifer Black</a>, and I loved the variety of the job. When a transfer became available, I purchased the area — and it was great because it happened to be in my community. Jennifer has been with Caring Transitions for 14 years. It was great working for a woman empowering other women.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’re in it?Schaeffer: I liked the flexibility and not sitting in an office all day. After 23 years in a corporate environment, I wanted more flexibility with my time. My kids are teenagers now and aren’t going to live with me much longer. I wanted to start a business that I could blend into my life, versus trying to fit into the schedule of others. Franchising offers that model.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Schaeffer: I really love the ability to use different talents. I love that you have the opportunity to support people. I always did employee communication, but a lot of time in corporate you get so busy doing business that it’s hard to focus on the people. This is more of an opportunity to help people and provide a service that they really need. You’re not trying to sell them on something they don’t need. You’re actually helping people.I also love treasure hunting, and I think Caring Transitions does a great job helping people find things online. That’s an exciting hobby for collectors or young people setting up a home. The big things were sustainability and supporting seniors.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Schaeffer: Right now, we feel like we have enough, but there’s really an opportunity to grow. I’m also excited to offer people a path to employment, especially women who are mothers. I love working with teams with smart and savvy people who want to work in an unconventional way.1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Schaeffer: This will be a family business. I’m working with my husband, Brandon, who owns a business in video and television archiving.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Schaeffer: Find a company that aligns with your values and interests and dig in. I spent more than a year working with current rock star franchise owners — Jennifer Black and Tina Nash — who graciously employed me, mentored me, gave me the opportunity to learn about the company from the inside, and encouraged me to jump in and drive my own success.I think any company that will open their doors to you owning a part of the success through franchising is worth exploring. If you echo the parent company’s passion for what they do, and you see a challenge as a thrilling opportunity, do your research — then go for it.For more information about franchising with Caring Transitions, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/">https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/</a>. 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 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 350 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/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=erin-schaeffer-caring-transitions-bellevue-federal-way-2729725" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.caringtransitions.com/</a>.

From Thrift to Purpose: Erin Schaeffer Brings Caring Transitions to Washington

Erin Schaeffer | Caring Transitions Franchisee | Bellevue West/Federal Way

1851 Franchise

After leaving a 23-year corporate career, Schaeffer is building a sustainable, people-first business that aligns with her values — and helps other women do the same.

From Thrift to Purpose: Erin Schaeffer Brings Caring Transitions to Bellevue West and Federal Way, Washington

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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.

Why Couples Are Choosing to Own a Caring Transitions Franchise Together

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For entrepreneurs searching for more than just another business opportunity, the senior services industry has become one of the most meaningful and resilient sectors in franchising. At the forefront of that movement is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a>, a brand built around helping seniors and their families navigate life’s biggest transitions including downsizing, relocation and estate settling, with dignity and compassion.For franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriemulhollandfrawley">Carrie Frawley</a>, the decision was deeply personal. “My husband and I started our business in March of 2024,” Frawley said. “In 2022, my father passed away from prostate cancer, and a year later, my father-in-law passed away out of the blue. So we had to clean out his home and get rid of his possessions. There wasn’t anybody around that was doing what&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> does.”That experience opened Frawley’s eyes to both a market gap and a calling she had felt since childhood. “I’ve always had a passion for helping seniors,” she said. “My husband looked into companies that we could hire to help seniors and their families. He came across Caring Transitions and asked me what I thought. There was nobody in the area who could help these families.”Soon after, she and her husband made a life-changing decision. “We both quit our corporate jobs. I worked in cybersecurity, and my husband worked in the tea industry, and in 2024, we opened up our business in Milford, Connecticut,” she said.&nbsp;<h2>A Growing Industry with Real Demand</h2>The senior services industry continues to expand as the aging population grows and more families face the emotional and logistical challenges of downsizing and relocation. Unlike traditional in-home medical care models,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/the-growing-need-for-senior-downsizing-how-caring-transitions-is-leading-the-way-2728831">Caring Transitions focuses on planned, project-based services</a>, creating predictability for owners while delivering critical support for families.For Frawley, that need was evident firsthand. “We understand what families have been through because we’ve gone through it,” she said. "Having that background, along with the trust we have built with our referral partners, has played a significant role in our growth within the community."<h2>A Home-Based, Low-Overhead Model with Scalable Growth</h2>One of the key advantages of owning a Caring Transitions franchise is its flexible, home-based structure. Owners don’t need a traditional storefront, allowing them to launch with lower overhead and scale strategically.“We liked that you had a support system behind you. I didn’t have to have an office, and we could run the business out of our home,” Frawley said. “And having the support of the Caring Transitions team behind you is absolutely amazing.”The results speak for themselves. “We’ve more than doubled our revenue from the first year to the second year,” she said. “Having someone who has been through it that can help us is amazing.”Because the model includes multiple revenue streams, including senior relocation services, downsizing, estate sales and online auctions through the&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>, franchisees can build consistent, diversified income while serving a clear market need.<h2>Unmatched Support and a Collaborative Network</h2>For many entrepreneurs, the fear of going it alone can be a major hurdle. Caring Transitions addresses that head-on with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/the-steps-to-owning-a-caring-transitions-franchise-2727519">structured training, coaching and peer collaboration</a>.“The organization as a whole is very caring. They really care about your outcome and how well you do,” Frawley said. “They connect you with owners that have been successful. It’s great to have those conversations and we know that we can do this.”That network of fellow owners provides both practical advice and emotional reassurance. “The problems that we have are the problems that they have,” she said. “That is really appealing to anybody who wants to enter the senior industry for the first time.”<h2>Building Community Relationships That Matter</h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-makes-caring-transitions-the-premier-franchise-choice-for-senior-move-management-2730948">Success in the senior services industry</a> is built on trust. Franchisees develop relationships with assisted living facilities, real estate agents and community partners, becoming a go-to resource for families in transition.“We really had to build these relationships ourselves,” Frawley said. “It was really about walking into assisted living and real estate agents and telling them our story as to how we can help.”<h2>A Business That Changes Lives (Including Your Own)</h2>At its core, Caring Transitions offers something many entrepreneurs are searching for:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/10-reasons-why-caring-transitions-stands-out-among-other-franchises-2727831">meaningful work</a>. Frawley recalls one client, for example, who needed to relocate from Connecticut to Florida because his wife had Alzheimer’s disease.“We had to step in and decide what to help with, what to pack, box up everything and get the moving company,” she said. “The last day we saw him, he broke down and cried because he said if it wasn’t for us, he wouldn’t have moved.”For entrepreneurs considering the senior services industry, the opportunity is clear: strong demographic demand, a scalable and flexible model, diversified revenue streams and a built-in support network.But for owners like Frawley, the real benefit goes deeper. “I can go to sleep a whole lot easier now knowing I made a difference in somebody’s life,” she said. “We’ve never been happier.”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 franchisees, like Carrie Frawley, find financial and personal fulfillment by offering compassionate, essential services for families navigating major life changes.

The Benefits of Owning a Caring Transitions Franchise: Why Entrepreneurs Are Choosing the Senior Services Industry

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When&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-c-jackson-0a78a8205/">Brenda Jackson</a>, the franchisee behind&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> of Essex, Maryland, began exploring franchising, she wasn’t just looking for a new career, she was looking for purpose.“I came to franchising really wanting to build something meaningful and stable, but also something that could be flexible enough to serve real people in real situations,” Jackson said. “I have a background in leadership and management, so I was very comfortable with structure. I quickly learned that this business requires patience, adaptability and a thick skin.”What ultimately confirmed her decision was the bigger picture.“Every day, 10,000 Americans are turning 65,” she said. “Within the next decade, we are going to see that population exceed the population under 18. This isn’t just a growing industry, it’s a growing responsibility. Believing in the service and its impact on families is what really kept me here.”For Jackson,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-a-recession-resistant-franchise-opportunity-for-entrepreneurs-2730712">the senior services industry</a> isn’t just a demographic trend. It’s a calling.<h2>Choosing the Playbook Instead of Reinventing the Wheel</h2>Jackson was no stranger to entrepreneurship. She had built a successful real estate career and launched a trucking business. As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, she had already developed a passion for helping older adults and their families navigate complex transitions.In 2024, when her company underwent a reorganization and she was affected by the change, she saw an opportunity.“I felt that was the opportune time for me to go out and start something on my own,” she said. “I thought about trying to really set up something similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> on my own. But as I started doing my research and competitive analysis, I realized I didn’t need to reinvent the wheel.”Franchising offered her something powerful: a proven roadmap. “Franchising would really give me the playbook, there are the systems and a proven model in place,” Jackson said. “I knew I would have to build trust and earn that trust every day. I felt that this was the right opportunity for me to do that.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-surpasses-400-locations-celebrates-record-breaking-first-half-of-2025-2729880">brand’s strong reputation</a> and the clear demand in her market sealed the deal.<h2>From Training to Launch</h2>Jackson finalized her franchise agreement and began training in October 2024. By February 2025, she officially launched her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitions.com/locations/essex">Caring Transitions of Essex, Maryland business</a>.“The year has been great overall,” she said. “It hasn’t been without its challenges, but you have to be able to adapt and meet people where they are.”She entered the business with realistic expectations. “I didn’t expect to break out and hit extremely big numbers right away,” Jackson said. “I knew that it was going to be tough the first couple of years. But I really believe in the service I’m providing and I’m not afraid to make mistakes.”That mindset has shaped how she approaches ownership. “That is the one thing I would tell anyone that is interested in franchising, you will make mistakes. But what matters most is just continuing to show up.”<h2>Supported From Day One</h2>One of the defining aspects of Jackson’s first year has been&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-franchising-with-caring-transitions-is-a-smart-investment-for-entrepreneurs-2731027">the strength of the Caring Transitions support system</a>.“The team has ongoing training sessions. The mentoring program with more experienced franchisees has been great,” she said. “The onboarding process is also pretty extensive. Through the first year, they are really handholding and ensuring that you have a good handle on the best practices and your P&amp;L and your staffing and your marketing.”For Jackson, that level of guidance has made a meaningful difference. “I’ve really appreciated all of these things,” she said. “Anytime I need to reach out, they have been available to help me and support me and schedule calls.”<h2>Boots on the Ground and Eyes on Growth</h2>Today, Jackson is deeply hands-on in her business. “I am a boots-on-the-ground type of person and I really wanted to learn how to do everything myself,” she said. “I help with the moves, with everything. And I’m also out there networking and doing the consultations.”At the same time, she’s building for scale. “I had a very ambitious target for my first year, and I am a numbers person,” Jackson said. “My goal now is to double the revenue I did for last year and really focus on training, retraining and ensuring that my team is able to do everything they need to do.”Hiring a business development representative and strengthening her team are key priorities.“You have to be out there in the community so people can see you,” she said. “Making sure that I have a strong person in that role to ensure I have a stronger team is critical.”<h2>Meaningful Work in a Defining Moment</h2>Beyond the numbers, what keeps Jackson energized is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-home-service-franchises-are-supporting-seniors-2725932">the impact</a>. “I’ve met some great people and amazing families,” she said. “I’ve had an opportunity to really support people at challenging times. Every day I knew that this is the right business for me.”She believes franchising can be a powerful pathway to entrepreneurship, but only when approached with humility and commitment. “It’s not about perfection, it’s about commitment to learning, serving and growing,” Jackson said.And in senior services, the opportunity is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-compassion-driven-businesses-are-thriving-how-caring-transitions-leads-with-heart-and-purpose-2729594">both business-driven and deeply human</a>.“This work isn’t easy, but the need is real,” she said. “We are entering a moment when supporting older adults is becoming a defining challenge for families and communities. There is a huge opportunity here for anyone interested in becoming an entrepreneur.”For more information visit:<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info"> https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>

Maryland-based Caring Transitions franchisee Brenda Jackson set out to build something meaningful and found a business that meets one of America’s most urgent needs.

From Real Estate Deals to Real-Life Transitions: How This Caring Transitions Franchisee Found Her Purpose

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

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For prospective franchise owners&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/what-makes-caring-transitions-the-premier-franchise-choice-for-senior-move-management-2730948">exploring opportunities in senior services</a>, territory availability is often one of the first — and most important — questions. Even after a record year of expansion,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> still has room to grow in 2026. The brand has hundreds of locations operating nationwide, but there are still dozens of attractive markets where new owners can step in and build a territory.According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-stapleton-cfe-0aa67629">Jim Stapleton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a>, that balance of maturity and opportunity is intentional.“The business can be successful anywhere,” Stapleton said. “We are addressing the needs of people who are getting older and needing help, which is always going to be a demand in every ZIP code in the U.S.”.&nbsp;<h2>How Caring Transitions Thinks About Territory</h2>Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar concepts, Caring Transitions operates as&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-franchising-with-caring-transitions-is-a-smart-investment-for-entrepreneurs-2731027#featured">a service-based franchise</a>, supporting seniors and their families through downsizing, estate sales, relocation and life transitions. That model allows franchisees to serve clients across homes, estates and facilities — not from a single storefront.Territories are structured around defined ZIP codes and population density —&nbsp; not only to give owners room to build a sustainable business, but also to protect and grow the long-term value of their territory as an asset.As the system has expanded over the past several years, available ZIP codes in prime markets have become more limited. That scarcity can directly increase the long-term resale value of a territory.“Because of how we’ve grown over the past six years, it allows our owners with these prime locations to really ask for a good amount for their territory itself,” Stapleton said. “If anyone wants new ZIP codes, they have to buy them from the owner. That is very good for a service-based brand.”As availability tightens in high-demand markets, territory ownership becomes more than just a service footprint — it becomes an appreciating business asset with long-term equity potential.<h2>A Record Year With Plenty of Room Left</h2>In 2025 alone, Caring Transitions&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-closes-out-record-breaking-2025-with-over-400-locations-continued-growth-and-vision-for-2026-2731025#featured">awarded approximately 75 new franchises</a>, bringing the system well past 400 locations nationwide. Even so, Stapleton says opportunity remains widespread.“We have over 150 prime cities that are left across the country, as well as a lot of space in between there,” he said. “New franchisees can build equity immediately.”The brand is currently active in 48 states, with only Vermont and New Hampshire entirely unrepresented.<h2>Priority Markets Still Available in 2026</h2>Caring Transitions is a strong fit for almost any area, but right now, the brand is really focusing its franchise development efforts on places with a lot of seniors, high need for the kinds of transition services, or where it doesn’t have many franchises yet.Stapleton highlighted several key areas where the brand is actively seeking owners:<ul><li>Florida: Miami remains wide open, with a strong need for bilingual owners. Orlando is another major opportunity, along with Pensacola, Panama City and Tallahassee.</li><li>Northern California: Markets including Sacramento and Chico continue to be underrepresented.</li><li>Oregon: Multiple openings remain, including Bend.</li><li>Midwest: The Chicago metro area is currently open, along with much of Northern Indiana.</li><li>Northeast: Central New York, particularly around Syracuse, is available.</li><li>South: Memphis, Tennessee is also a priority market.</li></ul><h2>Matching the Right Owner to the Right Market</h2>Ultimately, territory availability at Caring Transitions isn’t just about filling maps. It’s about long-term alignment between the owner, the market and the mission of the brand.“It can be successful anywhere,” Stapleton said. “But how someone operates, who they serve and how they show up in their community — that’s what really determines success.”For entrepreneurs evaluating franchise opportunities in 2026, understanding where Caring Transitions is still growing — and why — can be a critical first step in building a business with both purpose and staying power.To learn more about available territories and franchise ownership with Caring Transitions, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

Despite national scale, Caring Transitions has prime 2026 franchise markets all across the country, including cities in Florida, California, New York and more. 

What Territories Are Available for Caring Transitions Franchises in 2026?

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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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As millions of baby boomers age into their late 60s, 70s and 80s, the demand for compassionate, comprehensive transition services is accelerating. Brands like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> are at the forefront of that movement, offering professional senior relocation, downsizing and estate sale services at a scale built to meet what many call the “Silver Tsunami.”“When we talk about why this is a growing industry, the major player in that is just the increase in the senior population,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-lewandowski-822b5011">Joe Lewandowski</a>, Brand President of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a>. “We hear a lot about the Silver Tsunami, and it is now Peak 65 — a four-year period we are in right now where the most Boomers will turn 65, almost 11,000 a day. That trend will continue until 2027.”<h2>Peak 65: A Demographic Wave Driving Opportunity</h2>The sheer scale of aging Americans is unprecedented. Each day, thousands of adults cross the threshold into retirement age. The U.S. population of adults aged 65 and older has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jchs.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/reports/files/Harvard_JCHS_Housing_Americas_Older_Adults_2023.pdf">increased by 34% over the past decade</a>, rising from 43 million in 2012 to 58 million in 2022. Despite a strong desire among older adults to age in place, with 92% of those aged 65 to 74 wishing to remain in their current homes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/census-bureau-releases-report-domestic-migration-older-americans">more than 3 million adults aged 65 and older</a> relocate each year due to health changes, downsizing decisions and moves to assisted living. “When you look at just that sheer volume, you start to look at where the needs are,” Lewandowski said. “That is a huge contributor to why the senior industry at large is growing.”These needs often become urgent following a triggering event: a fall, hospitalization or the passing of a spouse. In those moments, families must act quickly. “There is a definite need around senior relocation and downsizing,” Lewandowski said. “We have all these seniors turning 65 and they get to a point where they can no longer stay in their home. When a triggering event happens and they are forced to make that change, the senior relocation industry is in demand.”And the demand is already measurable. “When we think about the level of need, we had 50,000 people reach out in 2025 to Caring Transitions asking for help,” Lewandowski said. “That is a huge number. The need is definitely there.”For franchising, that volume represents something powerful: sustained, long-term demand not tied to trends, but to demographics.<h2>Families Are Farther Away and Need Professional Help</h2>The aging shift is compounded by another modern reality:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/how-caring-transitions-supports-adult-children-in-managing-their-parents-moves-2728833">families are more geographically dispersed than ever before</a>. Nearly 40% of adult children now live in a different state than their aging parents, making hands-on relocation management difficult.“The other piece is the families,” Lewandowski said. “They are not around for a lot of the pieces that come up. More and more families are noticing that their senior loved ones might need to move to an assisted living facility, but there is no one there to help.”For adult children juggling careers and their own families, managing a senior move from afar can take six to nine months, which is time they simply do not have.“If I don’t live in the same state as my parents and these things need to happen, how am I going to do that?” Lewandowski said. “It doesn’t make sense for families, they don’t know where to start and it is a major undertaking to do all these things related to senior relocation.”“That is something a professional organization can accomplish in a matter of weeks,” he added. “They don’t have the time, they are in a different state, it needs to be done.”This gap between need and capability is precisely where senior service franchises are stepping in.<h2>A Recession-Resistant Category</h2>Senior transition services also stand apart in another key way: resilience. Life transitions do not pause during economic downturns. Seniors still need to relocate for health reasons. Estates must still be cleared. Homes must be prepared for sale.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/caring-transitions-a-recession-resistant-franchise-opportunity-for-entrepreneurs-2730712">Franchisees within the Caring Transitions system have proven this firsthand</a>, launching during COVID, navigating housing slowdowns and even weathering natural disasters while continuing to grow.From a franchising perspective, this stability makes senior services uniquely attractive. Demand is driven by demographics and life events rather than discretionary consumer spending, creating a category with long-term staying power.As&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/why-compassion-driven-businesses-are-thriving-how-caring-transitions-leads-with-heart-and-purpose-2729594">awareness of senior relocation grows</a>, so too does the sophistication of the category. “There is also greater awareness of these services,” Lewandowski said. “Similar to when in-home senior care first started, people weren’t aware it was an option. That is happening now with senior relocation.”Caring Transitions has helped accelerate that awareness through scale and innovation, with more than 440 locations nationwide. That scale is paired with proprietary tools like&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 online estate sale platform, and streamlined quoting and operational systems designed to help franchisees move quickly and professionally.“We have been doing this for 20 years now,” Lewandowski said. “We have it down and know what it takes to help families transition through life’s stages.”<h2>The Future of Franchising in an Aging America</h2>As America continues to age, franchising is evolving alongside it. The next decade will not be defined solely by restaurants, fitness concepts or retail brands. It will increasingly be shaped by essential services tied to demographic inevitability.Senior relocation, downsizing and estate management represent one of the clearest long-term growth lanes in franchising today.For entrepreneurs, the opportunity is twofold: build a scalable, diversified business with multiple revenue streams and make a meaningful impact during some of life’s most emotional transitions.“We’re not just growing for growth’s sake,” Lewandowski said. “We’re bringing in the right owners, people who care deeply about their clients and communities.”In an aging America, that combination of compassion and operational strength may define the future of franchising itself.To learn more about franchising opportunities with Caring Transitions, visit:<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">&nbsp;https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info</a>.

The United States is entering one of the most significant demographic shifts in its history, reshaping not only the senior services industry, but the future of franchising itself.

From Thrift to Purpose: Erin Schaeffer Brings Caring Transitions to Bellevue West and Federal Way, Washington

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