Franchisor Stories
Caring Transitions Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026
Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: This fast-growing franchise offers senior relocation and estate services with heart.
LAST UPDATED: July 2025
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: caringtransitionsfranchise.com
1851 NEWSROOM: https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 400+
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $70,760 - $117,150
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $284,485 (average gross receipts for FY 2024)
Caring Transitions is the nation's leading provider of senior relocation, downsizing and estate sale services. The brand stands out for combining practical solutions with compassionate care, offering franchisees the opportunity to build a business that helps families during one of life’s most difficult transitions. Designed for semi-absentee or full-time operators, this turnkey service business offers flexibility, purpose, and the potential for high returns.
1. What Is the Brand Overview for Caring Transitions?
About the Brand
Caring Transitions was founded in 2006 to serve a growing need: seniors and their families needing support with downsizing, estate sales and transitions to assisted living. With aging Baby Boomers and increased demand for compassionate relocation services, the brand has grown to become the largest senior move management franchise in the United States.
Mission: To serve seniors and families with care, dignity, and respect during difficult life transitions.
Vision: To be the most trusted name in senior relocation and transition services nationwide.
Unique Selling Points (USPs):
- Comprehensive relocation, downsizing, and estate sale services in one package
- National recognition as a trusted senior services provider
- Proprietary online auction platform: CTBids
- Compassionate, client-first approach that builds community trust
- A turnkey service that appeals to both aging individuals and their families
2. What Are the Franchise Opportunity Details?
Why Franchise With Caring Transitions?
- Low overhead and fast ramp-up business model
- Recurring revenue potential through estate sales, auctions, and relocations
- Proven systems and processes honed over nearly 20 years
- Extensive initial and ongoing training
- Access to proprietary auction platform (CTBids) and digital tools
- Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives
Available Territories
According to the brand’s franchise website, franchisees can craft their own exclusive territories in the U.S. by “leveraging comprehensive market research and demographic analysis to ensure optimal market penetration and long-term success.”
For more information, candidates are invited to download Caring Transitions’ Franchise Opportunity Guide.
Investment Overview
Initial Costs: According to the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the estimated initial investment for a Caring Transitions franchise ranges from $70,760 to $117,150.
| Type of Expenditure | Min | Max |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $53,900 | $53,900 |
| Furniture & Equipment | $500 | $1,000 |
| Computer System | $1,000 | $3,000 |
| Training Travel & Expenses | $2,000 | $4,000 |
| Initial Rent, Telephone, Bank & Other Deposits | $350 | $2,000 |
| Additional Funds (6 Months) | $4,000 | $38,000 |
| Grand-Opening Promotion | $4,000 | $4,000 |
| Sales Employee | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Web Hosting Service | $100 | $100 |
| Monthly Office Rental Payment | $200 | $1,000 |
| Insurance | $2,000 | $4,000 |
| Certified Relocation Transition Specialist Training & Test | $650 | $3,000 |
| Membership & Association Fees | $500 | $500 |
| Estatesales.org Elite Package | $60 | $150 |
Initial Franchise Fee: The franchise fee for a territory with a population between 175,000 and 200,000 is $53,900, due upon signing the franchise agreement. If the population of a territory exceeds 200,000, franchisees must pay an additional $500 for every 1,000 people over.
Caring Transitions offers a discount of up to 10% for qualifying military veterans.
Ongoing Fees: According to the 2025 FDD, Caring Transitions franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing payments and fees:
| Type of Fee | Amount |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross receipts/month $300/month minimum for first 12 months $500/month minimum thereafter |
| National Branding Fee | 2% of gross receipts/month $350/month minimum |
| Local Marketing | Minimum of $399/month for first 12 months 4% of gross receipts/year thereafter |
ROI Potential: According to the 2025 FDD, the 253 franchises operating for the entirety of FY 2024 reported the following gross receipts:
| Quartile | Average | Median | Low | High |
| Top Quartile (63) | $606,166 | $572,549 | $359,444 | $2,549,600 |
| Second Quartile (63) | $275,970 | $269,961 | $202,811 | $358,069 |
| Third Quartile (63) | $150,813 | $152,485 | $112,127 | $200,604 |
| Bottom Quartile (64) | $55,717 | $57,630 | $4,625 | $111,848 |
| Total (253) | $284,485 | $202,811 | $4,625 | $2,549,600 |
3. What Franchisee Support Does Caring Transitions Provide?
Training Programs
Franchisees attend a five-day training program at corporate headquarters in Cincinnati, covering operations, marketing, sales, staffing and service delivery. Additional support is provided through online modules, webinars and ongoing coaching throughout the first year.
Operational Support
- Dedicated onboarding and launch coaching
- CTBids platform access and training
- Marketing playbooks and toolkits
- Business coaching and KPI tracking
- Peer network and annual conferences
Technology and Tools
- CTBids online estate sale and auction platform
- CRM and scheduling software
- Digital marketing systems and automation
- Website management and SEO tools
- Local landing pages for each territory
4. What Are the Franchise Requirements for Caring Transitions?
Eligibility Criteria
- Liquid Capital: $50,000
- Net Worth: $100,000
No prior industry experience required. Compassionate, organized, and community-minded individuals encouraged to apply.
Operational Commitments
- Full-time owner-operator or manager must be designated
- Semi-absentee ownership possible after full ramp-up and staffing
- Franchisee must complete training and participate in initial marketing launch
Funding Assistance
- SBA-eligible investment
- Franchise is listed on funding platforms like Guidant Financial and Benetrends
- Veterans discount programs and ROBS (retirement rollover) options available
5. Are There Franchisee Success Stories?
“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.” – Erin Schaeffer, franchisee.
“It had multiple revenue streams. So if the relocation portion is slow, maybe the downsizing side picks up. There are a lot of different areas to the business. As the market changes, we’re in a position to capitalize on that. I’m not just selling chicken fingers — it's a variety of services, and that was already built into the model.” – Marc Moore, franchisee.
6. What Is the Market Potential for Senior Services?
The U.S. population aged 65 and older is expected to reach 80 million by 2040, creating an urgent demand for senior-focused services. Downsizing, estate liquidation and transitions to care communities are increasingly common — and emotionally complex — events.
According to IBISWorld, the estate sales and senior relocation sector continues to grow, fueled by Baby Boomer retirements and multigenerational housing shifts.
Competitor Analysis
Caring Transitions stands out for its all-in-one service model, combining estate sales, relocation, and decluttering under one brand. Primary competitors include:
- Local estate sale companies
- Independent senior move managers
- Online auction platforms (non-franchise)
Few offer the turnkey approach, proprietary tools and trusted brand name Caring Transitions brings to the table.
7. What Is the Application Process for Caring Transitions Franchisees?
- Inquiry: Submit interest via the Caring Transitions franchise website.
- Intro Call: Speak with a franchise development manager to review goals and qualifications.
- FDD Review: Receive and review the Franchise Disclosure Document.
- Validation: Speak with current franchisees to understand day-to-day operations.
- Discovery Day: Attend an in-person or virtual Discovery Day with the corporate team.
- Agreement and Training: Sign the franchise agreement, pay the franchise fee, and begin training.
- Launch: Complete onboarding, marketing, and open for business with support from the CT team.
Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves.
Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained on this site constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.
All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the email constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.
LAST UPDATED: July 2025
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: caringtransitionsfranchise.com
1851 NEWSROOM: https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 400+
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $70,760 - $117,150
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $284,485 (average gross receipts for FY 2024)
Caring Transitions is the nation's leading provider of senior relocation, downsizing and estate sale services. The brand stands out for combining practical solutions with compassionate care, offering franchisees the opportunity to build a business that helps families during one of life’s most difficult transitions. Designed for semi-absentee or full-time operators, this turnkey service business offers flexibility, purpose, and the potential for high returns.
1. What Is the Brand Overview for Caring Transitions?
About the Brand
Caring Transitions was founded in 2006 to serve a growing need: seniors and their families needing support with downsizing, estate sales and transitions to assisted living. With aging Baby Boomers and increased demand for compassionate relocation services, the brand has grown to become the largest senior move management franchise in the United States.
Mission: To serve seniors and families with care, dignity, and respect during difficult life transitions.
Vision: To be the most trusted name in senior relocation and transition services nationwide.
Unique Selling Points (USPs):
- Comprehensive relocation, downsizing, and estate sale services in one package
- National recognition as a trusted senior services provider
- Proprietary online auction platform: CTBids
- Compassionate, client-first approach that builds community trust
- A turnkey service that appeals to both aging individuals and their families
2. What Are the Franchise Opportunity Details?
Why Franchise With Caring Transitions?
- Low overhead and fast ramp-up business model
- Recurring revenue potential through estate sales, auctions, and relocations
- Proven systems and processes honed over nearly 20 years
- Extensive initial and ongoing training
- Access to proprietary auction platform (CTBids) and digital tools
- Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives
Available Territories
According to the brand’s franchise website, franchisees can craft their own exclusive territories in the U.S. by “leveraging comprehensive market research and demographic analysis to ensure optimal market penetration and long-term success.”
For more information, candidates are invited to download Caring Transitions’ Franchise Opportunity Guide.
Investment Overview
Initial Costs: According to the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the estimated initial investment for a Caring Transitions franchise ranges from $70,760 to $117,150.
| Type of Expenditure | Min | Max |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $53,900 | $53,900 |
| Furniture & Equipment | $500 | $1,000 |
| Computer System | $1,000 | $3,000 |
| Training Travel & Expenses | $2,000 | $4,000 |
| Initial Rent, Telephone, Bank & Other Deposits | $350 | $2,000 |
| Additional Funds (6 Months) | $4,000 | $38,000 |
| Grand-Opening Promotion | $4,000 | $4,000 |
| Sales Employee | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Web Hosting Service | $100 | $100 |
| Monthly Office Rental Payment | $200 | $1,000 |
| Insurance | $2,000 | $4,000 |
| Certified Relocation Transition Specialist Training & Test | $650 | $3,000 |
| Membership & Association Fees | $500 | $500 |
| Estatesales.org Elite Package | $60 | $150 |
Initial Franchise Fee: The franchise fee for a territory with a population between 175,000 and 200,000 is $53,900, due upon signing the franchise agreement. If the population of a territory exceeds 200,000, franchisees must pay an additional $500 for every 1,000 people over.
Caring Transitions offers a discount of up to 10% for qualifying military veterans.
Ongoing Fees: According to the 2025 FDD, Caring Transitions franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing payments and fees:
| Type of Fee | Amount |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross receipts/month $300/month minimum for first 12 months $500/month minimum thereafter |
| National Branding Fee | 2% of gross receipts/month $350/month minimum |
| Local Marketing | Minimum of $399/month for first 12 months 4% of gross receipts/year thereafter |
ROI Potential: According to the 2025 FDD, the 253 franchises operating for the entirety of FY 2024 reported the following gross receipts:
| Quartile | Average | Median | Low | High |
| Top Quartile (63) | $606,166 | $572,549 | $359,444 | $2,549,600 |
| Second Quartile (63) | $275,970 | $269,961 | $202,811 | $358,069 |
| Third Quartile (63) | $150,813 | $152,485 | $112,127 | $200,604 |
| Bottom Quartile (64) | $55,717 | $57,630 | $4,625 | $111,848 |
| Total (253) | $284,485 | $202,811 | $4,625 | $2,549,600 |
3. What Franchisee Support Does Caring Transitions Provide?
Training Programs
Franchisees attend a five-day training program at corporate headquarters in Cincinnati, covering operations, marketing, sales, staffing and service delivery. Additional support is provided through online modules, webinars and ongoing coaching throughout the first year.
Operational Support
- Dedicated onboarding and launch coaching
- CTBids platform access and training
- Marketing playbooks and toolkits
- Business coaching and KPI tracking
- Peer network and annual conferences
Technology and Tools
- CTBids online estate sale and auction platform
- CRM and scheduling software
- Digital marketing systems and automation
- Website management and SEO tools
- Local landing pages for each territory
4. What Are the Franchise Requirements for Caring Transitions?
Eligibility Criteria
- Liquid Capital: $50,000
- Net Worth: $100,000
No prior industry experience required. Compassionate, organized, and community-minded individuals encouraged to apply.
Operational Commitments
- Full-time owner-operator or manager must be designated
- Semi-absentee ownership possible after full ramp-up and staffing
- Franchisee must complete training and participate in initial marketing launch
Funding Assistance
- SBA-eligible investment
- Franchise is listed on funding platforms like Guidant Financial and Benetrends
- Veterans discount programs and ROBS (retirement rollover) options available
5. Are There Franchisee Success Stories?
“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.” – Erin Schaeffer, franchisee.
“It had multiple revenue streams. So if the relocation portion is slow, maybe the downsizing side picks up. There are a lot of different areas to the business. As the market changes, we’re in a position to capitalize on that. I’m not just selling chicken fingers — it's a variety of services, and that was already built into the model.” – Marc Moore, franchisee.
6. What Is the Market Potential for Senior Services?
The U.S. population aged 65 and older is expected to reach 80 million by 2040, creating an urgent demand for senior-focused services. Downsizing, estate liquidation and transitions to care communities are increasingly common — and emotionally complex — events.
According to IBISWorld, the estate sales and senior relocation sector continues to grow, fueled by Baby Boomer retirements and multigenerational housing shifts.
Competitor Analysis
Caring Transitions stands out for its all-in-one service model, combining estate sales, relocation, and decluttering under one brand. Primary competitors include:
- Local estate sale companies
- Independent senior move managers
- Online auction platforms (non-franchise)
Few offer the turnkey approach, proprietary tools and trusted brand name Caring Transitions brings to the table.
7. What Is the Application Process for Caring Transitions Franchisees?
- Inquiry: Submit interest via the Caring Transitions franchise website.
- Intro Call: Speak with a franchise development manager to review goals and qualifications.
- FDD Review: Receive and review the Franchise Disclosure Document.
- Validation: Speak with current franchisees to understand day-to-day operations.
- Discovery Day: Attend an in-person or virtual Discovery Day with the corporate team.
- Agreement and Training: Sign the franchise agreement, pay the franchise fee, and begin training.
- Launch: Complete onboarding, marketing, and open for business with support from the CT team.
Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves.
Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained on this site constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.
All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the email constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.
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