One of the most common reasons for pursuing franchise ownership is a desire to be one’s own boss. The freedom and flexibility that come with being your own boss are highly sought after, especially for people who have spent years, or even decades, operating under someone else’s terms. While that freedom comes with great responsibility, it’s often noted by established franchisees as one of the best aspects of ownership. Mary Steele, who owns Fresh Coat Painters of Melbourne in Florida, is a prime example of just how freeing franchise ownership can be.

“After many years of working for someone else, I just got burned out on it,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to be a small business owner. Owning my own business gives me the opportunity to create a legacy for myself and my family. I know that 100% of the effort and grit that goes into it is going to return to me. It’s not building the bottom line for someone else.”

Knowing that her effort directly benefits her business and her future is a driving force for Steele on a day-to-day basis. 

The Fresh Coat franchise model is flexible and allows franchisees to structure their days as they see fit. For some prospective owners, the idea of working for themselves is both exciting and concerning. There is no “boss” there to make sure you show up and complete the necessary tasks to grow the business. You are the boss. 

For Steele, this isn’t an issue at all. In fact, it may be one of the best parts of ownership.

“The most rewarding part of ownership has been setting my own schedule,” she said. “I decide which groups I want to connect with in terms of chambers of commerce or BNI networking groups. Then I’m able to show up for myself with a great brand behind me. I’m getting the Fresh Coat name out in the community. That’s been the most exciting.”

On a daily basis, Steele connects with Sherwin-Williams managers and identifies painters to work with. She may call painting teams to see if they want to partner with her, or she’ll reach out to her sphere of influence to see if there are any new project opportunities available. While the exact details may vary day to day, Steele is consistently working to get her name out in the community and continue making connections as she works to make Fresh Coat a household name.

The Fresh Coat model is built on leadership and connections. Franchise owners are not expected to be the ones doing the painting all day, every day. Rather, they’re responsible for building and leading teams, networking, increasing business visibility and working to ensure customer satisfaction. Because of this, the business is naturally flexible. 

Whether it’s going to your kid’s baseball game on a Tuesday afternoon or choosing to start work a bit later one morning, the business is in your hands, and it can likely be molded to fit your lifestyle.

“Mary is a prime example of how the flexibility of franchise ownership can be used for good,” said Lisa Hudson, brand president. “She is in control of her days, and she takes control, each and every day, to focus on the actions that will drive success for her and her business. Fresh Coat can truly fit into any lifestyle because it’s less about the specific hours you work and more about what you do with them.”

As she grows, Steele continues to rely on her own drive while drawing guidance, support and feedback from the franchise system and her fellow entrepreneurs.

“When I glance in the rearview mirror, more than anything, I think, ‘I should’ve stepped away sooner,’” she said. “And I say that only because everything that I’ve experienced so far has put me on the trajectory for growth. I’m building my business. I’m being introduced to people who are helping pave the way for me to make those strides toward progress. I have no regrets. I’m glad I chose Fresh Coat, and I’m looking forward to the future.”

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info.