The Top 10 Brands To Invest in as a First-Time Franchisee

First-time franchisees tend to find the most success within concepts that offer strong support systems, require a smaller initial investment, and emphasize industries or areas of expertise in which the franchisee has previously operated.

There are many considerations to make, as a franchise is a substantial investment, but these are some of the most important:

• Cost: Is the franchise concept you’re looking at affordable? First-time business owners may be less capitalized than experienced entrepreneurs, so lower-cost options will be more attainable and will potentially bring a quicker return on investment.
• Support: Will the franchisor support you? The franchise model is so appealing because the systems are provided, so the franchisee has a bit of a leg up. If you have never franchised before, be sure to ask plenty of questions about the support the franchisor will offer.
• Demand: Are you setting yourself up for success? It is smart to invest in a concept that has a strong customer base or lends itself to increasing demand. Though niche concepts are not impossible to grow or succeed with, more strategy may be required.
• Lifestyle: What type of franchise will fit with your lifestyle? First-time franchisees should seek a model that aligns with their personal values and expectations, including their personal passions, previous professional experience and scheduling preferences.

These 10 franchises are a great starting point for first-time owners.

Cruise Planners

The initial investment to open a Cruise Planners business is low — sometimes under $10,000. Because you can operate the business out of the home, both startup and ongoing costs are lower, and the business model offers a bit more flexibility.

Property Management Inc.

The demand within the property management space is high. Though the initial investment for a Property Management business is higher than some other concepts, first-time franchisees can break into an incredibly lucrative market. The concept also offers technology, training and ongoing support to help owners succeed.

Lil’ Kickers

Lil’ Kickers is a soccer program for young children. The brand can be launched in as little as eight weeks, meaning franchisees can begin to recoup the initial investment pretty quickly. Another major advantage is the brand’s flexibility. Rather than requiring franchisees to own a facility, Lil’ Kickers simply requires the franchisee to have “year-round access to an open space to run classes, such as an outdoor field, indoor field or gym.”

Pillar to Post Home Inspectors

Pillar to Post specifically promotes itself as a great opportunity for “young entrepreneurs.” The franchisor provides guidance as investors work to become licensed home inspectors, as well as training on team management and brand guidelines. Startup costs can be as low as $44,285, and franchisees receive protected territories. 

i9 Sports

This is another youth athletics opportunity. Because it largely aligns with young children's school schedules, it can be a great opportunity for first-time franchisees who are parents or expect to have children in the future. And because the concept can be run out of the house, both initial and ongoing costs are relatively low.

Screenmobile

Screenmobile is a mobile screen concept that works on screen doors, windows, porches and other enclosed spaces. This concept offers two key differentiators. Because it is a mobile concept, franchisees do not have to worry about the cost of a retail space, and the home services market is consistently growing. In many cases, something like a broken door or window will be a top priority for a homeowner to fix, so franchisees should expect consistent revenue.

The UPS Store

Though The UPS Store is a big-name brand, first-time franchisees should not necessarily be intimidated out of the investment. With a big name and years of success comes a remarkable amount of expertise. The franchisor also offers considerations for businesses in rural areas and owners who are women, veterans, retirees and diverse populations.

Snap Fitness

This is one of the many 24/7 fitness club concepts. But as a franchisor, it sets itself apart from the rest. Fitness centers do not have the strongest reputation and are sometimes recognized as expensive to start yet prone to fail. Snap Fitness, however, works to support franchisees in choosing prime locations to promote success while keeping costs down.

Pet Butler

As long as there are pets, pet waste is a guarantee. A Pet Butler business has a low initial investment and is great for people who love pets. On the practical side, it is a business with a nearly guaranteed demand. The concept also offers experienced business consultants, a network of supportive business owners and proven operating systems to support franchisees in their growth.

Merry Maids

Merry Maids is a house cleaning concept with an initial investment as low as $94,480. With proprietary cleaning methods, Merry Maids offers a unique twist on a classic service, allowing owners to leverage consistent demand to grow their business. The brand’s website positions it as “a franchise opportunity that lets you be more” and communicates that the franchisor’s team is dedicated to helping owners find success and build a better future.