Home Based Franchises

Home based franchises involve buying into an established business concept, where much of the research and marketing have already been done for you.

These business franchise opportunities are usually operated under a single "major name". The public sees the name and common business style and often has no idea that individual franchises are owner operated.

The price of entry can range from a few pounds to well over a million! Here are some types of franchise ...

Pet foods
Carpet cleaning
Window cleaning
Domestic cleaning
Learning and education
Insurance
Lawncare
Debt management
Printer cartridges
Greetings cards
Fast food
Nutrition
Tyre fitting
Wedding planners

Because of the costs involved, and the time commitment required, most home based franchises are probably better suited to the pre-retirement age group - perhaps someone facing redundancy or seeking a career change. Also the financial risks they present require very detailed research.

If you are considering a home based business franchise then you need to ask yourself...

Is this a job and lifestyle I want to work at the for the next x number of years?

If you are sure that the answer is YES, that the concept fills you with enthusiasm, then you need to do your research "on the ground". For example, how large will the are you work in be guaranteed? You don't want to find you are in direct competition with other people running the same franchise - it does happen!

Next, try to meet one or two people who already run similar franchises. Ask how it is working out for them, how good the training was, how supportive the company backup has been and of course, whether the franchising income was anything like they had expected.

If everything checks out and you really are convinced that home-based franchises are worth looking into further then it's time to take legal and accountancy advice. This can be expensive but outside professional advice is essential because your advisers will be looking at completely different areas of the business proposition - they are your insurance policy against too much enthusiasm!

Unlike most of our business suggestions, a franchise requires a long-term commitment and often, a substantial financial investment. You need to get it right first time!