Purchasing and operating carpet care franchises offers several advantages over new start up businesses that provide carpet cleaning services. An existing carpet care company has an established name and brand, a business plan that has been tried and tested and the ability to offer ongoing support from the franchiser. The franchiser will have already done the ground work for the business, so you will not have to start from square one.

Starting your own franchise branch of a carpet care business involves a good deal of time, money and effort. You must be sure the franchise you are considering is right for you. There are many things you should consider before investing in carpet cleaning franchises, including:

1. What costs should you expect, such as purchasing fees, marketing expenses, royalties and inventory.

2. Does the franchise have a name or brand that is commonly recognized by people in your area?

3. How many employees will need to be hired and trained to properly care and clean carpeting?

4. Will the franchiser help you find a good location for the business?

5. How many guidelines and stipulations will the franchiser expect you to conform to?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Work with a consultant to help you determine if a carpet care franchise is right for you

A franchise consultant assists you in investigating whether or not purchasing a franchise will benefit you, and explains how to get started once you've decided to make the investment in a carpet care company.

I recommend: The consultants at FranNet or the Franchise Buyers Network will guide you through the process of purchasing a carpet cleaning franchise.

Locate carpet care franchise opportunities

There are many carpet cleaning businesses available. Find the one that best suits your needs, skills and budget.

I recommend: Investigate well known carpet care companies such as Chem-Dry, Carpet Network or VonSchrader Company to find out if their franchise opportunities are right for you. Review the listings for a variety of available carpet cleaning franchises at Franchise Opportunities LLC.

Hire a lawyer to guide you through the process of investing in a carpet care franchise opportunity

A lawyer will help you to understand the contract that you must sign with the franchiser and explain all the legal obligations you will have after making the purchase.

I recommend: Receive advice and help from the franchise law experts at the Law Offices of Nancy L. Lanard or the Franchise Law Team.

Confer with an accountant before establishing a carpet cleaning business opportunity investment

A certified public accountant will investigate the financial history of any franchise you are considering, explain the expenses involved in the purchase and help you understand your long-term earning potential.

I recommend: Find an accountant at TheAccountingPlanet.com or AccountantsWorld who will help you understand the financial aspects of a carpet care franchise.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find out if franchises are regulated by your state government, and if so, in what ways.
• •  Investigate the annual growth rate of the carpet care franchise opportunity you are considering.