The allure of franchise ownership is undeniable for many professionals looking to transition from a six-figure career to running their own business. Owning a franchise can provide a unique blend of entrepreneurial independence and a proven support system. In industries like pet care—a $145 billion market that continues to grow even during economic downturns—the opportunity to step into an existing franchise can be particularly compelling.
One recent example is Yohann and Maria Connell’s acquisition of a Pet Butler franchise in Seattle, Washington. As one of the leading pet care franchises in the U.S., Pet Butler’s 35-year history and presence in 28 states make it a sought-after business for aspiring entrepreneurs.
So how do you evaluate a franchise resale to ensure it’s the right opportunity for you?
Here are the top five questions to ask when considering buying an existing franchise:
1. Why Is the Current Owner Selling?
Understanding the seller’s motivations is essential. Are they retiring, relocating, or moving on to other ventures? Or are there deeper issues, such as declining revenue or operational challenges? Transparency is key to determining whether the franchise aligns with your goals. For Yohann and Maria Connell, the transfer of the Pet Butler franchise wasn’t just a business transaction. As Pet Butler’s Vice President of Business Development, Mark Potocki, explains:
“With a resale like this, it is not just about transferring ownership—it is about starting a new legacy of growth, opportunity, and a solid foundation for the next chapter of the Connells’ success. Yohann’s background and attention to detail as a software engineer, combined with Maria’s passion for pets and connection to the community, make the Connells a tremendous resource for animal lovers needing pet services in the community.”
Understanding the current owner’s story can help you identify whether the business fits your own strengths and aspirations.
2. What Are the Financials and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)?
Before purchasing any business, you need a clear picture of its financial health. Request detailed profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and tax returns from the last three to five years. In addition, investigate KPIs such as customer retention rates, average transaction value, and market share. For a business in the pet care industry, recurring revenue streams, like subscription-based services, can be a strong indicator of stability.
Pet Butler’s longstanding reputation and robust franchise support systems have made it one of the most recognizable names in pet care. Knowing the franchise’s history and the local market’s potential is crucial to assessing whether it’s a smart investment.
3. What Support and Training Does the Franchisor Offer?
A major advantage of franchise ownership is the built-in support from the franchisor. For Pet Butler, this includes comprehensive training, marketing resources, and operational guidance. Ensure that the franchisor’s support aligns with your needs and goals.
Ask specific questions, such as:
- What initial training will I receive?
- How does the franchisor support ongoing marketing efforts?
- Are there mentorship opportunities with other franchisees?
The Connells, for example, benefit from Pet Butler’s decades of experience, which allows them to focus on growing their business while leveraging proven systems.
4. What Is the Condition of the Business’s Assets and Contracts?
From physical equipment to customer contracts, it’s important to evaluate what you’re inheriting. In the pet care industry, assets might include vehicles for transportation, software for scheduling and billing, and established customer accounts. Consider:
- Are the assets in good condition?
- Are there existing contracts with customers or suppliers?
- Are there any legal or compliance issues tied to the business?
By conducting thorough due diligence, you can identify any potential red flags before finalizing the purchase.
5. What Are the Opportunities for Growth?
Every entrepreneur dreams of taking a business to the next level. When evaluating a franchise resale, look for untapped growth opportunities. This might include expanding service areas, introducing new products, or leveraging digital marketing to attract more customers.
For the Connells, the Seattle market provides significant room for expansion, given the high demand for pet care services in the area. Yohann’s background as a software engineer allows the couple to streamline operations, while Maria’s passion for pets creates authentic connections with clients.
Why Consider the Pet Care Industry for Your Franchise Business?
The pet care industry is booming and offers unique advantages for franchise owners. Pets are considered family members in many households, and spending on pet services has proven to be recession-resistant. Pet Butler’s franchise model capitalizes on this demand, offering services ranging from dog walking to waste cleanup—essential services that busy pet owners need.
Founded in 1988, Pet Butler has become a trusted name in pet care. Its strategic partners benefit from a recognized brand, extensive training, and a dedicated support center. With franchises in 28 states, the company continues to grow, making it a solid choice for aspiring business owners.
Conclusion
Buying an existing franchise opportunity is an excellent way to step into business ownership with a head start. However, due diligence is essential. By asking the right questions and leveraging the support of a trusted franchisor like Pet Butler, you can position yourself for success in a growing industry.
If you’re ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship in 2025, consider exploring franchise resale opportunities within the pet care industry. With the right preparation and a passion for growth, you could be the next success story, just like the Connells in Seattle.
