Bill and Marilyn Collier own a MaidPro franchise in Pelham, Alabama that they purchased in 2009. They sat down with Franchise Business Review to talk about their franchising experience with MaidPro.
What was it about the franchise model and/or leadership that led you to purchase it?
We were looking for something we could do together. We were interested in a service business, a recurring revenue model, and we loved the idea of providing for our community. The home office staff at MaidPro were really the ones that sold us on the franchise. They are cutting edge, smart and very friendly. The business plan was solid and we knew that they would be there to support us every step of the way (which they did and still continue to do!)
What type of business experience, education, and/or skills did you have prior to becoming a franchisee that you have found particularly helpful?
We were both in leadership/management roles prior to owning our MaidPro. I (Marilyn) had a strong background in financing and Bill has great people skills, so we felt that our strengths were compatible for us to work together. The funny part is that I ended up loving the people end of the business and Bill ended up doing a lot of the behind the scenes work! Now, our daughter gets to join us in managing our business!
What do you like most about your job?
We really loved growing the business and interacting with our customers. We do not do that as much now because we have grown so significantly, but we still enjoy reading the feedback and seeing how we are helping people take care of their homes and giving families more time to do the things they enjoy. Bill loves making sure our equipment is in top condition and having flexibility and freedom, which he had very little of in his previous jobs. He is wonderful at conflict solving and we lean heavily on his wisdom in handling the tough issues that come up.
How did you fund your franchise? Did you receive any discounts/incentives?
We ended up funding our business with our own retirement money. We invested in ourselves and because of that, we are debt free. We love this and now have the financial stability to create a lifestyle we love.
What advice do you have for prospective franchise buyers? What do you wish you had known prior to going into franchising?
Our advice to prospective franchise buyers is to really lean on the knowledge and advice of the home office. We both wish we would have opened our business sooner instead of waiting until we were 58! It has been a wonderful experience. We love owning our own business with MaidPro, the greatest franchisor a person could hope for.
If you'd like to learn more about MaidPro franchise opportunities call 888-624-3776 or visit www.maidprofranchise.com.
