How Long Does It Take to Open a Franchise? A General Timeline for First-Time Owners
Daniel Hayes
So, you have decided that you want to get into the franchise business. That’s GREAT! Now you’re probably wondering how long will it actually take to buy a franchise and open the doors?
Most new franchisees are eager to open the doors of their new business so they can finally fulfill their dream of being their own boss. But, like anything else, great things take time. Unfortunately, you can’t open your restaurant in the blink of an eye. Opening a franchise requires a significant amount of upfront work.
There is no exact time frame of when you buy and open a franchise, but we can give you an idea of what that time frame might look like.
Why Open a Franchise?
Franchising is becoming an increasingly popular option for aspiring entrepreneurs. It offers a streamlined and less risky path to business ownership, as franchises provide established systems, brand recognition, comprehensive training, and ongoing support. These popular attributes are evident, as it’s predicted that by the end of 2025, the number of franchise establishments will increase by more than 20,000 units, or 2.5%, to 851,000 total units.
Rising Franchise Opportunities
Curious about the fastest-growing franchise sectors in 2025? Health and wellness franchises are gaining traction, offering not only physical fitness but also mental health and well-being. Fast food remains popular in both the casual and specialty food sectors.

As more baby boomers prepare to retire and an increasing number of retirees prefer to remain in their homes, the senior care market is expected to continue growing. Lastly, pet owners are increasingly looking for daycare and specialty services for their four-legged friends.
How Long Does It Take to Buy and Open a Franchise?
The journey to franchise ownership takes considerable planning and a structured approach. This section covers the steps involved, from the initial search for the perfect franchise to the grand opening, and provides a realistic timeline for each step.
Finding the Right Franchise
Approximate time: All up to you!
Finding the right franchise can take quite a bit of time, depending on where you are in the process. If you have your mindset on a particular franchise, you will have a lot less work to do compared to someone just beginning to explore. But remember- you want to explore all your options!
Doing Research
Approximate time: 2 to 4 weeks
Once you have found the right franchise, you will need to complete some tasks before purchasing it. You should spend a couple of weeks calling different franchise owners to get an idea of what it’s like being a franchisee. This is a part of the process that you don’t want to skip, as it provides a clear understanding of what to expect.
Obtaining Financing Documentation
Approximate time: 2 to 4 weeks
Before meeting with a franchisor, gather all your financial information. Financing documentation can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on your situation. If you’re borrowing from a bank, this can take a bit more time, but if you have your own savings or are borrowing from friends or family, the process will be faster.
Working with an Attorney
Approximate time: 2 weeks
Before signing anything, you will want an attorney to look over the paperwork to give you a thorough review of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD.) At this point, you will want to address any red flags you see in the document.
Franchisor Negotiations
Approximate time: 2 weeks
Once you have a clear understanding of the FDD, you may spend some time negotiating with the franchisor to ensure both parties are satisfied with the final agreement.
Opening the Doors!
Approximate Time: Varies
Every franchise is unique in terms of the time it takes to open a business. For instance, small restaurants will take less time than large senior care services. We can’t provide an exact number, but typically, the building process takes 6 to 12 months to complete.
Is Franchising a Good Investment?
The short answer: yes! Franchises follow proven business models with excellent earning potential that are time-tested and often have all the kinks worked out by the franchisor before you sign on the dotted line. Brand recognition and a pre-existing customer base mean a franchisee doesn’t need to invest considerable time and resources in building brand awareness, and customers should pass through the doors on day one.
You’ll have access to a network of fellow franchises for peer support and comprehensive and ongoing training from franchisors who succeed when you succeed. If you’re seeking a structured business model and can follow established (and successful) systems, owning a franchise would be a great fit.
Hundred Acre Consulting—By Your Side Every Step of the Way
It might seem like getting started takes a long time, but it’s really a small price to pay. While your franchise is getting ready to open, work with our team at Hundred Acre Consulting to develop a strategy that will help you start strong once those doors finally open.
The franchise industry can seem intimidating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Contact us to learn more.
Explore the different salon franchise models and decide which makes sense for you. Learn why beauty businesses remain one of the most resilient sectors today.
One of the most important decisions you'll make is whether to pursue a single- or multi-unit franchise model. Each offers advantages depending on your long-term vision.
Dreaming of being your own boss, but not sure where to begin? Franchise ownership might be the answer. With built-in brand recognition, proven systems, and lower risk than starting from scratch, it’s no wonder more people are choosing franchising as their path to financial freedom in 2025. Find out why here.
When running a traditional franchise, it’s widely believed that it must be a full-time commitment. This may not appeal to entrepreneurs looking to make a little extra cash on the side. However, another option is semi-absentee franchises that boast short, flexible hours, allowing you to keep your day job or favorite hobbies—all while creating passive income. Learn more about what to look for and where to find these opportunities here.
The growing popularity of heat pumps in the United States reflects a shift toward energy-efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions for residential and commercial spaces. With their ability to address heating, cooling, and air quality needs, heat pumps have become indispensable in modern living. However, maintaining their efficiency and benefits requires professional cleaning services, such as those provided by Vermont’s own We Clean Heat Pumps.
Are you considering investing your time in a franchise but don’t want to be “all in”? A semi-absentee model may be just right for you as it’s one that can be started and run while still maintaining other obligations. Learn more here.
Do you love working with youth? Are you business savvy? The array of kid-friendly franchises available to the entrepreneur is incredible. As parents continue to focus on the well-being of their children, business opportunities to answer that demand are continuing to grow. Learn more about all the exciting possibilities here.
Eco-friendly franchises are on the rise! In 2025, the preference for eco-friendly brands and sustainable products is reshaping consumer markets and driving significant changes within the franchise industry. Franchises are adapting to meet these demands by offering new brands and models that prioritize sustainability. To explore these eco-friendly opportunities, read more here.
Retirement: beach…travel…grandkids…and everything in between, right? Then you wake up and wonder if there will be enough money for all of this. “What was I thinking? I cannot afford this!” Will you be ready? Find out here, plus get a practical list of steps to help make your retirement dreams a reality.
Becoming a franchise owner offers a desirable path for new entrepreneurs by offering access to established and successful business models. One considerable factor for pursuing this career path is understanding a franchise’s earnings potential. The answer to the question, “How much does a franchise owner make?” is quite complex and depends on several variables: The specific type of franchise. The chosen ownership structure. The capital needed for overhead expenses. This article will cover what is considered “average” for franchise owner earnings, which industries offer the highest income potential, and how the type of ownership model can influence income. What is the Average Net Income of Franchise Owners? The average net income of franchise owners can vary widely. According to a study conducted by ZipRecruiter , franchise owners earn an average annual income of a little over $125,000. It’s vital to note that this figure encompasses a broad range of franchise types and operational models. Some franchise owners report earning significantly more, while others may find their income levels below this average. Franchise Industries with the Highest Earning Potential Some franchise industries , in particular, are recognized as yielding higher average net incomes. Some of these include: Food and Beverage: This sector encompasses the fast food and casual dining franchises and produces substantial revenue due to high product demand and continuous foot traffic. Franchisees can earn between $100,000 and $200,000 a year or more. Health and Fitness: Wellness and physical health continue to trend in today’s market, making franchises like gyms and wellness centers very profitable. Owners in this industry typically earn around $85,000 to $150,000 yearly. Business Services: The demand for business services such as financial and marketing consulting remains high, making this sector a high-income possibility. Franchisees in this sector are looking at incomes of $90,000 to $150,000 annually. Types of Ownership and How They Impact Earnings How a franchise is run and how many units an owner has to manage are important factors when it comes to earnings potential. Consider the ownership variables below when balancing profitability with scalability. Owner-Operator vs Semi-Absentee Ownership The operational model of the franchise can significantly impact earnings. Owner-operators are franchise owners who are actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the business. This hands-on approach can lead to higher profitability as the owner is directly managing costs, staffing, and customer relations. Owner-operators typically see higher net incomes due to their intimate involvement in the business.
Franchising has proven to be an incredibly successful business model for countless entrepreneurs, offering structure, support, and a proven system for achieving success. For veterans, the franchise model can be particularly appealing, as it aligns closely with the disciplined and strategic approach they have honed during their military service. Learn more—plus read the exact steps to get started as a franchisee here.
Have you recently fired your boss? Fear not. The decision to leave traditional employment and venture into entrepreneurship is a significant and exhilarating milestone. It’s a choice that symbolizes freedom, independence, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Check out all the compelling reasons why franchising just may be the perfect next step for you.
In full transparency, being a franchisee requires hard work and resilience. We’re discussing the day-to-day experiences of being a full-time franchisee. While the idea of investing consistent hours each week might feel unnerving, remember that this is a fulfilling career choice, and the payoff for your effort and commitment is substantial. Find out what "a day in the office" as a franchisee looks like.
The franchise industry presents a compelling solution to Gen Z’s entrepreneurial desires, offering a blend of security, support, financial accessibility, and flexibility. With a proven track record, strong brand identity, and a supportive community, franchising empowers Gen Z to
pursue their entrepreneurial dreams with confidence and creativity.
Dreaming of building more flexibility into your work/life balance—without sacrificing massive amounts of time and money? Semi-absentee franchise ownership may be the answer you didn’t know you were looking for. Learn what your role entails, some of the best semi-absentee industries, and exactly how to get started.
About 30 years ago, it became commonplace for many franchise brokers to refer to themselves as consultants to evade the stigma surrounding the term “broker.” However, in dodging the negative connotations often associated with brokers, they wound up creating confusion within the franchising community. So … what is the difference between a consultant vs. a broker? Check out our latest blog to find out.
Whether you are looking to complement your day job or diversify your investment portfolio, owning a laundromat franchise is an excellent option to consider. Learn what makes this such a great opportunity for those seeking a rewarding semi-absentee business—including lesser-known benefits—all in our latest blog.
Five years after the pandemic, franchise leaders are afforded the unique opportunity of looking back and evaluating the data to determine which franchises have best survived—and thrived—through the tumult. Savvy investors can use these insights to confidently determine the durability and agility of these companies.
Check out our list of 10 of the best franchises to own in 2025 (that we consider standout opportunities) in our latest blog.
What attributes differentiate the master franchise model from other options? Why is it an exceptionally sought-after choice for entrepreneurs and investors alike? While other franchise models afford specific benefits such as “best for new investors” or “most flexibility in a specific geographic region,” master franchise models stand unparalleled for growth and profitability in several key areas. In this overview, we’ll examine six key financial and operational benefits to master franchising as a passive income strategy, so you can decide if this model is the most suitable addition to your portfolio.
Many aspiring business owners are drawn to franchise ownership for its higher success rates, thanks to specialized support, a recognizable brand, and an established business system. However, running a franchise still presents challenges. Many new franchisees are unaware of additional resources available for support, such as financing options, educational opportunities, or consulting with a franchise expert.
Ready to take the plunge into business ownership? Here are 3 reasons for aspiring entrepreneurs to choose a franchise for their first business venture.
Are you a budding veteran entrepreneur? Here are three franchise opportunities that offer incentives for a veteran business owner.
When franchising, many investors think first of huge chain businesses. But here are a few of the benefits of franchising with a smaller company.
As a Certified Franchise Consultant (CFT), I assist clients in understanding the franchise industry and reaching their business ownership aspirations. My clients benefit from my advice, education, and coaching services. I introduce them to businesses that align with their backgrounds and ambitions, helping them determine whether becoming a franchisee will help them achieve their goals and is suitable for them personally. The mission of Hundred Acre Consulting is to promote community and economic development by aiding families and individuals in achieving their dreams of business ownership. I do that by starting with a portfolio exceeding 800 franchised brands across 78 industries. Hundred Acre Consulting is a comprehensive, certified franchise consulting and referral firm serving clients in the United States, Canada, and 80 countries around the world. My approach is unique as I focus on my clients’ lifestyle goals and financial objectives. I assist my clients in evaluating whether franchising is a viable option to meet their absolute goals and objectives, and if so, which business models would be most effective. For me, understanding the client's reasons comes first, followed by how they can achieve their goals, and finally, what the business does. I began consulting in the nonprofit, entertainment, and franchising sectors in early 2008. Since 1983, I have been coaching emerging and established enterprises and organizations in both the private and public sectors, focusing on business development and contributing to economic and community growth.
Considering franchising? You might be debating between a popular mega-brand or a smaller company. Most investors choose franchises for the well-known brand name, which reduces risk and offers a proven business model while allowing them to run their own business.
While some enjoy winter days by the fireplace, others see it as a time to invest in a lucrative franchise. The holiday season offers great opportunities to boost income. Some franchises thrive in winter, while many succeed year-round. If you're thinking of investing this winter, consult a franchise expert who knows the industry. They can help find a business that fits your needs and skills. Unsure about starting a franchise now? Here are some profitable winter-friendly franchise ideas.
Consider the advantages of owning your own business: the ability to act as your own boss, set your schedule, and exercise control over both your financial stability and lifestyle. This goal is attainable. It is not an unrealistic aspiration or reserved for others alone.
There are numerous franchise opportunities available for prospective investors, including notable options from the Franchise 500 list. At Hundred Acre Consulting, our mission is to assist you in identifying the franchise that aligns perfectly with your individual objectives as you strive for an enhanced quality of life for yourself and your community. How can we ensure that we are the ideal partner for this mission?
When individuals become franchise owners, one of the primary benefits they expect is operating under an established brand name. While this is generally true, it is still necessary to develop a comprehensive and brand-consistent marketing strategy for the franchise. Although being a marketing expert is not required, understanding the marketing basics is essential for a franchise owner. The most effective marketing strategy for a franchise depends on the specific industry, so it may be beneficial to discuss methods to expand the customer base with the franchisor or a knowledgeable franchise consultant.
If you’ve chosen to start your entrepreneurial journey as a franchisee, you might have many questions regarding your potential business and its requirements. Franchises provide certain advantages over starting a new business independently, such as having support from a franchisor. Unlike a new business that lacks a track record, franchises come with established and proven business models, along with franchisors who assist in setting up and operating the business effectively. Before finalizing your decision, here are four questions you should ask your prospective franchisor.
Dreaming of starting your own business? Finding the proper franchise involves evaluating different options and considering the potential in various industries. However, the financing and logistics of making your vision a reality require careful planning. It is important to consider every detail. If you are struggling to determine which business opportunity aligns with your skills and financial situation, consider consulting a franchise consultant. Experienced in the industry, they can help you identify the right franchise and guide you through obtaining financing for your new business venture.
When considering becoming self-employed, one might contemplate whether to develop a startup or invest in an existing franchise. So, what is a franchise? A franchise involves a company (franchisor) granting an individual (franchisee) the right to operate a branch of their business. This permission is provided for a specific area and comes with guidelines to ensure brand consistency is maintained.
Prospective business owners should decide whether to start a new company or invest in a franchise. While buying a franchise offers established operations, it doesn't ensure success. Starting a business from scratch has an even higher failure rate. To reduce risks, seek advice from an experienced franchise consultant who can help identify the best opportunities.
Potential investors often focus on the earning potential of franchising but must also consider the risks. Franchisees should be ready to face challenges. Consulting with a knowledgeable franchise expert can help you understand the benefits and risks, enabling an informed investment decision.
W hen most people consider the franchise opportunities available to them, the first thing they imagine is a generic Dunkin’ Donuts or Subway. While those options may be the best for some entrepreneurs, others might prefer to own something with a bit of personality. If you’re a member of the latter group, it’s recommended that you meet with an experienced franchise consultant who can help you find the perfect franchise that matches your interests and goals. There are franchise opportunities for potential franchisees of every personality type and from all walks of life. The possibilities are endless! Here are a few unique franchise opportunities for people who think outside the box.
G iven that the median age of all franchise owners is between the ages of 45 and 54, many younger people are left wondering, “Am I too young to be a franchise owner?” But contrary to popular belief, becoming a franchise owner at a young age has distinct benefits. Most millennials don’t have experience running a business or a robust network of entrepreneurial social connections, making it hard for them to strike out on their own. Owning a franchise can provide support in these areas, already packaged with policies, processes, and networks that young investors might otherwise lack. In addition, franchises have lower startup costs, making them an investment with the potential to serve you for years to come.
Y ou’ve finally signed the paperwork, and you’re officially a franchise owner. Or perhaps, you’re still in the process of discussing franchise opportunities with a franchise consultant. Either way, you should know that your first year in business as a franchise owner won’t be easy. Franchisors might try to tell you that it’s smooth sailing in the beginning, but the first year of franchise ownership is generally the most difficult. It will take time for you to grow a consistent customer base, the work hours will be long, and retaining staff will be challenging. 
C reatives often shy away from franchise opportunities, assuming that these businesses will limit their ability to explore new ideas and express themselves. At a glance, this concern seems valid since franchisors are known to have strict policies and procedures. These stringent regulations determine elements like the internal workings of the franchise and how it should go about marketing. 
F or potential investors, owning mobile franchises can be a dream come true. You get all the benefits of operating your business under an established brand name while forgoing the challenges that come with running a brick-and-mortar franchise. When most people think of a mobile franchise, the first thing that comes to mind is owning a food truck. However, food trucks aren’t your only option —there are plenty of profitable mobile franchises across various industries. If food service doesn’t suit your style, here are a few popular mobile franchises that may provide a better fit for you.
Many people know what it’s like to receive a message from a long-lost high school classmate asking if you’re interested in “learning more about their business.” You click on their profile, and it’s full of posts proclaiming that they love running their business because it allows them to make money working part-time while selling products that they actually use.
A s a self-care staple, beauty treatments are essential to the mental health and wellbeing of people from all walks of life. Herein lie lucrative franchise opportunities for eager investors ready to run a beauty business from the comfort of their own homes. Studies predict that the beauty industry will expand to a market value of $805.61 billion by 2023. So if you love caring for people and providing them with a confidence boost, now is the perfect time to invest in beauty franchises. As technology evolves, the beauty industry is following, making franchising more achievable than ever before. To start your journey, here are a few beauty franchises that you can run from home in 2021.
W ithin the past year, the e-commerce industry has grown exponentially. Of course, this leaves potential investors wondering, is it still worth it to invest in a traditional brick-and-mortar franchise? The answer is yes. Brick-and-mortar franchising has distinct advantages that online franchise opportunities will never be capable of offering. Owning a conventional storefront allows you to service your customers in real-time and build a personal relationship that keeps them coming back. Even with online shopping, providing your customers with a fun, in-person shopping experience will always be in demand. If you’re looking at franchises for sale, it’s still worth considering the traditional route before hopping on the e-commerce bandwagon. Specifically, here are four benefits of brick-and-mortar franchising.
B y 2025, America will require a staggering 2.3 million new healthcare workers to care for the senior population. With this will also come the need for more senior care facilities. If you’re considering senior care franchising, starting your business now can put you in a prime position to take advantage of the coming boom. Owning a senior care franchise is a great way to make a meaningful impact on the lives of older people while securing your financial future. With strategic planning, a solid team, and a supportive franchisor, you can turn senior care franchising into a stream of passive income that keeps on giving. Here are a few tips to point you in the right direction.
T he franchise industry is stepping into the future. Currently, millennials are aged 25 to 40 and comprise over 28% of franchise owners. So what does this mean for franchising as we know it? Millennials look for very different qualities in the franchises they choose to invest in, and they possess a leadership style that contrasts that of prior generations. As they come into their own, millennials are rapidly reshaping franchise ownership with advances in innovation and technology, all while creating a sense of connectedness within their businesses.
If you dream of helping the elderly by owning a senior care facility, the opportunities are ample. In fact, the healthcare industry provides some of the most stable options for potential franchise owners. The percentage of older people in America is increasing every day, with experts predicting that the senior population will grow to 22% by the year 2050.
While everybody else is relaxing and partying this summer, you could be making extra income with the right seasonal franchise. For some franchises, the best time to start building your clientele is during the summer because they are only profitable when it’s hot outside. Each franchise has different start-up requirements, but there’s a lot more to choosing the right franchise than the cost. The franchise you choose must be in alignment with your skillset, knowledge, and personality. So, which of these best seasonal franchises is right for you?
Within the past year, mobile franchising has grown in popularity exponentially. For one thing, new investors realize that it’s much easier to succeed with a franchise than to start their own business from scratch. Add in the low start-up costs and flexibility of self-employment, and it’s easy to see why people are interested in this type of investment opportunity. However, there are two sides to every coin, and running a mobile franchise has a few pitfalls. It’s draining to be the only one in charge of your business, large or small. So, is running a mobile franchise right for you?
So, you’ve finally found the right franchise to meet your needs and aspirations. Congratulations! The next step in your journey is to build a team of dedicated and focused employees. In 2021, this can be daunting. In today’s era, anybody can apply for a job with the click of a mouse. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the vast number of applications, along with the stress of interviewing each potential candidate individually. Luckily, we have a few tips to streamline your hiring process so that you find the right employees for your franchise business.
Not every franchise opportunity requires long hours and your undivided attention. Semi-absentee franchise ownership is designed to allow you to earn extra money and create a growing enterprise while continuing your current career or focusing on your family. If you hope to grow your semi-absentee franchise, we’ve put together a few excellent tips to help you get the ball rolling.
If you are looking to invest in a new business model, you may be thinking owning a semi-absentee franchise is a win-win. You can invest your money into a business that comes with a limited time commitment and continue with your career. However, there are unique challenges that come with owning a semi-absentee franchise. Investing in a franchise is a critical business decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. To help guide potential franchisees on their path to franchise ownership, we’ve brought together a list of the most common challenges that new semi-absentee franchise owners will face. This information will allow you to start on your journey armed with information to be successful no matter what type of franchise you choose to open.
