Unless you have prior experience as a business broker, starting a business brokerage agency can prove difficult. So rather than starting an independent firm, you might consider franchise opportunities in the business brokerage sector.

With the right business broker franchise, you’ll have the training, support, and resources you need to succeed as a business broker — all of which are hard to come by if you’re working independently.

But that invites the question: What business broker franchise opportunity will prove to be the right fit?

Evaluating business broker franchise opportunities requires a basic understanding of the industry. To put it another way: First, you’ll need to know what business brokers need to be successful. Then, you’ll need to look at which franchise opportunities earn the highest marks in these areas.

How to Evaluate Business Broker Franchise Opportunities

Business Model

When you compare different franchise opportunities, you’re essentially comparing different business models. Different business brokers take vastly different approaches to business brokerage, and the same can be said of franchise brands in the business brokerage industry. So, it’s important that you find the right franchise business model.

Questions to ask:

• Does the business model fit your resources, goals, and vision of franchise ownership?
• Does the business model make sense for your target market?
• Do you have any flexibility to modify this business model? And is this something you’re looking for?

Brand Reputation

A business brokerage brand’s reputation tells you two important things when you’re evaluating franchise opportunities. First, it tells you how much of an asset the brand name will be for marketing purposes. Second, it gives you a sense of how franchisees and competing business brokers view the brand’s quality.

Questions to ask:

• Does the brand have a strong reputation among business owners for its services?
• Does the brand have a strong reputation among past and existing franchisees?
• Does the brand have a strong reputation among other business brokers?

Training & Education

Running a franchise requires detailed knowledge of your industry and franchise system. That makes training and education an important part of franchise opportunities — especially in complex industries like business brokerage!

Questions to ask:

• Will you be afforded the training you need to develop a thriving franchise?
• Will you be provided with the education you need to become an expert business broker?
• How intensive is training compared to other business broker franchise opportunities?

Corporate Support

Rigorous training and education can do a lot to prepare you for a business brokerage franchise. But they aren’t enough on their own. As you develop your business, start pursuing leads, and take on your first set of clients, you’ll need support from your franchisor. The best business broker franchise opportunities will ensure that you not only get this support but that it comes from experienced brokers.

Questions to ask:

• Does the franchisor provide robust support to new franchisees as they develop their business?
• Does this support include business brokerage guidance for first-time brokers?
• Is this guidance provided by respected, knowledgeable, and experienced business brokers?

Franchisee Resources

As a business broker, you need to project a capable and trustworthy image, with a proven strategy for attracting clients. You need to craft listings and marketing materials that appeal to business buyers. And you need systems that minimize administrative duties so that you can focus more time on your clients. The best business broker franchise opportunities will offer resources to assist in all of these areas.

Questions to ask:

• Can you rely on your franchisor to help you attract prospects and generate leads?
• Will you have access to high-quality marketing materials for attracting new clients?
• Does the franchisor offer help with back-office systems and administration?

Proven Process

The best business brokers use a step-by-step process at every stage when brokering a business sale. This process ensures that they’ve done all they can to maximize the value and saleability of the business. And it ensures that critical details aren’t accidentally neglected. The best business broker franchise opportunities come with rigorous brokerage systems, backed by proven track records.

Questions to ask:

• Does the franchisor provide a rigorous, step-by-step process for business sales?
• Does this process cover valuations, marketing, negotiations, and the finalization of transactions?
• Does this process have a proven track record of successful sales and client satisfaction?

Ready to get started with a business brokerage franchise? Call Murphy Business at (727) 725-7090 to learn about our franchise opportunities.