There are different options to starting a business. If there is a unique idea that is currently not being offered creating a new business may be the option to take. However, if the thoughts of having an already established image and name are appealing, a franchise may be the way to go. The following lists the options available to start a business and the advantages/disadvantages to each:

• Creating a New Business
  Advantages
  • Your style
  • Your location
  • Grow at your speed
  • You are Human Resources - you hire and train employees
  • You're the only decision maker
  • The expense is all your own
  Disadvantages
  • May be difficult to establish new clients alone
  • Great risk to take on your own
  
  
• Purchasing an Existing Business
  Advantages
  • You can start right away
  • May have established clients already
  • May have experienced staff
  • Start up costs are minimal to none
  Disadvantages
  • You may not like the location
  • The image, policies, etc may be difficult to change
  
  Click here for a summary of items that should be reviewed prior to the purchase
  
  
• Franchising
  Advantages
  • Acquiring an established name and image
  • Turn Key operation
  • Fewer mistakes in the first years
  • Set up may fees maybe included in the price of the Franchise
  Disadvantages
  • Less freedom of choice
  • Less independence
  • Less profit in some cases
  • May be more costly