Business Ownership FAQ: How Franchising Can Unlock Opportunity, Freedom, and Control.

By Ricardo Fontana
Published July 3, 2025

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Have you ever wondered how people go from working a 9-to-5 to creating a life of freedom and fulfillment? One word: Business Ownership. For many, the transition involves exploring various franchise ownership opportunities to build their dream future.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a career changer, or someone seeking more control over your financial future, owning a business may be one of the most powerful moves you can make. In this educational Q&A, we explore the benefits, risks, and strategies behind business ownership—with a spotlight on franchising as a powerful way to get started.

Franchise consultant Keith Liscio of Excelsior Franchise Center, affiliated with the Franchise Brokers Association, helps us break down the path to ownership in clear, actionable terms.

❓ Why is business ownership such a powerful tool for building wealth?

A: Because it puts you in the driver’s seat.

When you own a business, you’re no longer relying solely on a salary, a boss, or the stock market to shape your financial life. Instead, you’re building an asset that can grow, evolve, and potentially generate multiple revenue streams. Unlike traditional jobs, where income is typically capped, business ownership gives you the opportunity to scale.

That said, outcomes vary based on the business model, market conditions, and your execution. Success is never guaranteed—but for many, the opportunity is worth pursuing.

❓ Is business ownership only for experienced entrepreneurs?

A: Not at all. Franchising makes it accessible for first-timers.

Starting a business from scratch requires building everything—products, systems, branding, marketing—on your own. Franchising removes many of these barriers by giving you a proven model, structured support, and training.

Franchises are particularly appealing for people transitioning from employment or corporate roles into business ownership. They offer a framework to follow and a community of peers who’ve walked the same path.

❓ What are some potential benefits of owning a business?

A: Time flexibility, autonomy, and the chance to grow an asset.

Many people associate success with long hours and burnout—but business ownership offers another possibility: building systems that work for you, not just because of you. When structured correctly, a business can eventually run with less day-to-day involvement from the owner.

You also gain the freedom to make decisions aligned with your values, goals, and lifestyle. Instead of trading time for money, you begin creating something with long-term value.

❓ How do the financial advantages compare to being an employee?

A: Business owners may have more tools for financial planning and tax optimization.

Owning a business opens up different tax strategies and investment vehicles not typically available to employees. For example, certain retirement plans and expense deductions are only accessible through business structures. These strategies must be handled with the help of a qualified tax advisor, but they can potentially allow business owners to retain and reinvest more of what they earn.

Keep in mind: there are also new costs and responsibilities, like hiring, payroll, insurance, and compliance. Business ownership is not a shortcut—it’s a new way of thinking about income, risk, and opportunity.

❓ Isn’t starting a business risky?

A: Yes—but franchising helps reduce some of that risk.

According to data cited by the International Franchise Association, independent startups face high failure rates in their first few years. Franchising, on the other hand, offers a track record of operational performance, market testing, and brand recognition.

Keith Lucio points out that many franchise models come with:

Detailed playbooks and standard operating procedures
Initial and ongoing training
Built-in marketing support
Community and mentorship from fellow franchisees

These advantages don’t eliminate risk, but they can help increase your confidence and reduce the number of unknowns you face as a new owner.

❓ What are “Blue Ocean” franchises—and why do they matter?

A: They operate in underserved or untapped markets.

Keith specializes in helping clients find what he calls “Blue Ocean” franchises—opportunities that are not in highly saturated or overbuilt markets. These businesses often serve a specific niche, offer a disruptive or innovative model, or provide services that are consistently in demand.

“Instead of fighting for attention in a crowded space,” Keith explains, “Blue Ocean franchises give owners a chance to offer something fresh, needed, and positioned for long-term relevance.”

Examples include emerging home services, essential B2B solutions, family-focused education models, and more.

❓ How do I know if business ownership is right for me?

A: It starts with a clear understanding of your goals and risk tolerance.

Business ownership isn’t for everyone—but if you’re driven by autonomy, personal growth, and the idea of building something meaningful, it’s worth exploring.

A few questions to ask yourself:

Am I open to stepping outside my comfort zone?
Do I want more control over my time and income?
Am I motivated by challenge and growth?
Would I benefit from guidance on business systems, operations, and marketing?

If you answered yes to most of those, franchising might offer a practical and supported way to explore ownership without doing it all alone.

❓ Who is Keith Liscio, and how can he help?

A: He’s a franchise broker who helps people transition into business ownership with expert guidance.

Keith Liscio is the founder of Excelsior Franchise Center and a proud member of the Franchise Brokers Association. He partners with a broad portfolio of franchise brands across various industries to help clients find opportunities that fit their life, goals, and budget.

His mission is to help aspiring entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls and enter the world of ownership with clarity and confidence.

“I’ve helped many people take the leap into business ownership,” Keith says. “The most important step is deciding to explore it seriously.”

Final Takeaways.

Business ownership gives you a way to build a flexible, purpose-driven future.
Franchising offers a lower-risk entry point into entrepreneurship with proven systems and support.
The rewards of ownership are different for everyone—but the ability to grow, adapt, and lead your own journey is universal.
Working with a trusted franchise consultant can help you make informed, confident decisions based on your unique situation.