Meet 2 New Chem-Dry Carpet Cleaning Franchise Owners

Firefighter, former contractor talk about their experiences starting their Chem-Dry carpet cleaning businesses

The first year of a new business can be a trying one. From developing a marketing strategy to ironing out your financial goals, new business owners find themselves tackling a different challenge every day. But what if you didn’t have to do it alone? What if you had the support of an established company who could answer your toughest questions and even help you iron out the financial details of your new business? New Chem-Dry carpet cleaning franchise owners enjoy the support of a time-tested and proven franchise system and a team of people who are dedicated to helping them succeed in their first year and beyond. To get some insight into what it’s like to start Chem-Dry business, we spoke with two new Chem-Dry franchisees who shared their personal experiences and advice for anyone considering a carpet cleaning franchise.

Mike Ferris

Mike Ferris — 1 year in business, Chem-Dry of the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Mike, what were you doing before you found Chem-Dry?

I worked for a big contracting company in our area. We did plumbing, commercial refrigeration, and HVAC. I spent 12 years there and held both design and management positions within the company.

What led you to Chem-Dry?

I was looking to buy a business. I had been with that company for a long time and I was ready to have something of my own. A friend of mine used to own a carpet cleaning business and that kind of got me thinking about that industry. I took the initiative and started calling around to people in different parts of the country asking them what company they used to take care of their carpets. Everyone kept testifying as to what a good job Chem-Dry did for them.

What sets Chem-Dry apart as a business opportunity?

When I was searching for a business, I wanted something that didn’t have a lot of risk. There is always risk involved with any new business, but I was hoping to minimize that. A business can take a while to build and the first couple of years are going to have their growing pains, but Chem-Dry is an opportunity with a big demand. There are a lot of rental properties in my area, which brings a high need for carpet cleaning, and specifically Chem-Dry. Plus, there are a lot of ways to grow your business. We are prone to hurricanes here and I know that once I get established, I can add water damage restoration to my services.

What sets Chem-Dry apart for customers?

People love the quick drying time. There’s no inconvenience for them. Also, you can offer them such a wide variety of services outside of just carpet cleaning. That’s what really sets Chem-Dry apart from the competition — we not only clean your carpets well, but we can take care of upholstery, tile and stone, and area rugs.

Who are your primary customers?

I work with several real estate companies in town as well as with short and long term vacation rentals. I also have a few apartment complexes, club houses, restaurants, and medical centers in addition to residential customers.

What has your first year of business been like?

It’s had its ups and its down. I have been able to get off the truck, which has kept business moving. It’s what you have to do to grow. I knew there would be another expense brought on board when I did that, but it’s worth it because it keeps your schedule fuller. I have also been working hard to motivate my employees to upsell. Getting in the door is the biggest battle, but once they are, the sky is the limit. It’s our job to make the customer aware of why this product is better and worth the cost versus our competitors.

What advice would you give to someone considering a Chem-Dry carpet cleaning franchise?

Be patient and prepared. It’s a great business to own, but you have to be willing to work hard at it and take advantage of the resources available to you.

Robert Wheeler — 3 months in business, Fresh Start Chem-Dry, Greenville, OH

Robert Wheeler

Robert, what were you doing before joining the Chem-Dry family?

I served as a firefighter for 16 years and before that, I was active in the military. I had sustained a shoulder injury during my time in the military and it just wouldn’t heal. Eventually, I had surgery and was confronted with the fact that I needed to make a career change.

What led you to Chem-Dry?

I first heard about Chem-Dry during an advertisement on XM radio that mentioned they were veteran-friendly. I was looking for a new career path and I needed something that would provide me with flexibility. I am the primary provider for my grandparents, so I had to find a job that would allow me the time to get them to their medical appointments and ensure they’re taken care of. I worked with Franchise Sales Director, Kim Falcone, during the process and just felt like it would be a great fit.

What sets Chem-Dry apart as a business opportunity?

When I was researching the business, it was presented to me as a turnkey opportunity, and it truly is. There are a lot of resources when you run into problems, you can tackle anything. Someone is always there to help you no matter what you may be facing.

What sets Chem-Dry apart for the customers?

The way we clean. Chem-Dry gets carpets so much cleaner than standard carpet cleaning and also, when we walk out, the floor is barely damp. The drying time is phenomenal. And our spot and stain removal products are far above any other. In fact, we just helped a woman who had her carpet cleaned by a competitor and they told her they couldn’t get the stains out. She called us for a re-do and we got the job done!

Who are your primary customers?

Our customers are mostly residential, but we’ve already got three commercial accounts within the first few months of business.

How have your first few months been?

You always have to face the fear of the unknown when it comes to taking a risk. You put your money out there and really hope it comes back to you, and so far, it has! I also really appreciate the fact that this allows me to set my own schedule. I can make sure my grandparents are taken care of, and my wife loves having me home every night! We’ve even been able to start taking ballroom dancing classes every Wednesday, which was something we could have never done when I was a firefighter. Setting your own schedule is great!

What advice would you give someone considering a Chem-Dry franchise?

When you go to training, takes lots and lots of notes! They give you so much good information during that time, that you just can’t take enough!

Learn more

Chem-Dry is the world’s largest carpet cleaning franchise with more than 3,500 locations that serve 10,000 homes a day. It is Entrepreneur magazine’s top-rated carpet cleaning franchise and one of its Top 10 choices for low-cost and home-based franchises. Our hot carbonating extraction process delivers a faster-drying, deeper, healthier clean that appeals to homeowners and business owners — and the process can be used to clean tile and stone, upholstery and other surfaces besides carpet.

For in-depth details about the Chem-Dry franchise opportunity, download our free franchise report. You can also learn more by visiting our research pages.