How Corporate Professionals Are Quietly Building 6-Figure Side Businesses

Keith LiscioMay 2, 2025

The #1 fear I hear from corporate professionals exploring business ownership?

"I can't afford to quit my job and lose my steady income."

But here's the good news: You don't have to choose between your current paycheck and future wealth-building through franchising.

After helping dozens of corporate professionals transition into successful franchise ownership, I've discovered a powerful truth: some of the most profitable franchise owners I know started their business journey while still collecting their corporate paychecks.

Let me share how this two-track approach can become your path to financial freedom.

1 . Home-Service Franchises: The Perfect Starting Point

For corporate professionals, home-service franchises offer a compelling entry point. These businesses deliver what you're likely seeking - higher returns with lower risk.

They typically have:

- Lower overhead costs than retail or food franchises.

- Gross margins of 60–70%, meaning more of every dollar stays with you.

- Stability during downturns—essential services like HVAC, painting, and restoration. remain in demand while other sectors struggle during the economic crisis.

These factors make home-service franchises a smart, resilient investment—especially if you're used to predictability in your corporate life.

2 . The Semi-Absentee Model: Build While You Earn

One of the most attractive aspects for corporate professionals? The semi-absentee ownership model.

This approach allows you to maintain your current position while building your business on the side.

With just 15-20 hours of weekly involvement, you can oversee a franchise operation that grows even while you're focused elsewhere. This creates a safety net during the transition from employee to entrepreneur.

As your franchise matures, your involvement can decrease even more. Eventually, you can focus on strategy rather than operations.

3 . The Best of Both Worlds: Business Tax Benefits +  Job Stability

Franchise ownership also unlocks significant tax advantages you likely don’t have access to as an employee. These include:

- Deductions on equipment, vehicles, and technology.

- Business expense deductions (home office, travel, meals, etc.)

- Retirement contributions of up to $60,000 annually through solo 401(k) or SEP IRAs—compared to $22,500 as an employee.

These strategies can dramatically shift your financial position—often enough to make the leap worth it on tax benefits alone.

Meanwhile, your corporate role provides critical benefits during the franchise launch period:

- Steady income to cover personal expenses without stressing over initial business fluctuations.

- Health insurance and benefits coverage while your business builds momentum.

- Professional networking opportunities that may become valuable business connections.

Many of my clients find this combination creates a financial acceleration effect—your salary covers living expenses while business profits can be reinvested for faster growth, and tax advantages help you keep more of what you earn.

So, the key to successful franchise ownership isn't just choosing a profitable business - it's finding one that aligns with your specific strengths and goals.

The right match creates a business that supports your lifestyle goals while building significant long-term wealth.

Your Next Step?

Let's hop on a quick, no-obligation call. In just 15 minutes, I'll help you understand if franchise ownership is the right path for your future.

Click here to schedule your call now—spots are filling up fast!

Talk soon,

Keith

P.S. The most common regret I hear from successful franchise owners? Not making the mindset shift sooner. Don't let another year pass building someone else's dream when you could be building your own.

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