How to Succeed as A Multi-Unit Franchisee: Larry West, Property Damage Appraisers

Owner of two Property Damage Appraisers locations in Texas, Larry West doesn’t mince words about the amount of effort it takes a franchise owner to grow his or her portfolio. “It’s an exorbitant amount of time and a lot of blood, sweat and tears,” West said. “You have to be passionate about what you’re doing.”

According to West, it’s crucial to do some hands-on due diligence on the outset, to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. “I went out and spoke to the owner [of the PDA franchise he eventually bought], hung out for a week or two and did some work with the employees to see what I would have to do to continue the success that he already started.”

While money is a key motivation for any franchise owner, it has to go beyond that, says West. “Every day is different, and that’s what keeps me young, keeps me excited and keeps me working those long hours.”