Independent Vs being a franchisee? I have done both!

There’s no shortage of online opinions claiming Jim’s Mowing is overpriced, low-quality, or not worth the franchise fees.

But Chris, a seasoned horticulturist turned Jim’s Mowing franchisee, says the truth is very different—and his numbers back it up.

After struggling to build his independent business, Chris joined Jim’s Mowing and has since built a thriving operation, earning nearly $8,000 in his first week alone.

In this episode:

Chris shares his journey from independent gardening contractor to Jim’s Mowing franchisee and how the move completely transformed his business.

He talks about the myths around franchise fees, the unmatched lead generation system, the power of the Jim’s brand, and the support that helped him go from struggling solo operator to successful franchise business owner.

If you’re weighing up independent business vs franchising, this episode delivers a clear and honest comparison.

Key Takeaways:

• Leads from Jim’s are better—and more frequent.
  As an independent, Chris relied on third-party platforms like Biz, which only delivered the scraps Jim’s couldn’t take. Since joining Jim’s, he gets high-quality leads consistently and doesn’t have to chase new clients.

• Franchise fees pay for themselves.
  Chris earned nearly $8,000 in his first week with Jim’s, proving the fees are well worth the investment. He sees the franchise system as a business-in-a-box that removes guesswork and marketing headaches.

• Franchisees are highly skilled professionals.
  The idea that Jim’s franchisees aren’t qualified is a myth. Chris brought over a decade of industry experience to the table, and Jim’s still provided valuable training that sharpened his focus on service and professionalism.

• Brand trust wins jobs faster.
  Customers recognize and trust the Jim’s logo. That branding power alone helps franchisees like Chris win jobs more easily than when he was working independently.

• Pricing is smarter, not cheaper.
  Chris uses a strategic quoting method that includes buffer room to ensure profitability. He doesn’t race to the bottom—he delivers value, and his 90% quote conversion rate proves it.

• Better tools and processes improve job turnaround.
  Chris invested in high-end battery gear and even has backup equipment ready. This focus on efficiency means more jobs completed per day and fewer interruptions.

• Franchise community is supportive, not competitive.
  Chris was surprised to find other franchisees were helpful, collaborative, and even willing to share jobs. This culture of support helped him feel part of something bigger.

• Work-life balance is a real option.
  Chris works a 4-day week and still earns great money. The structure and flexibility of Jim’s Mowing allow him to prioritize family and lifestyle without sacrificing income.