Hire a Consultant for Your Assisted Living Startup: Pros & Cons

assisted living business plan checklist assisted living business regulations assisted living franchise vs. consultant assisted living startup guidance assisted living state survey preparation benefits of assisted living consultants hiring a consultant for assisted living business starting an assisted living facility Sep 28, 2024

So, you're ready to jump into the assisted living business—exciting! But here’s a big question: Should you hire a consultant to help? It’s an important choice. Consultants can offer guidance, save time, and help you avoid mistakes, but they can also be pricey. Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can decide if a consultant is right for you.

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Why Hire a Consultant?

1. Expert Help Right from the Start

Starting an assisted living business means following lots of rules. Consultants know these regulations and can make sure you’re following them. This keeps you from making costly mistakes and helps you start off on the right foot.

2. Saving Time and Money

A consultant might seem expensive at first, but they can help you save money in the long run. By setting things up correctly, they can help you avoid future problems and speed up your path to profitability.

3. Preparing for State Surveys

State surveys are a big deal in assisted living. They make sure you’re following safety and quality standards. A consultant helps you prepare so you pass with flying colors, boosting your business’s reputation.

4. Keeping Up with New Rules

The assisted living world is always changing. Consultants stay updated on new laws and regulations, helping your business stay safe and efficient.

Franchise vs. Independent Consultant

When it comes to hiring help, you have two main options: joining a franchise or working with an independent consultant. Here’s how each option works:

Franchise: With a franchise, you get a whole system, including guides, policies, and support. It’s a big help, but franchises usually charge ongoing fees, which can add up.
Independent Consultant: Hiring an independent consultant often costs less in the long run. You get expert help without the ongoing fees, plus you keep control of your business.

When to Skip the Consultant

Sometimes, hiring a consultant isn’t the best choice. Here’s when you might want to go without one:

1. Limited Budget

Consultants can be pricey, with upfront costs from $10,000 to $50,000 or more. If money is tight, you might wait until you’re financially ready.

2. Your Own Knowledge and Experience

If you already know a lot about the assisted living industry, you may not need a consultant. Experienced operators might find it easier to build their own systems.

3. Strong Network

If you have friends, family, or colleagues who know the industry, they may offer guidance for free or at a lower cost. A supportive network can sometimes replace a paid consultant.

Choosing the Right Consultant

If you decide to go for a consultant, make sure they know assisted living specifically. Avoid consultants who only know hospitals or nursing homes since their experience might not be a perfect match. Ask for recommendations, check their qualifications, and find the best fit for your startup.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a consultant can be a great move, especially if you’re new to the assisted living business. They help you get started smoothly and stay on top of important rules. But remember, it’s all about what fits your budget, experience, and goals.

If you're ready to launch your assisted living business, get our free Business Plan Checklist to help you build a solid business plan. If you need some help, apply to the Assisted Living Investing Mastermind program to get expert guidance on building your business plan, finding property, securing funding, obtaining licenses, and running and scaling your business.

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