Q&A with Mario DiCostanzo, AdvantaClean Multi-Unit Franchisee

Name: Mario DiCostanzo

Title: Franchise Owner

Brand: AdvantaClean

Units: 3 (Westchester & Rockland County, NY and Stamford, CT)

Years in franchising: 6

Why did you choose to franchise with a service brand?

I like helping people and solving problems for them. I have a purpose in the service industry and help make people’s lives better. I previously had a job on Wall Street as an equity trader for 21 years buying and selling stocks. When the market crashed in 2008, everything changed and I decided to get out and look for other opportunities.

How did you choose the sector and brand you did?

When discussing options with my franchise business coach, he initially mentioned mold remediation. I thought it would be a tough business and I wasn’t too sure about the opportunity. I changed my mind when meeting with the people from AdvantaClean and really felt I could be successful doing this. I chose AdvantaClean because I thought I had an opportunity to grow with the brand rather than just being a statistic with another company. Also, I am allergic to mold and I have sensitivities to dirt, dust, and debris. I figured that to help myself, I would need to know how to take the proper steps to treat exposure to those things. If I could make things right for me, I could help other people who also have bad reactions to it.

What different skill sets are required for service brand franchising?

I think the most important thing is to have a hunger and desire to succeed. I was always good with my hands and I think I’m okay with sales. You need to have strong business acumen as well. You also have to be an accountant, a marketer, and a salesman. But if you don’t have a desire to learn and get better each day, I think you will fail.

What are the advantages of choosing a service brand?

The best part of being with a service brand franchise is the support you receive. If you are stuck on a job and need help, you can call the franchisor’s technical support team or any other franchisee for assistance. Systems are important, but I think the support that is in place is even more valuable to a franchise owner.

How does having a service brand benefit/complement your other brand(s)?

I don’t have another franchise brand.

What would you recommend to anyone considering a service brand?

If you like helping people and want to feel good about yourself, I think a service business is the way to go. I go home satisfied knowing I succeeded in solving problems for others. And with franchises, you have the support behind you, which is crucial in helping you do business.