Business Broker Franchise vs License: What’s the Better Path?

If you’re exploring a career in M&A or business brokerage, you’ve likely come across two options: join a business broker franchise or license a platform like Merge.

At first glance, they may seem similar. Both give you tools, training, and support to run your business. But under the hood, the differences couldn’t be more important—especially when it comes to cost, control, and long-term upside.

Let’s break it down.

🏢 What Is a Business Broker Franchise?

A business broker franchise gives you a predefined playbook. You operate under their brand, follow their systems, and typically pay an upfront franchise fee, plus ongoing royalties.

Typical franchise model:

• $40K–$100K+ franchise fee

• 5%–10%+ royalty on gross revenue

• Required use of corporate brand

• Territory restrictions

• Corporate approval for marketing, pricing, etc.

It’s a structured, traditional approach—and for some, it works. But many entrepreneurs find it limiting.

🔓 What Is a Licensing Model?

A licensing model like Merge offers you the playbook, tools, and support—without the control.

You keep your brand (or co-brand if you want). You set your own pricing. You keep 75%+ of your deal revenue. And you can get started for a fraction of the cost of a franchise.

Merge license model:

• $35,000 one-time license fee

• 25% revenue share (flat and transparent)

• Operate under your own brand

• No territories or exclusivity limits

• Access to CRM, valuation tools, buyer database, and more

You get the power of a national M&A platform—without giving up your independence.

💰 Cost Comparison

Let’s say you want to close 4 deals per year. Here’s how the numbers stack up:

With Merge, you get more flexibility, more autonomy, and a faster path to ROI.

🔧 What’s Included in the Merge License

Merge was built for entrepreneurs who want to hit the ground running—without reinventing the wheel. Here’s what’s included:

• Website design and build (with NDA capture and lead flow)

• CRM tools, valuation calculators, prospectus templates

• Buyer email sequences and access to the Merge buyer ecosystem

• SOPs, training modules, outreach workflows

• Slack community, monthly coaching, and peer support

You’re not just getting a name—you’re getting a full business in a box, built for closers.

🧠 Why Many Founders Choose Licensing Over Franchising

• No brand restrictions: Build your own brand or co-brand with Merge

• Higher revenue share: You keep more, because you earn more

• No territory limits: Work where you want, with the clients you want

• Fast ramp-up: Many licensees close their first deal in under 90 days

• Lean and flexible: No need for office space, employees, or red tape

It’s a modern model for modern dealmakers.

💬 What Licensees Say

“I didn’t want to build something from scratch or give up control. Merge gave me the playbook and the platform—without the red tape.”
– Former founder, now full-time M&A advisor

“The tools are world-class, the brand is trusted, and I can still run the business my way. It’s everything I needed to get to my first deal fast.”
– 2024 licensee

📊 Broker Platform Comparison

Here’s how Merge stacks up against other popular broker platforms:

Merge gives you structure without limits—and unmatched flexibility.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Franchise vs License—What’s Right for You?

If you want a traditional, heavily guided path with a strict brand and playbook, a franchise may work. But if you’re a self-starter who wants flexibility, high earnings, and real autonomy—a licensing model like Merge is the better choice.

You get the structure without the strings. The tools without the territory. The brand lift without the bureaucracy.

Want to learn more about becoming a licensed business broker with Merge?
👉 [Apply to Become a Licensee]
👉 [Book a Call to Learn More]