Lifestyle Business vs. Scalable Business

In this episode of JackQuisitions, Jack flips the mic to bring on… JackQuisitions favorite and Owned & Operated’s own John Wilson. Together they break down two real deals in Ohio: a premium pool service route in Northeast Ohio and a 221-ATM route in Franklin County (Columbus). They dig into seasonality, margins, route density, and the very real difference between buying a cash-flowing job vs. a scalable business. If you’re weighing service routes, LSA arbitrage, or sticky B2B contracts (YMCA/schools/hotels), this one’s rubber-meets-the-road deal analysis.

John and Jack unpack how pool service plugs neatly into a home-services platform (maintenance → service → replace), where the margin leaks might be, and why commercial indoor pools can spin off restoration/mold remediation upsides. Then they turn to the ATM route: 221 machines, ~two people to run it, eye-popping EBITDA… but relationship concentration, pricing, and “are you buying a job?” realities.

💼 Special Thanks to First Internet Bank!

Looking to buy or expand a business? First Internet Bank is a National Preferred SBA lender specializing in acquisitions for the skilled trades. Their SBA loan program offers up to 90% financing for business acquisitions, partner buyouts, and commercial real estate—plus optional lines of credit to fuel future growth. Unlike traditional lenders, they take a “how can we” approach, making deals happen for both first-time buyers and experienced operators.

👉 Special Offer: Mention Owned and Operated for a reduced good faith deposit and a complimentary deal review + buyside prequalification.

Connect with Alan Peterson from First Internet Bank here: [https://alanfib.com/]



💼 Business Modification Group —

The go-to business brokers for trades companies. Whether you’re buying or selling HVAC, plumbing, or electrical businesses, we help you navigate valuations, find deals, and close successfully. Get a free valuation as a buyer or seller and join our exclusive distribution list for the best opportunities in the trades market.

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💼 Shoutout to Appletree Business Services

HVAC and plumbing pros—ditch tax surprises and unresponsive accountants. Appletree handles your books, taxes, payroll, and acquisitions, and they know tools like ServiceTitan cold.

🎁 Get a free tax & financial review or 10% off a QOE report.

👉 Book a call HERE tell Patrick Jack sent you.

🎙 Host: Jack Carr — https://x.com/thehvacjack
🎙 Guest: John Wilson — https://x.com/thewilsoncompanies

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