#220 Buy vs. Build: Start or Acquire Your First Business?

In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack dive into one of the most common questions in home services: Should you buy a business or build one from scratch? Focusing on HVAC and plumbing companies, they break down the pros and cons of each path—sharing real-world insights on risk management, startup challenges, and acquisition strategy. Whether you're eyeing your first location or expanding your footprint, this episode helps frame the decision around your skills, experience, and resources.They cover everything from interest rates and international contracting to the realities of marketing and cultural fit in small business ownership. While John and Jack don’t always agree, they align on this: success in HVAC and plumbing comes from understanding your strengths, knowing your limits, and being in the game. This is a must-listen for anyone serious about growing in the trades.💼 Shoutout to Quick Staffers LLC Need trained HVAC & plumbing CSRs at a fraction of the cost? Quick Staffers LLC specializes in placing top-tier global talent with the best SOPs and scripts. 🔥 Get $1,000 off your first placement here💼 Special Thanks to Service Scalers!We’ve been partnering with Service Scalers to maximize our Local Service Ads (LSAs) and optimize our Google My Business profiles, and the results have been incredible. With hundreds of thousands in sales and 900+ calls in a single week, GMBs are now our top-performing organic lead channel. Want to learn how Service Scalers can do the same for you? 🔗Check Them Out Here 💸Sponsored by CFO Made EasyBuilt a strong trades business? Let’s take it to $10M and beyond. CFO Made Easy offers part-time CFO services for home and trade service businesses—helping you boost cash flow, maximize profit per tech, and make clear growth decisions.📈 Free Offer: Book a 45-min Financial Insight Session to uncover growth blockers.👤 Hosted by:John Wilson  Jack Carr Send Us Mail!More Ways To Connect with O&OJohn's Podcast YouTube ChannelOwned and Operated Newsletter Bonus Videos From JohnLeave a ReviewJohn Wilson, CEO of Wilson CompaniesJack Carr, CEO of Rapid HVAC📌 Disclaimer: Some links may include UTM parameters or affiliate relationships, meaning we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Episodes may feature sponsors, but all opinions expressed are our own.