Why This Entrepreneur Chose Franchise Ownership with Window Genie and Found Success Through Teamwork

When Matt Scullin started thinking about owning a business, he was looking for one thing above all else: more control over his life.

At the time, he was running a golf course in Columbia Station, Ohio, working six or seven days a week and rarely seeing his newborn son. He knew he couldn’t own the course or achieve financial freedom without a major change.

That search led him to Window Genie^®, part of the Neighborly^® family of home service brands. In August 2020, he opened Window Genie of Cleveland West from his garage with one van, two technicians, and a determination to build a better future for his family.

Matt describes the early days of business ownership as intense. “I was probably working 80 hours a week. Up at 4:45 a.m., working until the kids went to bed,” he says. But the effort paid off quickly. Customers loved the service, the team started to grow, and momentum began to build.

His employees felt it too. They describe him as a mentor, a leader who treats them like family, and one of the best bosses they’ve ever had. Matt credits that loyalty to hiring the right people, training them well, and empowering them to grow.

“It all starts with good technicians. Once they are part of the team, they’re the cornerstone. My job is to help them feel valued and respected. When people enjoy their workplace, everything gets better.”

One of Matt’s biggest surprises was how rewarding the work turned out to be. He wasn’t sure he could find the same level of satisfaction he had running a golf course, where every day was full of friendly interactions.

It didn’t take long to discover that Window Genie offered just as much connection, if not more.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to know customers and building relationships. At the end of the day, you’re solving problems in someone’s home. You can feel the difference you make.”

Services like window cleaning, pressure washing, gutter cleaning, and holiday lighting all help homeowners care for their most valuable asset. Matt reminds his team that they are improving comfort, safety, and pride in every home they touch.

When customers call with glowing feedback, he says it is one of the best parts of the job.

What stood out to Matt during his search was Window Genie’s multi-service model. Customers can use the brand several times a year, which gives owners strong recurring revenue potential.

There was also the Neighborly advantage. With corporate support, established systems, and a trusted national brand behind him, Matt had the guidance he needed from day one.

“It is almost a turnkey way to open a business. The website, the marketing programs, the systems… all of that support adds up. And the help from other owners across the country has been huge.”

Today, Matt enjoys the flexibility that first drew him to franchising. He can attend his kids’ sporting events, stay home when someone is sick, and build a schedule that works for his family. The business is successful because he pours effort into it, but the rewards match the work.

“If you work hard, treat people well, and do good work, the rest will follow.”