5 Boxes to Check Before Expanding Your Franchise Outside the U.S. You can successfully branch into new markets by being prepared and knowing how to do it properly.

For a modern, lifestyle brand to truly represent all people, global expansion is a necessary step but one not to be executed without considerable forethought. Before taking the leap across international waters, a company's leaders need to be strategic, not only in operational planning, but in its consideration of cultures, people and brand messaging, and in identifying the right business partners that set future franchises up for success.

My clear vision for Realty ONE Group International from day one was to be a global company, so that's been a factor in all we've done, not just a growth story for Wall Street and shareholders. But that may not be the case for all companies.

Related: How to Take Your Company Global