Testimonials

Fernando Robles

“I met ET & Pam Strickland 21 years ago while selling my franchised childcare center. I was terrified because I strongly wanted to sell my preschool but at the same time I did not want any of my customers or neighbors to know about it. When I expressed that to my franchisor, his answer was “I know the people that will get the job done in the smooth way that you need”. The very next week ET had my school listed. Throughout the 6 months that it took the sale process from beginning to end, we developed a professional and friendly relationship that winded up after the closing by ET offering me to work for him in his real estate firm specialized in selling childcare centers. He encouraged me to get my Real Estate License and promised to teach me anything I needed to know to succeed in that endeavor. ET and Pam became not only my teachers but my mentors, my friends and an inspiration in my life. I had a fulfilling career working with them. I saw firsthand how well they know the business. I learned how to promote the center in order to sell it, how to get the financing done, how to deal with other brokers, how to manage the licensing process, how to secure insurance and so many other secrets of the trade. The best memories I have of this wonderful couple is their human side: Inviting their staff to go with them to have fun skiing or travelling to Las Vegas, gathering every year the big family of associates to celebrate Christmas in a dinner sponsored by them, recommending books and workshops for personal improvement, giving sound personal advice when anybody was sad or worried. I also have witnessed many acts of kindness and charity way beyond what would be expected. They have given back a lot and that’s why I believed they have been blessed with such a successful career in the child care business. May God bless them for many years to come with success in their business, health to enjoy their golden years and friends to share those happy times.”

Debra Fraser

I have had the pleasure of working with ET Strickland and the team at School Investment Properties for well over 29 years. From the beginning, the entire School Investment Properties team has been professional, responsive, and effective with both the purchasing and selling of my schools. They provided assistance along every stage of the buying and selling process. I have truly enjoyed having the School Investment Properties team throughout my journey and thank them for continuously helping to meet my business and professional goals.

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. – Jeff Altschuler

Enrique with School Investment Properties, is a fantastic school broker, going far above and beyond any I have worked with in the past. His service included pricing evaluation, diligence assessment, licensing management, and even architectural plan development.

I have never seen a broker who provides these extraordinary services. His willingness to jump into any issues and help provide solutions makes him a great individual to work with.

Overall, I would highly recommend working with him as a buyer or a seller.

Sincerely,

Jeff Altschuler

Angela Starnes

I had the immense pleasure of working with Marianne Anzaldua on the sale of a childcare center in Colorado. I was very pleased to have made the decision to move forward with Marianne as our agent.
Marianne Anzaldua’s knowledge of the childcare industry and health department is unsurpassed. Mrs. Anzaldua took the selling of the business by the reigns and made this very stressful process very stress free, and I thank her for that. She stayed on top of communication with all parties that were involved, and she was very honest and ethical.
I would highly recommend Marianne Anzaldua for any and all your business related real estate transactions.

Shirley Gorgie

Dear Michelle Van Cleave,

Thank you for your help and diligence in the sale of my Center. You made the transaction as easy and quick as possible. Your experience and knowledge in this endeavor was very apparent and very much appreciate. I will be recommending you and your company to my friends. Thanks again, Sincerely.

Alissa Pinkas and Devon Barclay

Words can’t express the amount of gratitude I have for meeting Marianne. Not only did she make the process of purchasing a childcare center easier but we’ve also developed a great friendship. She’s been along for the ride as we got established, and helped with the myriad little details that make purchasing a business so complicated. Thanks to Marianne’s guidance, expertise, and willingness to help, a very complicated process was made relatively easy. And our particular acquisition was – well, let’s just say it was no picnic. Marianne not only understands the sales process, but has previous business experience running a center. Her practical knowledge and understanding of how a childcare center has been a tremendous help for both Devon and I. We have had our center, Growing Minds Learning Academy, for eight months now. Although we’ve had our ups and downs (well mostly ups) we are very thankful and could not have succeeded without Marianne. I strongly recommend her to anybody that is looking to purchase a quality childcare center to help educate children for a bright future.

Marianne Anzaldua

ET Strickland was instrumental in my decision to purchase a childcare care center. Because of his encouragement, I also pursued my broker’s license and now am employed with School Investment Properties. I know I can rely on ET to provide support and mentor me. He is always willing to share the wealth of knowledge he has – knowledge that can only be gained through years of experience.

Ben Bloise

My wife and I were looking to expand our preschool to a second location and after months of searching continued to come up empty. Luckily we connected with Marianne and our search quickly changed. She was able to show us numerous schools for sale and after a few tours and conversations to learn exactly what we wanted, she brought an off market school to us that we fell in love with. She helped make sure the transaction closed smoothly, offering sound advice at every turn. Today our second preschool is thriving and we are getting close to calling Marianne again for help finding our third location! She should be your first call when looking to buy or sell a preschool, simply the best!

Jeanne C. Keiler

It is my pleasure to write a testimonial about ET Strickland! I have known ET since 1990. I have been in the preschool business since 1977. During that time, I have owned and managed many preschools. ET and his company are by far the best brokerage for buying and selling preschools! Their expertise in the field is bar none! When they say “full service” They mean it! From finding schools, financing them, insurance, rules and regs, and all hiccups are no problem for this wonderful team! All directed of course by that “Wise Owl” ET sitting in the office imparting his wisdom and guidance. The man is a genius and so is Alan Strickland. Enrique Iturriaga is an ultimate professional that takes care and concern for each buyer and seller. Kala Lynch is a whiz at any and all finance concerns. Beau Strickland is the consummate insurance pro and gets the best coverage and price. My dealings thru the years with ET and his whole team have been most satisfactory and I highly recommend them.

Kim Upson-Bradwell

We have been in the education business over 55 years combined. We chose to sell our preschool so that we would have an opportunity to focus on consulting and travel throughout the U.S. on a full-time basis. We appreciated the daily communication and updates we received from Michelle during the entire process of our transaction; this is what made the difference in getting our school sold. Michelle was always eager to help, ensuring that all parties were satisfied. Because of Michelle’s consistent help, guidance, and expertise in the business, we sold our school quickly and for the price that we wanted. I would highly recommend Michelle to anyone who is looking to sell or expand their business.

Christy Delk – Orlando

Tim Dai, Thank you for your professionalism & patience (I could add more!) over the time we worked together. I know you have moved well past “my deal” and are on to the next ones in line, but I hope you enjoyed our experience as much as I did. It’s always so great and so rare to find others who reach high and get the job done. It was a pleasure! Hope we can stay in touch. Take Care!

Christy Delk Previous Owner Kids R Kids Orlando

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. – Early Start Learning Center

Dear Enrique,

I would like to take a moment to thank you for all your help as the Commercial Real Estate Broker during our school purchase.

We went through two deals that did not pan out, then you found the perfect school for us. It wasn’t easy, it was a long and complex financial deal and at the same time it had to comply with US immigration laws. With your help and expertise, every issue was solved and the deal was closed. During this process we became friends, and you also represented me when I was ready to purchase my home. No doubt we will do business again in the future.

I will recommend you to anybody that is interested in purchasing or selling a school. I wish you continued success in your career.

Thank you for your support.

Warm Regards,

Wanley Donat

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. – Building Dreams Preschool

To whom it may concern,

In 2012, I met an extraordinary person. To whom I should thank for all that I am today in 2019. That person is named Enrique lturriaga. It had been the dream of my whole life to have my own school.

7 years ago I was the teacher of a 2 year old class, still with a vision of my own school and becoming a business owner.

That is when Enrique appeared in my life. Because I didn’t speak English well, he was the only person with whom I could fully communicate my dream and who understood the strength of my purpose and intentions.

Even though Enrique knew much more than me about the business of owning a school; he always believed that I had the determination and capability of learning everything and that gradually we would work toward me becoming the owner of my first school. I called my school Building Dreams because that is what Enrique and I did together and I want to help the children who come to me build their dreams.

Since then Enrique has continued to be there for me. Having Enrique in my life has been like having a book open to the right answer to every question I have.

I and my family are grateful for his advice in every decision we have needed to make along the way.

I hope that many more people have the opportunity to transform their lives with Enrique’s dedication to his clients and the optimistic magic that he brings.

Thank you!

Yelixy Garcia Torres

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. & Enrique Iturriaga Jr. – Golden Bear Academy

Seller’s Testimonial

To whom it may concern,

I have known Enrique Iturriaga in a variety of capacities for many years, but most importantly he helped me with the buying and selling of my former business Golden Bear Academy in Orlando. Enrique is efficient, detail oriented and extremely competent in his field of expertise.

He went out of his way to make the selling process of Golden Bear Academy as smooth as possible. He is very knowledgeable at his line of work and does everything with proficiency.

In summary, I would highly recommend Enrique Iturriaga to anybody who needs to buy and/or sell a daycare. He will be a valuable and dependable person to have at your side.

Thank you Enrique for all your support!

Best regards,

GOLDEN BEAR ACADEMY

Julio Folker Hanze

Buyer’s Testimonial

To whom it may concern,

My family and I first met Enrique lturriaga in the fall of 2018 when we had made a decision to buy a Preschool/ Academy in the Central Florida area.

Although I had 30 years’ experience in restaurant operations, market development and franchise management; and my wife had been both treasurer and volunteer for Orange County Public School System; and our daughter had been teaching preschool and elementary; we had no previous school ownership experience.

Enrique engaged with us immediately, counseling us about acquiring the credentials and completing the necessary courses we would need to proceed.

Enrique helped guide us to the viable options in the area, with everything from franchises to independent businesses, that were possibly available. When he presented the school to us, that we now own, you could see his excitement in finding the right fit for us. Enrique worked side-by-side with us through the entire financing and loan processes. He actually advised us against the first financial package that we were presented with, as it was not a good deal for us. Thank you, Enrique! Most brokers would have had us sign on the line and then go collect their own commission check.

He also helped us throughout the entire licensing process; even completing an Orange County VPK course with my wife and daughter to gain a better understanding and to see if he could help us in any way. Enrique’s communication has been incredible. Even now as we go through some crazy times here in the spring of 2020, he has contacted us with support and financial aid that may be available for us. He will answer his phone whenever he can, he returns texts quickly and is always available even on nights and weekends.

Enrique has been so much more than a broker to our family, and he remains a good friend.

We have truly appreciated working with Enrique during this entire part of our life and we love owning our school!

Sincerely,

Fawn & Scott Gallagher

Manny & Joyce Sarria – Planet Kids Child Care Centers

Dear Michelle,

Thank you so much for everything you did to help us with the purchase of our new child care center!

You are friendly, helpful and so easy to work with. Your hard work and knowledge made the whole process smooth and easy. You even took many extra steps to ensure such a smooth transition.

We appreciate the hours you spent answering our questions and putting our minds at ease.

We highly recommend you and the entire Team at School Investment Properties. You are true professionals!

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. & Enrique Iturriaga Jr. – Neighborhood Kids Preschool (Sunrise, FL)

Seller’s Testimonial

To Whom it may concern.

I wanted to retire so I reached out to School Investment Properties because they are known to be the absolute best at brokering Schools.

Enrique Iturriaga of School Investment Properties brought several thoroughly qualified buyers within days of signing the Listing.

We accepted the best offer and with Enrique’s guidance all parties got to work completing and CLOSING the transaction.

What I liked most about Enrique was his experience, his knowledge of all aspects of the transaction, his honesty, his transparency, and his dedicated spirit of cooperation.

I found the experience of working with Enrique to be amazing. His enthusiasm was steadfast from Listing to Closing and well Beyond. I would have to give him 5 STARS!!!

I do not know of any other broker that puts in the effort that Enrique does for all the parties involved; including Financing, Licensing, Accreditation, etc.

Exceptional Service!!! (Second to NONE)

I would recommend Enrique Iturriaga of School Investment Properties to EVERYONE who is planning to or needs to Sell and/or Purchase a School.

Laurie Fox

President & Owner

Buyer’s Testimonial

To whom it May concern:

After a few years in the Early Childhood Education industry in South Florida, we met Enrique Iturriaga Sr. of School Investment Properties. His support and professional guidance have helped us grow over the past 10 years. When we have been ready to take the next step, acquiring our next school, we have always counted on his extraordinary ability to facilitate operations and make the process seem simple and expeditious for all parties involved, not because there are no obstacles, inconveniences, and disagreements. But rather because Enrique strives to remove those obstacles, resolve the inconveniences, and find the middle ground to resolve disagreements in a fair and acceptable way for all parties; making agreements possible against positions that sometimes seemed irreconcilable.

That is why when we decided to acquire our fourth school at the beginning of 2020, we had no hesitation in turning to Enrique’s expertise again, who not only presented us with the best available options, but also in a situation as complex and uncertain as the COVID19 pandemic, accompanied and supported us throughout the purchase, licensing and transition process, with an approach that, more than a Real Estate Broker, is a business consultant who works hard and gets involved as a real partner in the operation.

Enrique’s ability to lead without imposing himself, find the balance point where the operation is beneficial for both parties, push himself beyond his obligations, doing not only the extra mile, but two, five or ten extra miles if necessary and of forging long-term relationships has been vital in all the operations we have carried out with his guide. The support that Enrique provides has never ended with the closing of the purchase, but he has always remained in contact, ready to support us in the difficult moments of starting the operation of the schools.

That is why, without any doubt, we recommend Enrique Iturriaga Sr., to anyone who wants to buy or sell a school.

Sergio and Oscar Chinea
Future Kids Academy

Dan Bailes

Thank you Michelle!

Thank you for all your help and understanding in making this happen.  We wouldn’t want anyone to sell our school but you.  We came to you because we feel you are the best! With all your experience and knowledge in the child care industry you know how to make this sale happen.  You have made it a smooth process and I am very grateful for all your help in selling our school. 

Sincerely,

Dan Bailes

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. & Enrique Iturriaga Jr. – Clever Oaks Montessori

To whom it may concern,
We were in the process of looking for a preschool when we reached out to Enrique Iturriaga and School Investment Properties, Inc. in 2018, and we are so glad that we did! We had previous business ownership experience in other fields, but had never owned a school before.
Enrique walked us through every step of the way. From acquiring the necessary licenses, the loan process, inspections, preparing for our first weeks as new owners… the list goes on. We now have a beautiful, growing Montessori school with a capacity of 240 students. Lots of our success is attributed to his support and guidance. It would not have been possible for us without him.
Four years later, we were also able to purchase our school’s real estate, again, with Enrique by our side. To this day, Enrique is an active contributor to our school’s success. He is always there and always willing to help in any way that he can, with his positivity and can-do attitude.
If you are interested in purchasing a school (or selling), please contact Enrique… you will not regret it. He goes above and beyond and has been so valuable to us. We are forever grateful to you, Enrique!
Thank you,
Sandra Lata, Felipe Lata and Jackie Adorna

Mike Clark, member Duke & Clark Holdings, LLC

Madolyn did a great job marketing and representing our facilities. She brought many qualified purchasers to the table. Madolyn’s network of clients is top rate. We would not hesitate to list or purchase properties from her.

Rod Strickland – Kidz City USA/Bluffton Academy

We just closed a transaction, as purchaser, on a childcare center brokered by Madolyn Cole. The transaction went very smoothly with excellent communication from Madolyn throughout the process. I highly recommend Madolyn and would work with her again in an instant.

Madolyn Cole – Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori School

I couldn’t have asked for a more exceptional commercial real estate agent than Madolyn Cole. From the moment we began working together, it was evident that I was in the hands of a true professional. Her extensive knowledge of the market and unwavering dedication made the entire process smooth and rewarding.

Throughout our journey, Madolyn demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to understanding my unique needs and goals. She took the time to patiently listen to my requirements and concerns, ensuring that every property they presented to me aligned perfectly with my business objectives.

Madolyn’s ability to negotiate on my behalf was truly impressive. Her keen eye for detail and strategic approach to handling transactions meant that I secured the best possible deal. I felt confident and reassured throughout the negotiation process, knowing I had a competent and skilled advocate fighting for my interests.

Beyond her professionalism and expertise, Madolyn exhibited exceptional communication skills. She was always prompt in responding to my inquiries and kept me updated at every stage of the process. It was refreshing to work with an agent who valued open and transparent communication as much as I did.

Her commitment to going above and beyond is truly commendable. Not only did Madolyn assist with the property search and negotiation, but she also provided valuable insights into the local market, zoning regulations, and potential growth opportunities for my business. It was evident that she genuinely cared about my success.

Thanks to Madolyn, I found the perfect commercial property that perfectly suits my business needs. I am incredibly grateful for their expertise, professionalism, and genuine passion for what they do. If you are in search of a commercial real estate agent who will deliver exceptional results and an unmatched level of service, I wholeheartedly recommend Madolyn. She is a true industry expert and a pleasure to work with.

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. & Enrique Iturriaga Jr. – For Kids Only of Vero Beach

SELLER’S TESTIMONIAL:

After 39 years of owning and operating my preschool, For Kids Only of Vero Beach, Inc., I am now happily retired. It took a special team to sell my business, as it was more than a business and source of financial support for my family, it was home! The place where I raised my children, and my grandchildren and made lifelong community friends.

Letting go of something so personal could only have been accomplished with the help of Enrique Iturriaga and his son, Enrique Jr. with School Investment Properties, Inc. They were professional, but also kind and patient. Enrique and Enrique Jr. knew the attachment I had to my Center and were respectful and understanding of my struggle and supported me to sell when I was ready. For me, that decision had to be mine!

Selling a Center is a very complicated ordeal, involving financial institutions, government compliance with City, County and State rules and regulations, ensuring a seamless transition for parents and staff, and the approval of subsidized care agencies.

Enrique and Enrique Jr. are both gentlemen who have the skills and personality to juggle all of these requirements while creating an environment of friendship and respect. The experience at times can be hectic, stressful and even intimidating and that’s why you need the unique team of Enrique Iturriaga and Enrique Jr. I am pleased to recommend Enrique and Enrique Jr. if you are thinking now or in the future of selling your ChildCare Center or Private School.

Lenora Quimby, MSW
For Kids Only of Vero Beach, Inc.

SELLER’S ATTORNEY & SON’S TESTIMONIAL:

To whom it may concern,
As the in-house attorney for a large company, and previously as a commercial litigator for one of the
country’s top law firms, I have seen firsthand the many obstacles that can derail a business deal. So
when my mother decided to put her childcare center up for sale after almost 40 years of ownership, I
was committed – both as her son and attorney – to ensuring she received excellent service from her
agent.  Fortunately, she chose to work with Enrique Iturriaga Sr. and Enrique Iturriaga Jr.  Thanks to their
tireless efforts, she was able to close on the sale of her center in 2023.  We could not have been more
impressed with Enrique Sr. and Enrique Jr. 
 
Selling a school is a complicated process involving issues of childcare licensing, regulations, financing,
the sale of real and personal property, and the business itself.  But with their deep understanding of this
space, positive attitudes, responsiveness, creativity, and work ethic, there was no better team than
Enrique Sr. and Enrique Jr. for navigating these complexities and getting the job done.
 
Even when faced with personal tragedy, Enrique Sr. and Enrique Jr. continued to handle their
professional responsibilities. As we neared key deadlines toward the end of my mother’s deal, we
received word that Enrique Sr.’s wife was involved in a serious car accident, necessitating significant
medical intervention and a lengthy hospital stay.  Somehow, Enrique Sr. and Enrique Jr. were able to
persevere and continue moving the deal toward the finish line through non-stop phone calls and emails
over several weeks with lenders, attorneys, and the other parties – all while Enrique Sr. worked out of a
hospital waiting room. 
 
Thanks to Enrique Sr. and Enrique Jr., my mother was able to sell her center and achieve her dream of
retirement.  I absolutely recommend these gentlemen to anyone looking to sell or buy a school.   
Best regards,

Alex Quimby

BUYER’S TESTIMONIAL:

To Enrique lturriaga Sr. & Jr. of School Investment Properties, 

I’m Matilde Espinal, the new owner/director at Global Learning of Vero Beach. Alongside my partner, Cesar Alvarez, we want to extend our sincere appreciation for your exceptional support and expertise in facilitating the acquisition of our center. 

When we set out to purchase a business, we knew we needed a skilled team to guide us through the process. Having worked with Enrique Sr. and Enrique Jr. in the past, Cesar had full confidence in their abilities, so we reached out to them for the job. From our initial interactions, the approachability, knowledge, and dedication stood out, and they continued to impress us at every turn. 

Enrique Sr. & Jr. worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth transaction, tackling every challenge with creativity and determination. Their proactive communication and attention to detail ensured that no issue went unresolved, making the process seamless and straightforward for us. Their collaborative approach and problem-solving skills were invaluable in overcoming any obstacles that arose. 

In the midst of our dealings, Enrique Sr. faced personal hardships when his wife was involved in a severe car accident, necessitating multiple surgeries and therapies. Despite this difficult time, we are grateful that Enrique Sr. & Jr. as a team remained steadfast in their commitment to assisting us without interruption. Whenever Enrique Sr. needed to attend to his wife, Enrique Jr. stepped in seamlessly to carry out the tasks at hand. Their unwavering dedication to achieving our goals, as well as those of the seller, was truly remarkable and we are forever grateful to them. 

Thanks to Enrique Sr. & Jr.’s exceptional support and guidance, we are now proud owners of Global Learning of Vero Beach. We are excited about this new chapter and deeply grateful for the invaluable assistance provided by both Enrique lturriaga Sr. & Jr. and their team at School Investment Properties. 

We confidently recommend these two gentlemen to anyone seeking knowledgeable assistance with their childcare needs. Whether you are buying or selling, they are the ones for the job. 

Matilde Espinal 

Global Learning of Vero Beach

(Previously For Kidz Only of Vero Beach)

Enrique Iturriaga Sr. & Enrique Iturriaga Jr – Whiz Kidz Early Learning Center

Seller’s Attorney Testimonial

April 18, 2024

Enrique Iturriaga
Enrique Iturriaga, Jr.

School Investment Properties, Inc
3309 Northlake Blvd. #107
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33404

Re: Sale of School

Dear Enrique and Enrique,
Please accept this letter as a testimonial regarding the services you both rendered in my client’s recent
school sale. From the inception of the transaction, I truly knew I was working with true professionals
specializing in this niche market.
It was a seamless transaction with the Enriques. They both made my client, the Seller, be at ease with
all the intricacies of this type of transaction. Between coordinating with service providers up to dealing
with the City/State matters of licensing. No issue was too large for them to handle. They provided me,
as legal counsel, every item I needed in a timely manner. They answered the phone on every call. Their
response/action time was remarkable.
This property closed as was anticipated by all parties. I noted how both the Seller as well as the Buyer
were grateful for the services provided by this dynamic father son duo. I recommend this team
wholeheartedly and without reservation. I am available to answer any questions.

Sincerely,
HAROLD H. WEISMAN, P.A.

Wendi S. Weisman, Esquire
WSW/csw

14416 South Military Trail, Delray Beach, Florida 33484
(561) 498-0017 [email protected]

Seller’s Testimonial

In progress…

Buyer’s Testimonial

In progress…