HouseMaster Franchise

If you're considering entering the home services industry, HouseMaster offers a compelling franchise opportunity. Established in 1971 and franchising since 1979, HouseMaster provides building inspection and related services to both residential and commercial customers. With its headquarters in Waco, Texas, HouseMaster is part of the Neighborly Assetco LLC family.

Training and Support

HouseMaster equips its franchisees with comprehensive training to ensure you start off on the right foot. The initial training program is divided into two key parts:

• HouseMaster Marketing and Operations Training: Four days of in-depth training.
• National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI) Technical Training: Nine days of specialized technical training.

All franchisees, as well as their designated manager, must successfully complete this training and pass a comprehensive test. Additionally, annual training or conference events, as well as potential refresher courses, are part of the ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards.

Territory and Expansion

HouseMaster franchisees are granted a territory with approximately 75,000 owner-occupied homes, providing significant market potential. The franchise agreement ensures limited territorial protection and allows franchisees to add additional purchased postal codes, provided all compliance conditions are met.

Investment and Financial Assistance

Starting a HouseMaster franchise requires an initial investment that includes various costs and fees:

• Initial Franchise Fee: $42,500
• Training Expenses: $500 - $2,500
• Licensing Compliance Costs: $0 - $10,000
• Marketing Materials and Supplies: $1,000 - $2,000
• Office Equipment and Furniture: $0 - $1,500
• Computer System: $100 - $2,500
• Rent: $0 - $750
• Prepaid Expenses: $250 - $750
• Insurance: $4,000 - $9,000
• Professional Services: $0 - $1,000
• Reunion Travel Expenses: $1,000 - $3,000
• Vehicle & Vehicle Branding: $3,000 - $5,700
• Starter Tool Kit: $475
• Additional Funds (3 months): $6,000 - $11,000
• Estimated Total Initial Investment: $58,825 - $92,675

The franchisor may offer financial assistance by financing a portion of the initial franchise fee for qualified candidates. Additionally, the franchisor may have arrangements with third-party lenders to provide further financing options.

Ongoing Fees

HouseMaster franchisees are subject to various ongoing fees to maintain and support their business:

• License Fee: 7.5% of first $125,000 in gross sales per year, with decreasing percentages for higher sales volumes.
• Marketing, Advertising and Promotion (MAP) Fee: 2.5% of first $125,000 in gross sales per year, with lower percentages for higher volumes.
• Local Marketing Groups: Not to exceed 3% of gross sales.
• Software System Fees: Varies by program.
• Annual Convention (Reunion) Fee: Currently $1,000 or less per registrant.
• Other Fees: Transfer Fee, Late Fees, Insurance Costs, etc.

Franchise Agreement and Renewal

The initial franchise term is 10 years, with an option to renew for an additional 10-year term, subject to current agreements and renewal requirements.

Key Takeaways

• HouseMaster is a well-established home inspection franchise with a history of success.
• Comprehensive initial and ongoing training programs ensure franchisees are well-prepared.
• Significant market potential with protected territories.
• Total initial investment ranges from $58,825 to $92,675.
• Various financing options may be available for qualified candidates.

For detailed information, download the HouseMaster Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) or fill out the free information request form on this page.