America's Top 10 Home-Based Franchises
Working from home is no longer just in the purview of freelancers. For the past few decades, companies have grown by franchising their business through home-based employees. This model has worked so well for a simple reason: Branded companies are giving budding entrepreneurs a chance to be a part of a large company.
Home-based franchises also typically require a low-cost investment to get started (in comparison to high overhead for a storefront) and a lot of support when it comes to running business operations. All 10 of these companies have earned bragging rights over the years. Most not only offer training programs to franchise owners, but also marketing and technology support. All have also received acclaim and awards over the years for the way they do business and work with franchisees.
- Jazzercise: There's no need to run a home gym with Jazzercise. But the company does require certification for their exercise program—which they'll help you receive—along with CPR certification. Once certified, organize and teach classes in local gyms and buildings, as well as hire other exercise instructors.
- Tutor Doctor: As a franchise owner with Tutor Doctor, hire the tutors and match them with students of all ages and grades who need homework help. Tutor Doctor also provides technology to help run an in-home business, including an accounting module.
- Home Helpers: Organize in-home caregivers for medical and non-medical needs in your territory. Established in 1997, Home Helpers offers franchisees marketing, training and support.
- Snap-On Tools: By running a mobile tool store with Snap-On Tools, franchise owners sell hand tools and equipment solutions to professional tool users.
- Rooter-Man: Forget royalties. Rooter-Man works on a simple flat pricing system for its franchisees. In addition to receiving training on how to run the business, franchisees become independent dealers in the plumbing, drain and sewer cleaning business.
- Vanguard Cleaning Systems: It is one of the largest home-based franchises. Vanguard offers a janitorial franchise program that involves independently operating a complete cleaning business.
- Lawn Doctor: The company started as a hardware store but, through its training programs, became a franchisor of all-season care in communities throughout the U.S. Franchisees receive access to training as well as proprietary equipment for lawn care, shrub and tree care, pest control and yard maintenance.
- Cruise Planners - American Express Travel: After franchisees train through online travel courses, they can sell cruises to travelers. Additional money can be made through commissions on trip insurance and other trip add-ons.
- Padgett Business Services: Accountants can become franchisees by offering tax advice and preparation services through Padgett. While Padgett includes training, franchisees should have a tax, accounting, or financial background before investing in the company.
- Proforma: By working with Proforma, franchisees have access to a large network of suppliers and printers in order to sell business documents, promotional products and printing services.
Elizabeth SanFilippo is a freelance writer, who enjoys trying new foods from all over the world. But her favorite city for culinary treats will always be Chicago. When not writing about food, she's scribbling novels, and TV show reviews and recaps. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
