Grand Welcome Franchise FAQs
Do I need to rent an office and open storefront?
No, we do not require that you rent space or open an office. You can work from a home office with a computer, printer and internet access. In some markets, an office makes sense for owner and guest service, so eventually you may want to set up a small office.
How does Grand Welcome get bookings?
Grand Welcome has a sophisticated real time booking platform that is connected with online travel sites including Airbnb, HomeAway, Orbitz, VRBO, Travelocity and many more so that your properties are offered and sold on a regular basis. We also provide a robust website and social media campaigns that help maximize the amount of vacation units rented.
Do I need experience in a vacation rental business?
No. Our proven business model is designed to take the stress away from the franchisee. We handle the revenue management, marketing, backend support, reservations, technology and optional customer service, staffing and accounting allowing you to focus on growing your business even without previous experience in the industry.
Is there any specific experience that may be valuable?
We make it easy for anyone to build a successful vacation rental business. A background in sales, networking, real estate or any other sales-related industry may be well-suited to opening a Grand Welcome franchise.
The business also involves servicing customers and managing vendors to clean and maintain properties as well as a small staff eventually. Exceptional customer service and relationship building is key.
What training & support is offered?
We offer comprehensive 1-week training at our headquarters and another 1-week training at an existing corporate run location. We also provide an initial in-market training following your opening for a few days. Ongoing support is also provided with mentors, coaches, Grand Welcome staff, and online programs to encourage continuous development and collaboration.
What’s different about Grand Welcome?
Grand Welcome is offering all the support and strength of an experienced company to our Franchisees. No matter how small or big a market your location serves, you will have all the best possible tools and training to succeed and grow your franchise. We are in a unique industry compared to other franchise opportunities that require more infrastructure investment and focus and have a proven model of success that stretches back more than a decade.
How long has Grand Welcome been in business?
Grand Welcome and affiliates started business in 2009 and have since grown the number of properties and destinations offered to customers. We are now pursuing new markets to allow entrepreneurs to grow successful franchises and get the benefit of this rapidly expanding vacation rental market.
Do I need to be certified in any area?
No, except for in a few states that require a real estate broker’s license to run a vacation rental business.
Can I get an expanded territory?
Yes, we do offer an expanded territory that would require a larger franchise fee. Grand Welcome has developed the tools, techniques, and technologies needed to expand into new markets. We want to work with you to grow your business.
What is the timeframe to get my franchise up and running?
Very quickly since this is typically home-based and not brick and mortar to start. The typical length of time between the effective date of the Franchise Agreement and opening your Grand Welcome Franchise will be 30-90 days.
How much does it cost to start a franchise?
Grand Welcome is a low-cost franchise opportunity. The total investment ranges from $78,600 to $167,750 depending on the territory size you are awarded. This includes the initial franchise fee, about $10,000 in opening costs, and includes $25,000-$35,000 in working capital to start the business with.
How do you determine my territory?
The territory is defined as a single or multiple zip codes and is protected, meaning Grand Welcome cannot place another franchisee in the zip code(s) you are awarded.
Where do I start?
Fill out the request more information form below and a franchise representative will give you a call to discuss your interests and the franchise opportunity.
How many employees will I need to have?
Typically, Grand Welcome is a home-based, owner-operated franchise at start-up. Initially you do not need any employees unless you are looking to have someone else run the business on your behalf as a General Manager. Eventually as the business grows and you add vacation rental properties you will begin hiring employees, which may include an operations manager, office administrator, and quality control specialist. Cleaning and maintenance are typically contracted out to 3rd party vendors you retain and are not typically on staff.
What are the initial and ongoing franchise fees I must pay?
Grand Welcome charges a one-time initial Franchise Fee of $49,000 to $109,000 depending on the territory size that you are awarded. Ongoing each month you will be charged an 8% Royalty Fee and 1% Brand Fund Fee on net revenue. You will also be charged a monthly Technology Fee of $30 per short-term rental property being managed. You will also pay a Guest Services fee of $15 per reservation and a monthly Guest Targeted Marketing Fee of 1.5% of gross revenue for comprehensive marketing Grand Welcome conducts to solicit guest stays at vacation rental units.