The Doan Group

The Doan franchise stands as a pioneering force in the rapidly expanding home preparation market, offering a streamlined solution for readying residential properties for sale through a comprehensive suite of targeted cosmetic improvements. Founded in 2019 by Cincinnati-born entrepreneurs Derek Shewmon and Nick Lobert, The Doan Home Services II LLC, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, was born from a keen observation of a significant market gap. While working at an auction company, Shewmon and Lobert witnessed firsthand the immense stress and complexity homeowners faced in preparing their properties for sale, often requiring them to juggle multiple vendors and timelines. They also observed real estate professionals frequently stepping into the role of de facto general contractors, a diversion from their primary responsibilities. This critical insight spurred the creation of The Doan franchise, conceived as an "easy button" for home preparation, delivering a white-glove service experience underpinned by a blue-collar work ethic. The company’s core mission is to simplify this often-stressful process for both homeowners and real estate professionals by providing a single point of contact for a multitude of essential services. This innovative approach positioned The Doan franchise uniquely within a burgeoning industry from its inception, officially launching its franchising opportunity in 2023, though one source indicates the first unit was franchised in 2024, marking its strategic expansion into new markets nationwide.

Operating at the intersection of the home services, home preparation, and broader home improvement industries, The Doan franchise taps into a massive and consistently robust market. The overall home improvement and preparation market is currently valued at approximately $535 billion, indicating a vast landscape for growth and service demand. The residential real estate sector itself, a crucial driver for The Doan franchise, saw sales reach $180 billion in the United States in 2022, with an estimated 5.95 million homes sold and a significant professional base of 1.53 million real estate agents. This robust activity underpins a strong and consistent demand for move-in ready homes, a trend that The Doan franchise directly addresses. The market is recognized for its recession-resistant nature, buoyed by the continuous cycle of buying and selling properties regardless of broader economic fluctuations. The Doan franchise has meticulously carved out a unique and valuable niche within this dynamic environment by merging essential real estate needs with contracting services to offer an all-in-one solution. This strategic integration caters directly to a prevalent consumer trend where homeowners increasingly seek professional assistance to maximize their property values prior to sale. The comprehensive range of services provided by The Doan franchise, encompassing home clear-outs, interior and exterior painting, flooring installation, landscaping, and move-out cleaning, is specifically designed to alleviate complexity and streamline the preparation process for both real estate agents and homeowners, thereby enhancing property appeal and marketability.

Embarking on a venture with The Doan franchise requires a structured financial commitment, designed to support comprehensive business establishment and growth. The initial franchise fee for a single unit is set at $60,000, reflecting the value of the established brand, systems, and support infrastructure. For entrepreneurs seeking to expand their footprint from the outset, The Doan franchise offers multi-unit agreements with tiered fees: $110,000 for 2 units, $135,000 for 3 units, $180,000 for 4 units, $225,000 for 5 units, $240,000 for 6 units, $280,000 for 7 units, $320,000 for 8 units, $360,000 for 9 units, and a rate of $35,000 per unit for agreements encompassing 10 or more units. The total initial investment required to open a single The Doan franchise unit ranges from $109,700 to $177,750, with other sources citing slightly varied ranges such as $110,000 to $178,000 or $104,400 to $171,800. These figures comprehensively cover essential initial expenses including necessary equipment, initial supplies, local marketing efforts, and critical initial operating costs to ensure a smooth launch. Ongoing financial obligations include a royalty rate of 7.25% of gross revenue, though one source indicates a royalty fee of 6%. Additionally, franchisees contribute to a brand fund, initially set at 1% of gross revenue, which the franchisor may adjust up to a maximum of 3% to support national brand initiatives. Franchisees are also mandated to allocate funds for local advertising, specifically the greater of $750 per month or 1.5% of gross revenue, a requirement that may similarly increase to the greater of $750 per month or 3% of gross revenue. Certain sources also mention an advertising or national brand fund fee ranging from 2.5% to 6%. The brand fund is strategically designed to provide franchisees with a dedicated marketing team and advanced "soci.AI" tools, potentially reducing their overall marketing expenditure. To qualify for The Doan franchise opportunity, candidates must demonstrate a minimum net worth of $250,000 and possess at least $150,000 in liquid capital, though one source states a minimum liquid capital requirement of $75,000. In recognition of service, a veteran discount of $5,000 is offered for the first unit purchased.

The Doan franchise is structured around an operating model that emphasizes active owner involvement, distinguishing it from semi-absentee franchise opportunities. Franchisees are expected to be deeply engaged in day-to-day operations, fostering strong relationships and ensuring service excellence. The operational framework typically adopts a home-based model combined with a hybrid subcontractor model, requiring minimal staffing, with the average number of employees for a The Doan franchise unit typically ranging from 1 to 3. For instance, a franchisee such as Ian Ouellette employs a project manager and a sales consultant, highlighting the lean operational structure. Franchisees are primarily responsible for managing crews, overseeing project execution, and cultivating robust customer relationships. A cornerstone of success for The Doan franchise is the imperative to build strong, enduring relationships with real estate agents, as these partnerships are considered vital for generating consistent referrals and ensuring recurring revenue streams. The comprehensive training and support system provided by The Doan franchise is designed to equip franchisees with all necessary tools and knowledge. Initial training includes an intensive four-day on-site program conducted at the Cincinnati headquarters, encompassing critical aspects of operations, precise quoting methodologies, proficient use of proprietary technology systems, and the art of delivering the signature The Doan service experience. This initial immersion is complemented by 4 hours of practical on-the-job training and 13 hours of focused classroom instruction. Ongoing training is diligently provided through regular in-person visits, a rich library of instructional videos, and comprehensive materials, ensuring franchisees remain updated with best practices. Furthermore, franchisees receive detailed operational manuals and benefit from continuous support, including weekly calls during the crucial initial launch phase to address challenges and provide guidance. The robust support structure extends to site selection assistance, a meticulously developed business development playbook specifically tailored for building referral partnerships with real estate agents, and an extensive operations manual coupled with a video library for operational guidance. Marketing and launch support is comprehensive, encompassing assistance with digital advertising campaigns, local outreach initiatives, and access to branded marketing materials. Technology training is also a key component, ensuring franchisees are proficient in using The Doan franchise's intuitive proprietary tools, including CRM, quoting systems, and scheduling software. Franchisees benefit from ongoing coaching, which includes regular performance reviews, strategic marketing refreshes, and proactive business strategy calls, fostering continuous improvement. While cooperative advertising is offered, The Doan franchise does not provide financial assistance, lease negotiation assistance, or recruiting assistance.

The financial performance of The Doan franchise, as detailed in Item 19 of its Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), presents a compelling case for potential investors. One analysis prominently highlights an outstanding average revenue performance of $2,718,218, a figure that is reported to be over three times the sub-sector average of $899,503, underscoring the brand's exceptional market penetration and operational efficiency. Further demonstrating this robust financial capability, an affiliate location in 2024 generated impressive gross sales of $2,559,184, translating into a substantial net revenue of $453,258. These figures reflect the brand's ability to drive significant top-line revenue and maintain healthy profit margins. The nationwide average ticket price for The Doan franchise services stands at $7,549, indicating a premium service offering that commands substantial value. This high average ticket price is a critical advantage, as it allows franchisees to focus on executing a smaller number of high-value jobs per month to achieve their financial objectives, rather than needing to manage hundreds of smaller, lower-margin projects. The business model is strategically designed for high-margin, recurring revenue streams, effectively capitalizing on its bundled services and a commitment to fast project turnaround times, which enhances client satisfaction and referral potential. The Doan franchise leverages sophisticated technology throughout its operations, including proprietary quoting algorithms that ensure accuracy and efficiency, alongside advanced digital operations management tools. This technological integration makes the business inherently repeatable and scalable, supporting consistent growth and operational excellence across the network. Franchisees consistently express enjoyment in the transformative aspect of their work, deriving satisfaction from enhancing homes and, crucially, helping clients secure faster and higher offers than anticipated on their properties. The efficient systems and strong market demand inherent in The Doan franchise model are frequently praised for contributing to its high-growth potential, making it an attractive investment for those seeking a scalable business opportunity within the dynamic home services sector.

The Doan franchise has demonstrated a rapid and strategic growth trajectory since its inception, positioning itself as a leader in the home preparation industry. While the company officially began franchising in 2023, with one source indicating the first unit was franchised in 2024, its expansion has been remarkably swift. As of recent data, The Doan franchise has awarded an impressive 187 franchised units and operates 5 company-owned units, although other sources indicate 82 franchised units and 3 company-owned units. A franchisee development director provided further insight, mentioning the award of "around 80 units just this year, with over 165 total awarded in the last 18 months" as of August 2025, signaling an accelerated pace of expansion. The brand maintains an exclusive presence within the United States and is currently registered in all states except California, Hawaii, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Washington, indicating a broad and strategic national footprint. The company expanded its corporate operations into Columbus, Ohio, in August 2021, building upon its successful Cincinnati launch in 2019, further solidifying its regional presence. Specific geographic areas are reported as "sold out," highlighting intense demand and successful market penetration in key regions. These sold-out markets include Huntsville, AL; Birmingham, AL; Denver, CO; Tampa, FL; Cedar Rapids, IA; Omaha, NE; Charlotte, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, NC; Oklahoma City, OK; Pittsburgh, PA; Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, SC; Rochester, NY; Cincinnati, Columbus, OH; St. Louis, MO; Kansas City, MO; Nashville, TN; Austin, TX; Myrtle Beach, SC; Augusta, GA; St. Augustine, FL; Portland, ME; Syracuse, NY; Wilmington, NC; and Savannah, GA. Despite these successes, The Doan franchise is actively opening new franchise opportunities, particularly targeting key Midwest markets such as Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Louisville, Lexington, Nashville, and Knoxville. The official launch of its franchising strategy in November 2023 was significantly bolstered by a strategic partnership with REP'M Group, a full-service franchise development company. This collaboration is designed to accelerate The Doan franchise's national expansion efforts, propelling it towards its overarching objective of becoming the undisputed national leader in the burgeoning home preparation market. The company places a strong emphasis on fostering a dynamic environment where business owners feel empowered and deeply committed to elevating the brand to the number one position in home preparation services.

The ideal candidate for The Doan franchise is an actively involved owner-operator, someone who is eager to take the reins of their business and drive its success through direct engagement. Franchisees consistently praise the founders for cultivating an innovative and supportive brand culture, which contributes significantly to their entrepreneurial journey. A key motivator for many franchisees is the profound satisfaction derived from transforming homes and, more importantly, helping clients achieve faster sales and higher offers than they initially anticipated. The business model of The Doan franchise is specifically engineered to scale more rapidly and efficiently than an independent start-up, providing a structured pathway to growth. Testimonials frequently highlight the professionalism, efficiency, exceptional quality of painting and flooring work, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction that define the brand. While the opportunity offers substantial rewards, it also presents challenges typical for owner-operators, such as managing multiple duties, as cited by franchisee Ian Ouellette. Franchisees are granted a "Designated Territory," typically encompassing approximately 150,000 households, which provides a degree of limited territorial protection. As long as the franchisee adheres to the terms of their agreement and remains in good standing, The Doan franchise will not license or operate another unit within this specific area. However, it is important to note that this protection is not exclusive, meaning The Doan franchise retains the right to operate or license other businesses, including those that might offer competing services, outside of the Designated Territory. Franchisees must obtain prior written consent from the franchisor to operate beyond their designated territory, and any revenue generated from services performed outside their territory must not exceed 15% of their monthly gross revenue. Ideal locations for establishing a The Doan franchise are typically suburban areas characterized by high homeownership rates, median household incomes exceeding $75,000, and growing populations. There are particularly significant opportunities in markets featuring aging housing stock, specifically properties that are 20 years old or more, as these homes often require the cosmetic improvements that The Doan franchise specializes in, making the service highly relevant and in demand.

The Doan franchise presents a compelling investor opportunity within a resilient and high-demand sector of the home services market. Its strong market position, coupled with impressive financial performance metrics, solidifies its appeal for prospective franchisees seeking a scalable and profitable venture. The comprehensive support structure, from intensive initial training at the Cincinnati headquarters to ongoing coaching and technological assistance, ensures that franchisees are well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of the business and achieve sustained success. The reported average revenue performance of $2,718,218, significantly exceeding industry averages, alongside an average ticket price of $7,549, underscores the robust earning potential of The Doan franchise model. The strategic partnership with REP'M Group further accelerates the national expansion, demonstrating a clear vision for market dominance and continued growth. With a unique niche in home preparation services, The Doan franchise capitalizes on consistent demand from both homeowners and real estate professionals, making it a recession-resistant investment. The commitment to empowering business owners and fostering a dynamic environment positions The Doan franchise not just as a service provider, but as a significant force shaping the future of property sales preparation. Explore the complete The Doan franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.