Maids by Trade - Franchise Q & A

How was your franchise/opportunity originally conceived and started?

After many years of being the leading cleaning company in the Pacific Northwest. As a local company we were often perceived as a national brand. Upon doing some research and after multiple efforts to buy out some competitors, we learned that we have a solid and competitive business model.  More importantly, Maids by Trade is a company built on a spotless reputation. The company decided to make its business model available for franchises only after fully analyzing feasibility and putting together a robust team of professionals to support market expansion and brand propagation.

What was your original vision for your company? How has that changed over time?

Initially, we focused on just delivering the best cleaning services in our area, while providing employment locally. Maids by Trade led for twelve consecutive years with great customer reviews. This solidified the company and gave national exposure on TV and other media outlets. Soon after, Maids by Trade started facilitating a business model that focuses on each franchise owner (franchisee). Maids by Trade franchisees provide employment opportunities as well as top notch cleaning while benefiting from investing with the brand.

What do you believe is the single most important factor when choosing a franchise?

Maids by Trade believes that it comes down to being an opportunity in ALL aspects of the business. That is, for investing, creating employment opportunities, remaining a leading service provider, being an eco-responsible brand, etc.

Why should someone choose your franchise over other similar franchises?

Deciding on what might be the “best” option comes down to the franchisee’s own research and findings. As for Maids by Trade, we’re committed to our clients, investors, employees, and every member of the Maids by Trade family. We advise to ask as many questions as possible. Our team has over 40 years of combined experience in the house cleaning industry. While we use the best technology, custom built software, and other tools, it clearly depends on knowledge, and our team has it.  

What makes your industry attractive?

House cleaning service businesses are attractive for a number of reasons. There is constant growth and demand for services — it’s a year-round business with little or no down time, other than higher demand during holiday and spring seasons. The industry also demands the use of eco-responsible cleaning products, tools, and cleaning practices.

What types of qualities do you look for in potential franchisees?

We seek individuals that have a sense of commitment, integrity, and dedication, both to their business and client care.

What do your franchise fees and royalties cover?

The franchise fee covers the license to operate under Maids by Trade, a dedicated page for the new business and a complete market analysis. The royalties cover the exclusive use of: territory, software, company systems, marketing, ongoing training, support, and other developments.

How do territories work for your franchisees?

Upon completing research on a target territory for feasibility, we isolate an exclusive territory where the new franchisee will do business under the Maids by Trade brand. Once a territory is assigned, then it’s managed and monitored using our proprietary software.

Why has your franchise model been successful?

Making a franchise business model successful depends on a number of factors, and Maids by Trade has continued to build a stronger network of franchisees, business partners and professionals to assure every new Maids by Trade office has the best chances.

Where do you see your franchise in 5 years and 10 years?

We strongly believe that Maids by Trade will continue to expand to other territories nationally, as well as internationally.

What is your favorite advice for new franchisees to help them succeed?

Upon completing paperwork, franchisees have LOTS of guides, templates, scripts, etc. So, the favorite advice is “Take it easy, you’re not alone, we will work on your new business together.”

What would you tell potential franchisees that may be nervous about the financial burdens of starting a franchise?

Every new business venture has its challenges, especially when doing it alone. On the other hand, with Maids by Trade, we work with every franchisee to reduce the stress during the startup period. More importantly, the Maids by Trade team will be by the franchisee’s side the whole time.

Can you explain your financial assistance?

We offer assistance in helping franchisees get their finances together and a full financial assessment prior to startup. We can offer help to launch the new business through our Optimal franchise, where we invest up to $21,000 in a new Maids by Trade office. This option requires industry experience. Also, Maids by Trade offers a total royalty credit of $10,000 to qualified (if we specifically designate in writing) armed service veterans and minority owners.

On average, how long does it take to start a new franchise from the franchisees point of view?

It takes about 5 to 6 weeks to open a Maids by Trade office after signing the Franchise Agreement. For most franchisees the opening takes approximately 50 days from the first point of contact with Maids by Trade. In some instances, it could take longer, and it’s up to the franchisee to speed up the process.

What was your background and experience before founding this franchise?

In addition to plenty of experience in management and software development, I had previously worked in the cleaning industry for many years. Then, I used to own a cleaning service before deciding to franchise the Maids by Trade business model. Furthermore, in 2009 I collaborated with Green Seal in developing a national standard for the house cleaning industry.