2012
1500
$43,300
$25,000
$88,375
No
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) stands as a beacon of trust, innovation, and excellence in the U.S. real estate sector. Launched in 2012 and franchising since 2013, BHHS has rapidly expanded to over 1,500 offices globally, with nearly 45,000 agents serving diverse markets across 11 countries and territories . As a subsidiary of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, the brand embodies a legacy of financial stability and ethical business practices.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, investing in a BHHS franchise offers an opportunity to align with a globally recognized brand that combines the prestige of its parent company with a comprehensive suite of tools, training, and support. Whether focusing on residential, commercial, or luxury real estate, BHHS provides a platform for franchisees to thrive in a competitive market.
Brand Strength: Leverage the credibility and recognition of the Berkshire Hathaway name, known for its financial prowess and ethical standards.
Comprehensive Support: Benefit from extensive training, marketing resources, and operational guidance to ensure business success.
Diverse Market Reach: Access a broad client base, from first-time homebuyers to luxury property investors, across various regions.
Technological Edge: Utilize advanced tools and platforms that streamline operations and enhance client engagement
Proven Business Model: Join a network with a track record of growth and profitability in the real estate industry.
Established Year:
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices was officially launched in 2012 as part of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. The franchise system began offering franchise opportunities in 2013, rapidly expanding its footprint across the United States.
Founders & Ownership:
BHHS is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, the multinational conglomerate led by Warren Buffett. The brand was created under the guidance of HomeServices of America, Inc., combining the prestige and credibility of Berkshire Hathaway with expertise in real estate brokerage services.
Brand Journey & Company History:
2012: BHHS launched to unify various real estate brokerages under a single, nationally recognized brand.
2013: Began franchising operations in the U.S., attracting entrepreneurs and real estate professionals seeking a trusted brand.
Over the years, BHHS has grown from a new entrant in the real estate market to a leading national franchise network, recognized for professionalism, reliability, and luxury service standards.
The brand emphasizes ethical business practices, agent support, and leveraging Berkshire Hathaway’s legacy of trust.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
BHHS currently operates over 1,500 offices globally, with approximately 278 locations in the United States, of which 252 are franchised units.
The brand has a presence in 11 countries and territories, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East, and the Caribbean, reflecting its ambition to grow internationally while maintaining strong U.S. market dominance.
Industry Category:
BHHS operates in the Real Estate Brokerage & Services sector, offering residential, commercial, and luxury property transactions, along with support services like mortgage, insurance, and title services.
Reputation & Market Positioning:
The BHHS brand is synonymous with trust, integrity, and excellence in real estate, leveraging Berkshire Hathaway’s financial strength and global recognition.
Its franchisees benefit from a well-established brand reputation, comprehensive training, and advanced tools for marketing, operations, and client relationship management.
Other Information:
BHHS franchisees are independently owned and operated, allowing flexibility while enjoying the support of a nationally recognized brand.
The company provides technology platforms, marketing resources, and operational guidance to help franchisees succeed in competitive real estate markets.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices offers a robust support system for its franchisees:
Pre-Launch Training: Initial assistance through phone and webinars, totaling 18-22 hours, covering essential operational and branding aspects .
Launch and Post-Launch Training: Comprehensive training sessions, including orientation and integration into the BHHS system, tailored to the size and needs of the franchisee's business .
Ongoing Support: Continuous access to marketing materials, operational guidance, and technological tools to ensure sustained business growth.
Technology Tools: Access to advanced platforms for client management, property listings, and market analytics, enhancing operational efficiency.
The ideal BHHS franchisee is an entrepreneur who combines business acumen, leadership skills, and a passion for real estate. BHHS seeks franchisees who are capable of growing a successful, independent real estate business while leveraging the brand’s reputation and support system.
Key Characteristics:
Entrepreneurial Spirit:
BHHS franchisees should be self-motivated and driven to build a thriving business.
They must be capable of making strategic decisions, taking initiative, and adapting to market changes.
Experience & Background:
While prior real estate experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory.
Backgrounds in sales, business management, or other client-facing industries are highly valued.
Franchisees should understand team management, customer service, and operational workflows.
Leadership & Management Skills:
Ability to recruit, train, and manage a team of agents.
Strong communication skills to maintain client relationships and team motivation.
Competence in overseeing daily operations, marketing campaigns, and business growth initiatives.
Financial Capability:
Must have sufficient capital for the initial franchise fee, working capital, infrastructure costs, and marketing budget.
Comfortable managing operational expenses while planning for growth and profitability.
Passion for Real Estate:
A genuine interest in property markets, client satisfaction, and the real estate industry.
Commitment to maintaining BHHS’s brand values of trust, integrity, and excellence.
Location & Market Insight:
Ideally, franchisees should select locations with growth potential and strong real estate demand.
Awareness of local market trends, customer preferences, and competition is critical for success.
Commitment to Brand & System:
Willingness to adopt BHHS’s technology platforms, marketing strategies, and operational standards.
Alignment with the parent company’s ethical standards and customer-centric philosophy.
Summary:
The perfect BHHS franchisee is a motivated, financially capable entrepreneur with leadership skills, a passion for real estate, and a commitment to uphold the prestige and standards of the Berkshire Hathaway brand. By combining personal drive with the franchise’s proven system, these franchisees are positioned to thrive in competitive markets and achieve long-term business success.
| Financial Parameter | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $43,300 – $88,375 (depending on location, size, and infrastructure needs) |
| Minimum Investment | $43,300 |
| Infrastructure / Office Setup Cost | Varies by location; typically $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Working Capital | Approximately $30 – $525 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of gross revenue |
| Marketing Budget | Location-dependent; usually included in operational costs |
| Expected ROI | Varies by market; franchisees typically see profitable returns within 1–2 years |
| Break-even Time | 12 – 24 months (based on market conditions and operational efficiency) |
| Potential Revenue Streams | - Commissions from residential and commercial property sales - Sub-franchise fees - Ancillary services such as mortgage, insurance, and title referrals |
