(800) 949-0401 
A Place at Home Franchise Loan: The Complete Financing Guide for A Place at Home Franchise Owners
The senior care industry is booming, and A Place at Home is one of the fastest-growing franchise brands helping meet that demand. With over 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every single day in the United States, the need for in-home senior care services has never been greater. If you are considering investing in an A Place at Home franchise, understanding the full cost structure and available financing options is essential to launching a profitable business.
This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what an A Place at Home franchise costs, how to finance it, and how Crestmont Capital can help you get funded - even if you do not have perfect credit or a large down payment ready.
In This Article
- What Is A Place at Home?
- A Place at Home Franchise Costs Breakdown
- Financing Options for A Place at Home Franchises
- How Crestmont Capital Helps Franchise Owners
- The Application Process
- Real-World Financing Scenarios
- Franchise Funding at a Glance
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Next Steps to Get Funded
- Conclusion
What Is A Place at Home?
A Place at Home is a senior care franchise headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, founded in 2012 by Dustin and Jerod Helgeson. The franchise provides non-medical in-home care services designed to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. Services include companion care, personal care, care management, and senior living alternatives - which helps families navigate housing and care transitions for aging loved ones.
Unlike many senior care franchise models, A Place at Home focuses on a person-centered approach that combines traditional homecare with consulting and advisory services. This four-pronged model - which the company calls "We are CARE" (Compassionate, Accountable, Respectful, and Ethical) - sets it apart from single-service competitors.
As of 2026, A Place at Home has grown to over 50 franchise territories across the United States, with continued aggressive expansion planned. According to the SBA's market research resources, the home healthcare services market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate exceeding 8% through 2030. This makes A Place at Home an attractive franchise opportunity for investors seeking stable, recession-resistant businesses.
A Place at Home Franchise Costs Breakdown
Understanding the total investment required is the first step in planning your A Place at Home franchise financing. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs you should expect.
Initial Franchise Fee
The initial franchise fee for an A Place at Home territory ranges from $49,500 to $75,000, depending on the size and population density of the territory. This fee grants you the right to operate under the A Place at Home brand, access proprietary systems, and receive initial training and support.
Many franchisors offer discounted fees for veterans and multi-unit development agreements, so be sure to inquire about these during the discovery process.
Total Initial Investment Range
The total investment to open an A Place at Home franchise - including the franchise fee, startup costs, and working capital - typically falls in the range of $78,000 to $150,000. This makes it one of the more accessible franchise opportunities in the senior care industry, which often requires $200,000 to $500,000 or more for competing brands.
| Cost Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $49,500 | $75,000 |
| Initial Training | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Office Setup and Equipment | $2,000 | $10,000 |
| Technology and Software | $1,000 | $3,500 |
| Marketing and Advertising Launch | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| Working Capital (6-12 months) | $15,000 | $35,000 |
| Insurance and Licenses | $2,500 | $6,500 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $1,000 | $5,000 |
| Total Investment Range | $79,000 | $155,000 |
Ongoing Fees and Royalties
In addition to the initial investment, A Place at Home franchisees pay ongoing fees that include:
- Royalty Fee: Approximately 5-6% of gross revenue
- Marketing/Brand Fund: Up to 2% of gross revenue
- Technology Fee: Typically a fixed monthly fee of $150-$250
These ongoing fees are typical for senior care franchises and help support centralized marketing, technology development, and franchisor support systems.
Ready to Finance Your A Place at Home Franchise?
Get pre-qualified in minutes. Rates from 6.99% APR. No obligation to proceed.
Apply for Franchise FinancingFinancing Options for A Place at Home Franchises
There are several financing routes available to A Place at Home franchise buyers. Choosing the right one depends on your credit profile, liquid assets, the amount you need to borrow, and your preferred repayment timeline.
1. SBA 7(a) Loans
The most popular financing route for franchise purchases is the SBA 7(a) loan program. These government-backed loans offer favorable terms including:
- Loan amounts up to $5 million
- Repayment terms of 10-25 years
- Lower down payment requirements (often 10-20%)
- Competitive interest rates (prime + 2.75% to 4.75%)
SBA 7(a) loans can cover the franchise fee, startup costs, working capital, and equipment. A Place at Home is a recognized franchise brand that many SBA-approved lenders are familiar with, which can streamline the approval process. According to Forbes, SBA loans consistently rank as the best long-term financing option for franchise businesses due to their low rates and long repayment terms.
2. Conventional Business Term Loans
If you need faster funding or prefer to avoid SBA paperwork, a conventional small business loan can cover your A Place at Home franchise startup costs. Term loans typically offer:
- Loan amounts from $25,000 to $500,000+
- Repayment terms of 1-7 years
- Funding in as little as 1-5 business days
- Less paperwork than SBA loans
3. Business Line of Credit
A business line of credit is ideal for managing the working capital needs of a growing senior care franchise. Instead of receiving a lump sum, you draw funds as needed - perfect for covering payroll between client payments, adding caregiver staff as your client base grows, or handling unexpected operational expenses.
Lines of credit range from $10,000 to $500,000 and typically carry revolving terms, meaning you can repay and re-draw as needed.
4. Equipment Financing
While A Place at Home is primarily a service-based business, you will still need vehicles, computers, software systems, medical monitoring equipment, and office furnishings. Equipment financing lets you spread these costs over time while preserving cash flow for operational needs.
5. Franchisor Financing Programs
Some franchisors offer in-house financing or have relationships with preferred lenders who specialize in their franchise model. A Place at Home franchisees should inquire directly with the franchisor about any financing incentives, deferred payment options, or preferred lender arrangements currently available.
6. ROBS - Rollover for Business Startups
If you have a 401(k) or IRA with significant funds, a ROBS arrangement allows you to use retirement funds to invest in a franchise without incurring early withdrawal penalties or taxes. This can be combined with an SBA loan for maximum leverage.
7. Friends, Family, and Angel Investors
Some franchise buyers supplement their financing with loans or equity from personal connections. If you go this route, always formalize the arrangement with a written agreement to protect all parties involved.
Not Sure Which Loan Type Fits Your Situation?
Our franchise financing specialists can review your goals and match you with the best option.
Talk to a Franchise Loan SpecialistHow Crestmont Capital Helps Franchise Owners
Crestmont Capital is one of the top-rated business lenders in the United States, helping franchise owners across the country secure the capital they need to launch and grow. Here is why thousands of entrepreneurs choose Crestmont Capital for their franchise financing needs.
Speed and Simplicity
Many franchise buyers are on tight timelines - between signing the franchise agreement and hitting the required launch date, there is often limited time to secure financing. Crestmont Capital can process and fund most applications within 1-5 business days, compared to weeks or months with traditional banks.
Flexible Credit Requirements
Not every franchise buyer has a perfect credit score. Crestmont Capital offers bad credit business loans and works with borrowers across a range of credit profiles - including those who have been denied by traditional lenders. While stronger credit scores unlock better rates, Crestmont has options for borrowers with scores as low as 550.
Multiple Loan Products Under One Roof
Whether you need an SBA loan, a term loan, a line of credit, or equipment financing, Crestmont Capital has the products to cover every phase of your A Place at Home franchise journey - from initial launch to multi-territory expansion.
Franchise-Specific Expertise
Crestmont Capital's lending specialists understand the franchise model and the unique financial profile of senior care businesses. They know what documentation franchisors require, how to structure loan packages for franchise acquisitions, and which loan products deliver the best ROI for your specific situation.
Nationwide Reach
A Place at Home franchises are available throughout the United States, and Crestmont Capital lends in all 50 states. Wherever your target territory is located, Crestmont can fund your franchise.
Transparent Terms and No Hidden Fees
One of the biggest frustrations franchise buyers report with financing is unexpected fees and confusing terms. Crestmont Capital provides clear, upfront disclosures on all loan offers so you know exactly what you are committing to before you sign.
The Application Process: Step by Step
Applying for franchise financing through Crestmont Capital is straightforward. Here is what to expect from start to funding.
Step 1: Pre-Qualification (5 Minutes)
Start with our online pre-qualification form at offers.crestmontcapital.com/apply-now. You will provide basic information about your business (or planned business), the loan amount you need, and your financial background. This step does not affect your credit score.
Step 2: Documentation Submission
Once pre-qualified, you will submit supporting documents. For franchise buyers, this typically includes:
- Signed Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
- Business plan and financial projections
- 3 months of personal bank statements
- Personal tax returns (2-3 years)
- Government-issued ID
- Personal financial statement
- Proof of any equity injection or down payment
Step 3: Underwriting Review
Our underwriting team reviews your application, verifies documentation, and assesses your creditworthiness. For franchise loans, they also review the FDD and evaluate the franchise brand's track record. This step typically takes 24-72 hours.
Step 4: Loan Offer
You receive a loan offer outlining the approved amount, interest rate, term, and any conditions. You can accept, negotiate, or decline with no obligation.
Step 5: Closing and Funding
Once you accept the offer, final documents are signed and funds are disbursed directly to your account - typically within 1-3 business days. For SBA loans, the timeline extends to 2-4 weeks due to government review requirements.
Real-World Financing Scenarios
To help you understand how franchise financing works in practice, here are five illustrative scenarios based on common A Place at Home franchise situations.
Scenario 1: The Career Changer With Savings
Maria, a 48-year-old former hospital administrator from Colorado, has $40,000 in savings and a credit score of 710. She wants to open an A Place at Home franchise in a mid-sized suburban market with a total investment estimate of $110,000.
Solution: Maria uses $25,000 as a down payment (23%), combines it with a $85,000 SBA 7(a) loan at 8.5% over 7 years. Monthly payment: approximately $1,350. She uses the remaining $15,000 in savings as working capital while her client base grows.
Scenario 2: The Veteran Entrepreneur
James, a 54-year-old Army veteran from Texas, qualifies for the SBA Veterans Advantage program, which reduces the franchise fee and lowers SBA guarantee fees. His total investment is $95,000 and he has $20,000 saved.
Solution: James secures a $75,000 SBA 7(a) loan with reduced fees through the Veterans Advantage program. Combined with his savings, he launches his A Place at Home franchise with ample working capital and a lower monthly payment than standard borrowers.
Scenario 3: The Multi-Territory Buyer
Rebecca, a 39-year-old entrepreneur from Georgia, wants to purchase development rights for three A Place at Home territories at a discounted multi-unit rate. Her total investment is $185,000.
Solution: Rebecca uses a combination of a $130,000 SBA 7(a) loan and a $25,000 business line of credit from Crestmont Capital, plus $30,000 from personal funds. The line of credit gives her flexible access to additional capital as she launches each territory on a staggered schedule.
Scenario 4: The Credit-Challenged Investor
David, a 45-year-old from Ohio, has solid home equity and business experience but a 595 credit score due to a medical debt issue resolved three years ago. Banks have turned him down.
Solution: Crestmont Capital qualifies David for an $80,000 term loan at a slightly higher rate, using his home equity as partial collateral. The franchise fee is covered and he launches successfully. As his business credit builds over 12 months, he refinances to a lower rate.
Scenario 5: The Franchise Resale Buyer
Tamara, a 52-year-old from Florida, finds an existing A Place at Home franchise territory for sale at $180,000 - which includes an established client base, caregiver staff, and proven revenue. This resale is more expensive than a greenfield launch but carries significantly lower risk.
Solution: Tamara secures a $145,000 SBA 7(a) loan with favorable terms because the existing business has 2 years of financial records demonstrating positive cash flow. Lenders view an established franchise resale as significantly lower risk than a startup.
A Place at Home Franchise Funding at a Glance
A Place at Home Franchise: Key Financing Facts
Sources: A Place at Home FDD (2025), SBA, U.S. Census Bureau
The Senior Care Market Opportunity
One of the most compelling reasons to consider an A Place at Home franchise is the sheer scale of the market opportunity. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, the population of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to nearly double from 56 million in 2020 to over 94 million by 2060. By 2030, all Baby Boomers will be at least 65 years old.
The demand for in-home care specifically is growing faster than institutional care options like assisted living and nursing homes. A survey by AARP found that 77% of adults 50 and older want to remain in their current home as they age - creating strong, sustained demand for the exact services A Place at Home provides.
For investors, this demographic reality makes senior care one of the most defensible business categories available. Unlike retail or restaurant franchises that depend on consumer discretionary spending, senior care is driven by medical necessity and family obligation - two of the most durable demand drivers in the economy.
Bloomberg has noted that senior care franchises specifically have shown remarkable resilience through economic downturns, with many recording revenue growth even during recessions when other business categories contracted sharply.
A Place at Home's Competitive Differentiators
In a crowded senior care landscape, A Place at Home has carved out a distinct position with its four-service model:
- In-Home Care: Companion and personal care services delivered in the client's home
- Care Management: Professional care coordination for complex medical situations
- Senior Living Alternatives: Consulting services to help families navigate housing transitions
- Staffing: Placement of qualified care professionals with families and facilities
This diversified model creates multiple revenue streams, which strengthens the financial profile of each franchise location and reduces dependence on any single service category.
What to Expect Financially as an A Place at Home Franchisee
Before taking out a loan to fund any franchise, it is critical to understand what the financial performance of existing locations looks like. A Place at Home publishes financial performance data in its Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Before signing any agreement, you should review the FDD Item 19 carefully with a franchise attorney and accountant.
In general, senior care franchises in the $50,000-$150,000 investment range have reported average gross revenues of $500,000 to $1.5 million per year in mature markets. Profit margins in senior care typically run 15-25% at the EBITDA level before debt service, suggesting meaningful income potential once the franchise is established.
Most senior care franchises reach profitability within 12-24 months of launch, with revenue growing steadily as the franchisee builds referral relationships with hospitals, physicians, elder law attorneys, and discharge planners.
Key Drivers of Franchise Performance
Your success as an A Place at Home franchisee will depend significantly on:
- Referral network development: Building strong relationships with healthcare professionals who refer clients
- Caregiver recruitment and retention: Attracting and keeping quality caregivers who deliver excellent client experiences
- Territory demographics: Markets with larger senior populations and higher household incomes tend to produce stronger results
- Franchisee engagement: Active owner-operators who are personally invested in the community consistently outperform absentee investors
How to Strengthen Your Franchise Loan Application
Whether you are applying for an SBA loan or a conventional term loan, taking these steps before applying will significantly improve your approval odds and the terms you receive.
1. Know Your Credit Score
Pull your personal credit report from all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and resolve any errors or derogatory items. Most SBA lenders prefer scores of 650+, while conventional lenders at Crestmont Capital work with scores starting at 550.
2. Prepare a Strong Business Plan
Even though A Place at Home provides significant brand and operational support, lenders want to see your own business plan. Include a market analysis of your target territory, a competitive assessment, projected revenue and expenses for 3 years, and a clear description of how you plan to market the business.
3. Document Your Equity Injection
Most franchise lenders require that you inject at least 10-30% of the total investment from personal funds. Document where these funds come from with 3 months of bank statements. Borrowed funds do not typically count as equity injection unless secured by real estate.
4. Reduce Existing Debt
Pay down credit cards and other revolving balances before applying. Lenders calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and lower existing debt improves your borrowing capacity.
5. Show Industry or Management Experience
Senior care lenders like to see that the borrower has relevant experience - whether in healthcare management, business ownership, or direct senior care. Highlight your background in your loan application and business plan.
A Place at Home Franchise: Common Financing Questions
Here are some of the most common questions franchise buyers have about financing their A Place at Home investment.
Can I Finance the Franchise Fee?
Yes, the franchise fee can typically be financed as part of an SBA 7(a) loan or conventional term loan. Some SBA lenders may require that the franchise fee be paid from personal funds as part of the equity injection requirement - confirm this with your lender before applying.
How Long Does it Take to Get Funded?
With Crestmont Capital, conventional term loans can be funded in 1-5 business days after approval. SBA loans take longer - typically 2-6 weeks from application to funding, due to the SBA review and guarantee process.
What Credit Score Do I Need?
SBA loans typically require a minimum credit score of 650. Crestmont Capital's conventional loan programs work with scores starting at 550. Higher scores unlock better rates and terms.
Can I Finance a Multi-Territory Development Agreement?
Yes. SBA 7(a) loans can fund multi-unit franchise development agreements, and Crestmont Capital's term loans can also accommodate larger amounts for multi-territory buyers.
Is Working Capital Included in the Loan?
SBA 7(a) loans can include working capital as part of the total loan amount. Conventional term loans can also cover working capital. Alternatively, a business line of credit is an excellent ongoing working capital solution that runs parallel to your term loan.
Frequently Asked Questions About A Place at Home Franchise Financing
What is the total cost to open an A Place at Home franchise? +
The total investment to open an A Place at Home franchise ranges from approximately $79,000 to $155,000. This includes the initial franchise fee ($49,500-$75,000), startup costs, initial marketing, working capital, and miscellaneous opening expenses. The exact amount depends on territory size, local market conditions, and your individual business plan.
What is the A Place at Home franchise fee? +
The initial franchise fee for A Place at Home ranges from $49,500 to $75,000 depending on the territory. The franchisor occasionally runs promotions for veterans, multi-unit buyers, and candidates with relevant healthcare backgrounds. Contact A Place at Home directly or review the current FDD for exact figures.
Can I get an SBA loan for an A Place at Home franchise? +
Yes. A Place at Home is a recognized franchise brand, and SBA 7(a) loans are an excellent option for franchise financing. These loans offer repayment terms of up to 10-25 years, loan amounts up to $5 million, and lower down payment requirements than conventional loans. Working with an experienced SBA lender like Crestmont Capital can streamline the process significantly.
How much money do I need to invest to qualify for franchise financing? +
Most lenders require 10-30% of the total investment as an equity injection from personal funds. For an A Place at Home franchise with a total investment of $100,000, this translates to $10,000-$30,000 from your own resources. These funds can come from savings, retirement accounts (via ROBS), or equity in owned property. Borrowed funds typically do not count toward the equity injection requirement.
What credit score do I need to finance an A Place at Home franchise? +
SBA lenders typically prefer credit scores of 650 or higher. Crestmont Capital's conventional loan programs work with scores as low as 550. Higher credit scores generally unlock lower interest rates and better terms. If your score is below 650, consider spending 3-6 months improving it before applying, or speak with a Crestmont Capital specialist about options designed for credit-challenged borrowers.
How fast can I get funded for a franchise loan? +
Crestmont Capital's conventional term loans fund in 1-5 business days after approval. SBA 7(a) loans take longer - typically 3-6 weeks from application to funding. If you are on a tight timeline between signing your franchise agreement and your required launch date, a conventional loan from Crestmont Capital may be a better fit than waiting for SBA approval.
What documents do I need to apply for franchise financing? +
For franchise financing, you will typically need: the signed Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), a business plan with financial projections, 3 months of personal bank statements, 2-3 years of personal tax returns, a government-issued ID, a personal financial statement, and documentation of your down payment funds. Crestmont Capital's loan specialists will guide you through the exact requirements for your specific loan type.
Does A Place at Home offer any financing to franchisees? +
Some franchisors offer in-house financing or preferred lender relationships. Contact A Place at Home directly to ask about any current financing incentives, deferred payment arrangements, or partnerships with preferred lenders. Even if franchisor financing is available, comparing it against options from independent lenders like Crestmont Capital is always advisable to ensure you are getting the best terms.
Is an A Place at Home franchise a good investment? +
A Place at Home operates in one of the strongest growth markets in the U.S. economy - senior care. The aging Baby Boomer population is creating sustained, growing demand for the services A Place at Home provides. That said, any franchise investment carries risk, and success depends on your commitment, the strength of your territory, and your ability to build referral relationships. Review the FDD carefully with a franchise attorney and consult with existing A Place at Home franchisees before making a decision.
How long does it take to become profitable with an A Place at Home franchise? +
Most senior care franchises reach profitability within 12-24 months of launch. A Place at Home's established brand, training systems, and marketing support can accelerate this timeline. Active owner-operators who aggressively build referral networks often reach break-even faster than the industry average. Review Item 19 of the current FDD for specific financial performance data from existing A Place at Home locations.
Can I buy an existing A Place at Home franchise rather than starting from scratch? +
Yes, franchise resales are common and can be an attractive option. Buying an existing A Place at Home franchise means you acquire an established client base, trained staff, and a proven revenue history. Lenders often view resales more favorably than startup franchises because of the reduced risk profile. The purchase price for an existing territory varies based on revenue, growth trajectory, and market conditions. SBA loans and conventional business acquisition loans are both viable financing options for resales.
What are the ongoing royalty fees for A Place at Home? +
A Place at Home charges an ongoing royalty of approximately 5-6% of gross revenue, plus a marketing/brand fund contribution of up to 2% and a monthly technology fee. These fees are standard for senior care franchises and are disclosed in detail in the FDD. Be sure to factor all ongoing fees into your financial projections when planning your loan repayment capacity.
How many A Place at Home franchise locations are there? +
As of 2026, A Place at Home has grown to over 50 franchise territories across the United States and is actively expanding. The franchisor operates in most major U.S. metropolitan areas and mid-sized markets. Contact A Place at Home directly to find out which territories are currently available in your target area.
Does Crestmont Capital offer fast business loans for franchise buyers? +
Yes. Crestmont Capital offers fast business loans that can fund in as little as 24-72 hours for qualified applicants. If you are on a tight timeline between signing your franchise agreement and your required launch date, Crestmont Capital's fast funding capability can be a critical advantage over traditional bank financing.
What is the A Place at Home training program like? +
A Place at Home provides comprehensive initial training at its Omaha, Nebraska headquarters, typically lasting one week. Training covers operations, caregiver recruitment, client acquisition, care management processes, technology systems, and marketing. Ongoing support is provided through field consultants, regional training events, and an online portal. The training investment is typically $3,000-$5,000 in travel and lodging costs on top of what the franchisor covers.
Next Steps: How to Get Your A Place at Home Franchise Funded
Research the Franchise
Download A Place at Home's FDD, speak with existing franchisees via the franchisee validation process, and attend a Discovery Day at corporate headquarters. Verify the market opportunity in your target territory.
Assess Your Finances
Pull your credit report, tally your liquid assets, and determine how much equity you can inject. Calculate your monthly capacity to service debt based on projected revenues and expenses.
Get Pre-Qualified
Apply for pre-qualification at Crestmont Capital. This 5-minute process does not affect your credit score and gives you a clear picture of your financing options before you commit to the franchise.
Sign Your Franchise Agreement
Once your financing is lined up, sign the franchise agreement with A Place at Home. Begin the territory development, staffing, and marketing processes as directed by the franchisor.
Fund and Launch
Complete the loan closing process with Crestmont Capital, receive your funds, and pay the franchise fee. Complete your training program, hire your initial staff, and open your A Place at Home franchise for business.
Start Your A Place at Home Franchise Journey Today
Join thousands of business owners who have funded their dreams with Crestmont Capital. Apply in minutes.
Apply for Franchise Financing NowConclusion
An A Place at Home franchise represents a compelling opportunity in one of the most durable growth markets in the American economy. With a total investment ranging from approximately $79,000 to $155,000, it is accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs - especially those who leverage smart financing strategies.
Whether you pursue an SBA 7(a) loan, a conventional term loan, a business line of credit, or a combination of these tools, the key is to start early, get pre-qualified before signing your franchise agreement, and work with a lender who understands the franchise model.
Crestmont Capital has helped thousands of franchise owners across the country secure the funding they need to launch and grow. Our fast approval process, flexible credit requirements, and franchise-specific expertise make us the ideal lending partner for your A Place at Home journey.
If you are ready to explore your financing options, apply now at Crestmont Capital. You can also explore our resources on small business loans, SBA loan programs, and franchise business loans to learn more about your options.
The senior care market is booming. The question is whether you will be part of it. With the right franchise and the right financing partner, you can build a meaningful business that serves your community and generates lasting financial returns for you and your family.
