Glass Doctor Franchise Loan: The Complete Financing Guide for Glass Doctor Franchise Owners

Glass Doctor Franchise Loan: The Complete Financing Guide for Glass Doctor Franchise Owners

Breaking into the glass services industry with a proven brand behind you is an attractive opportunity - but it takes real capital to get there. A Glass Doctor franchise gives entrepreneurs access to one of the most established names in residential, commercial, and automotive glass repair and replacement. With franchise fees starting at $59,900 and total startup costs ranging from $153,000 to $323,000, understanding your financing options is critical before you sign a franchise agreement.

Glass Doctor has been franchising since 1977 and operates under the Neighborly family of brands, giving franchisees the backing of one of the largest home services networks in North America. Average gross revenue across franchise locations exceeds $1 million annually, making this one of the stronger revenue opportunities in the home services space. But getting from application to open doors requires smart financing - and that is exactly what this guide covers.

Whether you are looking at an SBA loan, equipment financing, a business line of credit, or alternative funding solutions, this comprehensive guide breaks down every financing pathway for Glass Doctor franchise owners. You will learn what lenders look for, how to structure your funding, and how Crestmont Capital can help you secure the capital you need to launch or grow your Glass Doctor business.

Glass Doctor Franchise Overview

Glass Doctor is a nationally recognized glass service franchise that has been helping homeowners, businesses, and drivers repair and replace glass since 1962. The franchise model launched in 1977, and today there are over 165 operating units across the United States and Canada. Under the Neighborly umbrella - which also includes brands like Mr. Electric, The Grounds Guys, and Aire Serv - Glass Doctor franchisees benefit from cross-brand referrals and a massive support network.

The business model is built around three core service segments: residential glass (windows, mirrors, shower doors, patio doors), commercial glass (storefronts, office partitions, glass tabletops), and automotive glass (windshield repair and replacement). This diversification is a key strength - when automotive claims slow down, residential demand often picks up, and vice versa. It gives franchisees multiple revenue streams rather than dependence on a single customer type.

Glass Doctor has earned repeated recognition from Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500, Franchise Business Review's Top 200, and Franchise Times Top 400. The brand's average gross revenue of over $1,076,000 substantially outperforms the subsector average by approximately 46%, according to the company's Franchise Disclosure Document. For investors evaluating franchise opportunities in the home services sector, those numbers stand out.

The franchise operates on a territory-based model, with each franchisee receiving an exclusive or protected territory based on population size. Territories with larger populations may come with slightly higher franchise fees, but they also represent greater market potential from day one. Franchisees can choose between the Home and Business option, the Auto option, or a combination of both - allowing for a customized business model based on local market demand and owner preferences.

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Glass Doctor Franchise Costs Breakdown

Understanding the full cost structure of a Glass Doctor franchise is the first step toward building an accurate financing plan. The initial investment range is $152,900 to $323,100, depending on which service option you select and the size of your territory. Here is a detailed breakdown of what goes into those numbers:

Initial Franchise Fee

The base franchise fee is $59,900. This grants you the right to operate under the Glass Doctor brand, access proprietary training, use the company's systems and marketing materials, and receive ongoing franchisor support. If your territory requires a population base larger than the standard minimum, the fee increases by $200 per additional 1,000 residents. This fee is paid directly to Glass Doctor at signing and is typically non-refundable.

Vehicle and Equipment Costs

Glass Doctor is a mobile service business. Franchisees need properly equipped service vehicles outfitted with glass racks, tools, and safety equipment. Vehicle costs range from $2,000 to $50,000 depending on whether you are purchasing new or used and how many vehicles you plan to operate at launch. Equipment, supplies, and initial inventory for the Auto Business Start-Up Package typically run between $27,500 and $65,000.

Working Capital and Operating Reserves

Lenders and franchisors alike want to see that you have adequate working capital to sustain operations through the ramp-up period. Glass Doctor's FDD estimates you should budget three months of additional funds to cover payroll, rent (if applicable for a retail or showroom location), insurance, and other recurring expenses. This figure typically falls in the range of $20,000 to $50,000 depending on your market and operating model.

Ongoing Fees

Beyond startup costs, Glass Doctor franchisees pay ongoing royalties of 4% to 7% of gross sales, plus a National Brand Fund contribution of 2% to 4% of gross sales. These fees fund the franchisor's corporate support, national advertising campaigns, and technology infrastructure. When projecting cash flow for lender purposes, these fees must be factored into your monthly operating expenses.

Glass Doctor Franchise Investment Summary

Cost ItemLow EstimateHigh Estimate
Initial Franchise Fee$59,900$59,900
Vehicle(s)$2,000$50,000
Equipment, Supplies and Inventory$27,500$65,000
Insurance$3,000$8,000
Technology and Software$1,500$5,000
Training and Travel$2,000$8,000
Working Capital (3 months)$20,000$50,000
Total Estimated Investment$152,900$323,100

Financing Options for Glass Doctor Franchisees

Most Glass Doctor franchise owners do not pay for everything out of pocket. The franchise's investment range puts it well within the territory where multiple financing options are available - from government-backed SBA loans to alternative lenders and equipment financing programs. Here is a breakdown of the most commonly used funding sources for Glass Doctor franchise startups and expansions.

Traditional Bank Loans

Conventional small business loans from banks and credit unions are one option, but they can be difficult to secure for new franchise owners without substantial collateral and strong credit history. Banks typically want to see at least two to three years of business tax returns, a minimum personal credit score of 680 to 720, and collateral that covers a significant portion of the loan amount. For a first-time franchise owner, traditional bank financing alone is often not the right fit.

SBA Loans

SBA loans are the gold standard for franchise financing and represent the most popular path for Glass Doctor franchise owners. The SBA 7(a) program offers loans up to $5 million with repayment terms up to 25 years (for real estate) and up to 10 years for working capital and equipment. Because Glass Doctor is a Neighborly-branded franchise and Neighborly is an SBA-recognized brand, the approval process is often streamlined through SBA-preferred lenders.

Equipment Financing

Glass service requires specialized vehicles and equipment - cutting tools, glass racks, suction lifts, safety gear, and more. Equipment financing allows you to fund these specific purchases without tying up working capital. Lenders use the equipment itself as collateral, which typically means lower down payments and competitive interest rates. For Glass Doctor franchisees, separating equipment costs from the overall loan package can simplify your financing structure and improve approval odds.

Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit is ideal for managing working capital during the ramp-up phase when revenue is still building. Rather than taking a lump sum, you draw from the line as needed and only pay interest on what you use. For Glass Doctor franchisees managing seasonal fluctuations between residential, commercial, and auto glass demand, having access to a credit line provides financial flexibility without taking on unnecessary debt.

Franchisor Financing

Glass Doctor has noted in its FDD that it may agree to finance a portion of the initial franchise fee for qualified candidates based on creditworthiness and available collateral. This is not guaranteed and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but it represents a potential source of supplemental funding when combined with third-party financing.

Alternative and Non-Bank Lenders

For franchise owners who do not meet traditional bank or SBA credit requirements, alternative lenders offer faster approvals and more flexible qualification standards. These lenders typically look at revenue potential, business plan strength, and overall credit profile rather than rigid credit score thresholds. Interest rates may be higher, but speed and accessibility make them valuable for franchise owners who need to move quickly or bridge gaps between other funding sources.

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SBA Loans for Glass Doctor Franchise

The SBA 7(a) loan program is the most widely used financing tool for franchise startups in the United States, and for good reason. It offers some of the most competitive interest rates available to small businesses, long repayment terms that keep monthly payments manageable, and significant government backing that reduces lender risk - making approvals more accessible for first-time franchise owners.

For a Glass Doctor franchise with total startup costs in the $153,000 to $323,000 range, a typical SBA 7(a) loan might cover 70% to 90% of the total investment, with the borrower contributing 10% to 30% as equity injection. On a $200,000 loan with a 10-year term, monthly payments at current SBA-range interest rates would typically fall in the range of $2,000 to $2,500 - a manageable figure against the franchise's average gross revenue of over $1 million annually.

To qualify for an SBA loan as a Glass Doctor franchisee, lenders generally look for:

  • Personal credit score of 650 or higher (680+ preferred by most lenders)
  • At least 10% liquid equity injection from personal funds
  • A solid business plan with financial projections
  • Clean personal financial history with no recent bankruptcies or tax liens
  • Relevant management or business experience (industry experience is a plus but not required)

The SBA also maintains a Franchise Registry that includes Neighborly-branded franchises like Glass Doctor. When a franchise is on the registry, SBA-approved lenders can often skip certain due diligence steps related to the franchise agreement itself, which speeds up the review process. According to the SBA, franchise loans processed through preferred lenders can receive decisions in as little as a few days to a few weeks, compared to several months for standard processing.

The SBA 504 loan program is another option worth exploring if your Glass Doctor location involves significant real estate or large equipment purchases. The 504 program offers fixed rates and long terms specifically for major asset purchases, and it can be combined with a 7(a) loan to cover different components of your startup package. For more details, see our complete guide to SBA loans for franchise businesses.

Key SBA Loan Advantages for Glass Doctor Franchisees

  • Loan amounts from $50,000 to $5 million
  • Repayment terms up to 10 years for working capital and equipment
  • Competitive interest rates - typically Prime + 2.25% to 4.75%
  • Lower down payment requirements compared to conventional loans
  • Glass Doctor's Neighborly brand recognized by SBA lenders

Equipment Financing for Glass Doctor

Equipment is central to Glass Doctor's service delivery. Every franchise unit needs properly outfitted service vehicles, cutting equipment, glass racks, safety tools, and technology for scheduling and dispatch. Equipment financing separates these purchases from your main business loan, often resulting in lower rates and better terms because the equipment itself serves as collateral.

For Glass Doctor franchisees, equipment financing commonly covers:

  • Service vehicles (vans or trucks) - typically $25,000 to $50,000 new
  • Vehicle glass racks and storage systems
  • Glass cutting and scoring tools
  • Suction cups and handling equipment for large panes
  • Power tools and installation equipment
  • Tablet computers or mobile devices for field technicians
  • Software subscriptions for dispatch, invoicing, and CRM

Equipment loans typically offer terms of 2 to 7 years with fixed monthly payments, making cash flow planning straightforward. Lenders can often approve equipment financing in 24 to 48 hours with minimal documentation, which is valuable when you need to take delivery of vehicles or tools before your grand opening date.

An important strategic consideration: keeping equipment financing separate from your SBA or working capital loan can preserve your borrowing capacity for future needs. If you need an additional vehicle 18 months into operations, having clean, unused equipment credit capacity makes that expansion much easier to finance. Explore Crestmont Capital's equipment financing options for Glass Doctor businesses.

Lender Qualification Requirements

Understanding what lenders look for before you apply saves time and helps you put together the strongest possible application. While requirements vary by lender and loan type, here is what most Glass Doctor franchise financing applications need to include:

Credit Score

For SBA loans, most lenders require a minimum personal credit score of 650, with better rates and terms available above 700. For conventional business loans, expect thresholds of 680 to 720. Alternative lenders may work with scores as low as 580 in some cases, though terms will be less favorable. Check your credit report before applying and address any errors or derogatory marks that can be resolved quickly.

Equity Injection

Most lenders require the borrower to contribute at least 10% to 20% of the total project cost from personal funds - not borrowed money. For a $250,000 Glass Doctor startup package, that means having $25,000 to $50,000 in liquid personal assets available. This demonstrates financial commitment and reduces lender risk. Some lenders will accept equity from retirement accounts (rolled over through a ROBS structure), gifts from family members (with documentation), or proceeds from the sale of other assets.

Business Plan

A lender-ready business plan for your Glass Doctor franchise should include an executive summary, market analysis for your territory, operational plan, marketing strategy, management team background, and three to five years of financial projections (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow). Glass Doctor's corporate team can provide performance data from other franchisees that will strengthen your projections.

Personal Financial Statements

Lenders will review your personal financial statement, which lists assets and liabilities, to assess your net worth and overall financial health. This is a standard SBA requirement and helps lenders evaluate repayment capacity beyond just your credit score.

Franchise Agreement and FDD

SBA lenders and most institutional lenders require a copy of your signed franchise agreement and the most recent Glass Doctor FDD. These documents confirm the legitimacy of the franchise relationship, outline your territory rights, and detail the fee structure that will affect your cash flow projections.

Glass Doctor franchise technicians carrying a large glass panel to a commercial building with a branded service van parked nearby

Tip: Pre-Qualify Before Selecting a Territory

Getting pre-qualified for financing before you finalize your Glass Doctor territory selection gives you a clear budget and shows Glass Doctor's development team that you are a serious, funded candidate. Many top territories go to the most financially prepared applicants.

How Crestmont Capital Helps Glass Doctor Franchise Owners

Crestmont Capital is a nationwide business lender that specializes in helping franchise owners secure the funding they need to launch and grow. Whether you are opening your first Glass Doctor location or expanding to a second territory, Crestmont Capital has the lending relationships, expertise, and product range to structure a financing solution that works for your specific situation.

Here is what makes Crestmont Capital the right financing partner for Glass Doctor franchise owners:

Access to Multiple Lenders

Rather than being locked into a single bank's criteria, Crestmont Capital works with a network of SBA-approved lenders, alternative lenders, and equipment financing companies. This means your application gets matched to the lender most likely to approve it at the best terms - not just the one closest to our office. For franchise owners who have been turned down elsewhere, this broad access often opens doors that seemed closed.

Franchise-Specific Expertise

Crestmont Capital's team understands the unique characteristics of franchise financing - including how to present FDD data to lenders, how to structure equity injection requirements, and how to navigate SBA's franchise registry process for Neighborly brands. This expertise translates into faster approvals and fewer back-and-forth documentation requests. Learn more in our complete guide to franchise business loans.

Fast Business Loans When You Need Speed

Some Glass Doctor opportunities require moving quickly - whether a prime territory becomes available, equipment is available at a discount, or you need to close your deal before another candidate steps in. Crestmont Capital offers fast business loans with streamlined applications and rapid funding timelines for qualified borrowers.

Full Product Suite

From SBA loans and equipment financing to business lines of credit and long-term business loans, Crestmont Capital can handle every financing layer of your Glass Doctor startup or expansion. Rather than juggling multiple lenders with different requirements and timelines, you work with one team that coordinates the entire process.

Support for All Credit Profiles

Not every Glass Doctor franchise candidate has a perfect credit history. Crestmont Capital offers options for business owners across the credit spectrum, including bad credit business loans and programs designed to help entrepreneurs with past credit challenges access the funding they need to build a successful business.

Industry Statistics: Glass Services Market

  • The U.S. glass and glazing contractors market is valued at over $10 billion annually
  • Auto glass replacement alone generates approximately $3.5 billion per year in the U.S.
  • Glass Doctor's average franchisee gross revenue exceeds $1,076,000
  • The franchise has been operating for over 45 years with 165+ active locations
  • Estimated investment payback period: 3.2 to 5.2 years
  • Royalty structure: 4% to 7% of gross sales

Sources: IBISWorld, Glass Doctor FDD, Franchise Business Review

The Loan Application Process

Knowing what to expect during the financing process reduces stress and helps you stay on track toward your Glass Doctor opening date. Here is a step-by-step overview of how the process typically works when you work with Crestmont Capital:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Start with a free consultation with a Crestmont Capital franchise financing specialist. You will discuss your Glass Doctor territory, estimated investment amount, personal financial profile, and timeline. This helps us identify the best loan products and lenders for your situation before you invest time in paperwork.

Step 2: Pre-Qualification

Based on your initial profile, we will provide a pre-qualification estimate - including likely loan amounts, terms, and rates. Pre-qualification does not require a hard credit pull and gives you a realistic picture of your borrowing capacity. Many Glass Doctor candidates use this step to inform their territory selection discussions with Glass Doctor's development team.

Step 3: Document Assembly

Once you decide to move forward, you will gather the required documentation. For SBA franchise loans, this typically includes personal tax returns (2-3 years), personal financial statement, resume or biography, franchise agreement, FDD, business plan with projections, and bank statements. Crestmont Capital provides a detailed checklist and reviews your documents before submission to catch issues early.

Step 4: Lender Submission and Review

Your package is submitted to the appropriate lender or lenders. During underwriting, the lender reviews your credit history, financial statements, business plan, and franchise documents. Additional information or clarification may be requested. Crestmont Capital stays in communication with the lender throughout this phase to keep things moving.

Step 5: Approval and Closing

Once approved, you will receive a commitment letter outlining loan terms. Legal review follows (you will want your own attorney to review loan documents), and then you proceed to closing. At closing, loan proceeds are disbursed according to the schedule - often directly to Glass Doctor for the franchise fee and to vendors for equipment.

Step 6: Launch and Repayment

With funding in place, you can finalize your territory, complete Glass Doctor's training program (Phase I: 1.5 days, Phase II: 10 days in Waco, Texas or virtually), acquire your vehicles and equipment, hire your initial team, and open for business. Monthly loan payments typically begin 30 to 60 days after closing, giving you a brief window to generate initial revenue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to open a Glass Doctor franchise?

The total estimated initial investment for a Glass Doctor franchise ranges from $152,900 to $323,100 depending on the service option chosen (Home and Business, Auto, or combined) and territory size. The initial franchise fee is $59,900, and the remaining investment covers vehicles, equipment, insurance, technology, training, and working capital reserves.

Can I get an SBA loan for a Glass Doctor franchise?

Yes. Glass Doctor is part of the Neighborly family of brands, which is recognized by SBA-approved lenders. SBA 7(a) loans are one of the most common financing tools for Glass Doctor franchise owners, offering loan amounts up to $5 million, competitive rates, and terms up to 10 years for working capital and equipment.

What credit score do I need to finance a Glass Doctor franchise?

Most SBA lenders look for a minimum personal credit score of 650, with better terms available for scores of 700 and above. Alternative lenders may work with scores as low as 580, though rates will be higher. Reviewing and improving your credit before applying can meaningfully affect the terms you receive.

Does Glass Doctor offer in-house financing?

Glass Doctor may offer to finance a portion of the initial franchise fee for qualified candidates based on creditworthiness and available collateral. However, this is not guaranteed and is evaluated case by case. Most franchisees use a combination of personal funds and third-party financing from SBA lenders, equipment financiers, and alternative lenders.

How much can a Glass Doctor franchise owner earn?

Glass Doctor's FDD reports average gross revenue of over $1,076,000 across franchise locations - approximately 46% above the subsector average. Estimated owner-operator earnings range from $75,490 to $94,363 annually based on gross sales of approximately $629,000. Actual results vary based on market, experience, and operational performance.

What types of loans work best for Glass Doctor franchise financing?

The most effective financing strategy for Glass Doctor typically combines an SBA 7(a) loan for the franchise fee and working capital, plus a separate equipment financing facility for vehicles and tools. This structure optimizes loan terms and preserves working capital flexibility. A business line of credit can complement both for managing cash flow between large jobs or during seasonal fluctuations.

How long does it take to get a loan for a Glass Doctor franchise?

Timelines vary by loan type. SBA loans processed through preferred lenders typically take 2 to 6 weeks from application to approval, with additional time for closing. Equipment financing can be approved in 24 to 48 hours. Alternative business loans may fund in as little as a few business days. Working with an experienced franchise lender like Crestmont Capital helps accelerate the process by ensuring your application is complete and well-presented from the start.

What is the royalty fee for Glass Doctor?

Glass Doctor charges a royalty fee of 4% to 7% of gross sales, plus a National Brand Fund contribution of 2% to 4% of gross sales. These ongoing fees should be incorporated into your financial projections when calculating cash flow and debt service capacity for lender approval.

How many Glass Doctor franchise locations are there?

Glass Doctor operates over 165 franchise locations across the United States and Canada. The brand has been franchising since 1977 and is part of the Neighborly family, one of the largest home services franchise networks in North America with dozens of complementary brands.

Can I finance a Glass Doctor franchise with bad credit?

It is more challenging but not impossible. Alternative lenders specialize in working with borrowers who have less-than-perfect credit histories. Factors like strong cash reserves, a solid business plan, relevant industry experience, and collateral can help offset credit score concerns. Crestmont Capital works with borrowers across the credit spectrum and can help identify realistic options based on your specific profile.

Is Glass Doctor a good franchise investment?

Glass Doctor ranks consistently in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500, Franchise Business Review's Top 200, and Franchise Times Top 400. Its average gross revenue of over $1 million per location, diversified service model across residential, commercial, and auto glass, and backing from the Neighborly network make it a well-regarded franchise in the home services space. As with any franchise investment, individual results depend heavily on market conditions, operator quality, and execution. Due diligence - including reviewing the FDD with a franchise attorney - is essential before investing.

What is the Glass Doctor training program like?

Glass Doctor's initial training program consists of two phases. Phase I is approximately 1.5 days and covers foundational brand and system knowledge. Phase II is a 10-day program that can take place at Glass Doctor's training facility in Waco, Texas or virtually. Training covers technical glass installation and repair, business operations, marketing, customer service, and use of the company's software systems. Ongoing support and coaching continue after launch.

What is the minimum cash required to open a Glass Doctor franchise?

Glass Doctor requires a minimum of approximately $40,000 in liquid personal funds to be considered for franchise ownership. However, most lenders will want to see equity injection of 10% to 20% of the total investment (which could be $15,000 to $65,000 depending on your loan structure), plus adequate cash reserves to demonstrate financial stability beyond the minimum.

Can I use a retirement account to fund my Glass Doctor franchise?

Yes, through a structure known as ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups), you can use eligible retirement funds such as a 401(k) or IRA to fund your equity injection or even fully capitalize your franchise without tax penalties or early withdrawal fees. ROBS requires working with a specialized ROBS provider and has specific IRS compliance requirements. It is a legitimate and frequently used funding strategy for franchise startups.

What happens if my Glass Doctor business needs more capital after opening?

Once your Glass Doctor franchise is generating revenue, additional financing becomes easier to access. A business line of credit can address working capital needs between large commercial jobs. Equipment financing can fund additional vehicles or tools as you grow. If you want to open a second territory, expansion loans and SBA loans are available. Crestmont Capital's team can help existing franchisees structure growth financing at every stage.

Conclusion

Opening a Glass Doctor franchise is a serious investment - but it is also a serious opportunity. With over 45 years of franchising history, a proven revenue model, and the backing of the Neighborly network, Glass Doctor offers franchise owners a business with genuine staying power in a recession-resilient industry. Glass breaks. Windshields crack. Windows fail. The demand for professional glass services is not going away, and Glass Doctor has built a system that helps franchisees capture that demand effectively.

The key to making it work is smart financing. Whether you pursue an SBA loan, equipment financing, a business line of credit, or a combination of funding sources, having the right capital structure from day one sets the foundation for sustainable growth. Undercapitalized franchises struggle; well-funded ones thrive. Getting your financing right is as important as selecting the right territory or completing your training.

According to Forbes, franchise businesses have historically shown stronger survival rates than independent startups, partly because of the systems, training, and brand recognition that franchisors provide. Glass Doctor's infrastructure and support make it a strong candidate for investors who want a proven model without starting from scratch. And according to CNBC, home services businesses have demonstrated consistent demand even during economic downturns, making service franchises an attractive category for small business investment.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows consistent growth in construction, renovation, and home improvement spending - all sectors that generate glass repair and replacement demand. For Glass Doctor franchisees, this macro backdrop supports long-term business viability beyond just brand strength.

Next Steps to Finance Your Glass Doctor Franchise

  1. Review the Glass Doctor FDD with a qualified franchise attorney
  2. Calculate your total investment range and available personal equity
  3. Pull your personal credit report and address any issues
  4. Prepare your business plan and financial projections
  5. Contact Crestmont Capital for a free franchise financing consultation
  6. Get pre-qualified before finalizing your territory selection with Glass Doctor
  7. Submit your full loan application and gather required documentation
  8. Close on your loan and begin the Glass Doctor onboarding process

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.