Fish Window Cleaning Blog

Starting a window cleaning franchise can be a strategic path for entrepreneurs looking to own a business with lower overhead and a proven support system. In addition to the independence that comes with ownership, franchisees benefit from established systems, brand recognition, and ongoing guidance from a trusted company like Fish Window Cleaning®.

If you're considering a window cleaning franchise investment, you’re entering an industry that’s both stable and growing. The global cleaning services market was valued at approximately $416 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $617 billion by 2030, reflecting steady, long-term demand for professional cleaning services. Within that broader market, window cleaning services alone generated an estimated $93.2 billion in 2024 and are expected to grow to $128.7 billion by 2030, highlighting a strong opportunity for franchise owners focused on essential, recurring services.

Of course, one of the biggest questions prospective franchisees face is how to finance a window cleaning franchise. The good news is that launching a window cleaning business franchise often requires less upfront capital than many other franchise models, and there are multiple financing options available to help you get started.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to finance a window cleaning franchise, explain common funding options, and outline how Fish Window Cleaning supports franchisees throughout the process.

Understanding the Costs of a Window Cleaning Franchise

Before exploring financing options, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for when you buy a window cleaning franchise. With a Fish Window Cleaning franchise, startup costs typically range between $106,800 and $171,500. These costs generally include the franchise fee, equipment, initial marketing, insurance, and working capital for the early stages of operation.

The franchise fee typically falls between $50,000 and $75,000, depending on territory and timing. Compared to franchise models that require storefront leases, large inventories, or costly build-outs, a window cleaning franchise investment keeps overhead relatively low. There is no need for retail space, expensive renovations, or large product stockpiles.

Lower overhead can help franchisees reach operational stability more efficiently than in many other industries. To qualify financially, Fish Window Cleaning looks for franchise candidates with a minimum net worth of $100,000 and $75,000 in liquid capital, ensuring franchisees have the financial foundation needed to grow comfortably.

Financing Options for Your Franchise Investment

Most entrepreneurs don’t fund a franchise entirely with cash—and that’s completely normal. Today, there are several established ways to buy a window cleaning franchise, depending on your financial profile and goals.

• • Bank Loans: Traditional banks and credit unions often offer loans for franchise purchases because franchises are generally viewed as lower-risk than independent startups. In many cases, lenders may finance 70–80% of the total investment, depending on credit history and financial strength.
• • SBA Loans: Small Business Administration loans are a popular option for franchise buyers. SBA-backed loans can finance up to 90% of startup costs and typically offer longer repayment terms and competitive interest rates. The SBA 7(a) program is commonly used for franchise funding.
• • ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups): Entrepreneurs with retirement savings may use a ROBS arrangement to invest funds from a 401(k) or IRA without early withdrawal penalties or immediate tax consequences. Some franchisees use ROBS alongside traditional loans to reduce overall debt.
• • Home Equity: Home equity loans or lines of credit can provide access to capital at relatively low interest rates. However, because your home is used as collateral, this option carries additional risk and should be considered carefully.
• • Business Partners: Some franchisees choose to work with partners, family members, or investors who contribute capital in exchange for ownership interest or agreed-upon repayment terms.
• • Personal Savings: Using personal savings can reduce borrowing needs and demonstrate commitment to lenders. Even a partial personal investment can strengthen your financing application.

Preparing Your Finances Before Applying for a Franchise Loan

Lenders want to see that you’re financially prepared and organized. Taking steps in advance can significantly improve your chances of approval.

Start by reviewing your credit profile. Most lenders prefer a credit score of 680 or higher, with stronger scores often leading to better loan terms. Addressing outstanding issues early can make a meaningful difference.

Next, prepare a personal financial statement outlining assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. Lenders will also request tax returns from the past two to three years, bank statements, and documentation of available capital.

Even with an established franchise system, a business plan is still important. Your plan should outline local market conditions, operational expectations, and financial projections. Fish Window Cleaning provides support materials and guidance to help franchisees build lender-ready plans.

Territory research is also essential. Fish Window Cleaning offers protected territories defined by zip codes, allowing franchisees to grow without internal competition.

Tips for Securing Franchise Funding Successfully

Financing becomes easier when you understand how lenders evaluate franchise applicants.

Work with lenders who specialize in franchise financing whenever possible. These institutions understand franchise models and may already be familiar with Fish Window Cleaning’s system.

Be prepared to invest some of your own capital. Many lenders expect franchisees to contribute 10–20% of the total investment, demonstrating commitment and financial responsibility.

Use the franchise’s track record to your advantage. Fish Window Cleaning brings over 45 years of experience, more than 270 franchise territories, and a history of serving over 200,000 residential and commercial customers nationwide. This proven model, combined with recurring service demand, can help support more stable revenue projections.

Why Choose a Window Cleaning Franchise?

A window cleaning franchise offers a compelling mix of low overhead, recurring demand, and operational simplicity. Compared to many service businesses, staffing needs are manageable, equipment costs are modest, and scheduling is predictable. 

Fish Window Cleaning franchisees also benefit from structured training, operational support, and ongoing guidance, helping owners build their businesses without sacrificing personal time. With a model designed around standard business hours, many franchisees avoid nights, weekends, and holidays.

With the right financial preparation and support system in place, owning a window cleaning franchise business can be a practical and rewarding path to entrepreneurship.

Ready to start your own window cleaning franchise? Explore our financing options and take the first step toward owning your business today.