The Grounds Guys Franchise — Veteran Cost & Requirements (2026)
The Grounds Guys transforms how communities think about landscaping services. Instead of the typical guy-with-a-truck operation, this franchise delivers professional, systemized grounds care that commercial properties and homeowners can count on year-round. It's built for leaders who want to run the business, not mow the lawns.
Investment at a Glance
Military Fit Score
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What Is The Grounds Guys?
If you are a United States or Canadian honorably discharged Veteran (as such term is defined by us in our sole discretion) who meets our qualification...
Quick Facts
Founded
2020
Franchising Since
2010
Total Locations
228
Headquarters
Texas
Location Type
Commercial Location
Semi-Absentee
No
SBA Approved
Yes
The Grounds Guys Franchise Cost Breakdown (2026)
The total investment to open a The Grounds Guys franchise starts at $74,570. Here's what that covers and what you'll need to qualify.
Investment Breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 | $35,000 +$350 per 1,000 additional population above minimum |
| Software Fee | $1,920 | $1,920 |
| Vehicle | $7,000 | $82,000 |
| Equipment, Supplies & Inventory | $21,000 | $41,000 |
| Insurance | $1,200 | $3,000 |
| Advertising & Promotional and Local Marketing Spending | $550 | $15,000 |
| Training, Travel, Lodging & Food | $2,700 | $5,850 |
| Deposits, Permits & Licenses | $50 | $3,000 |
| Professional Fees | $150 | $2,000 |
| Real Estate | $0 | $6,000 |
| Additional Funds - 3 Mo. | $5,000 | $30,000 |
The total investment for a Grounds Guys franchise ranges from $74,570 to $224,770, with a $35,000 franchise fee (20% veteran discount available). This covers your initial equipment package, vehicle graphics, marketing materials, and comprehensive training program. The 5-6% ongoing royalty is on the higher end but includes access to Neighborly's technology platform, lead generation system, and ongoing business coaching. What sets this investment apart is the protected territory model — you get exclusive rights to a population base of 40,000-60,000 people, giving you a defined market to build recurring relationships. The franchise is SBA-approved, which can help with financing the initial investment and equipment purchases. Unlike many service franchises, there's no specific liquid capital requirement, making it more accessible for qualified candidates.
Beyond your initial investment, you'll pay a 5-6% of Gross Sales royalty on gross sales plus a 2% of Gross Sales marketing contribution. The true monthly cost of ownership includes additional fees most buyers don't account for until they're already in.
→ We break down your realistic monthly overhead during your consultation.
What Do The Grounds Guys Franchise Owners Make?
The Grounds Guys includes an Item 19 Financial Performance Representation in their Franchise Disclosure Document — which means they voluntarily share revenue and earnings data from their franchise system.
This franchise provides detailed financial performance data in their FDD. During your consultation, we'll help you understand the full picture and connect you directly with the franchisor and current owners to discuss real-world results.
Not every franchise provides this level of transparency. The fact that The Grounds Guys does tells you something about their confidence in franchisee performance.
But raw numbers don't tell the full story. What matters is how those numbers apply to your market, your investment level, and your operating model.
Want the Full Financial Picture?
We've analyzed The Grounds Guys's FDD and can walk you through what the numbers actually mean for someone with your background and budget.
See If This Franchise Fits Your GoalsFree 30-min consultation. We earn nothing unless you find the right fit.
Why Veterans Succeed with The Grounds Guys
Veterans consistently outperform in The Grounds Guys system because the business demands operational discipline that becomes second nature in military service. Managing crew schedules, equipment maintenance, and quality control across multiple job sites requires the same systematic thinking used in military operations. The ability to maintain standards under pressure — whether it's a last-minute commercial client request or weather disruptions — is where military experience shows its value. The franchise model rewards consistency and process adherence over individual heroics, which aligns with how veterans are trained to operate. Success comes from building systems, training teams, and executing reliably — not from being the best landscaper yourself.
Military Fit Analysis
Military Fit Score
Best Suited For
This franchise is essentially running a small logistics operation with multiple crews, equipment, and daily route optimization — skills that translate directly from military experience. Your day involves coordinating personnel, managing equipment maintenance schedules, and ensuring quality standards across multiple job sites simultaneously. The systematic approach to operations mirrors military SOPs, from crew briefings to equipment checks to customer communication protocols. The leadership component is crucial here. You're not just managing employees; you're building a team that represents your brand in customers' most personal spaces — their homes and businesses. Veterans typically excel at this because they understand how individual performance impacts the entire mission. The professional image requirements (uniformed crews, branded vehicles, consistent service delivery) align with military standards of presentation and accountability. With the 20% veteran discount on the franchise fee, your initial investment drops by $7,000, and the Neighborly network actively supports veteran franchisees through their VetFran program with additional resources and mentorship opportunities.
🎖️ Veteran & Military Discount
The Grounds Guys participates in the VetFran program and offers a 20% discount on the franchise fee for qualified veterans, active duty, and military spouses.
If you are a United States or Canadian honorably discharged Veteran (as such term is defined by us in our sole discretion) who meets our qualifications for purchasing a franchise, we will discount the Minimum Initial Franchise Fee ($35,000) by 20%.
This discount applies to the initial franchise fee. Combined with SBA veteran loan programs and VA small business resources, your actual out-of-pocket investment could be significantly lower than the listed range.
→ We calculate your true cost — including available discounts, financing options, and veteran-specific programs — during your consultation.
Is The Grounds Guys the Right Franchise for Your Background?
Every veteran's transition is different. Your MOS, leadership experience, and financial goals all factor into which franchise makes sense. We've helped veterans across every branch find franchise businesses that match their strengths — not just their budget.
Find Your Franchise FitTalk to a veteran franchise consultant who's been where you are.
The Grounds Guys Training & Support
Initial training includes a comprehensive multi-day program at corporate headquarters in Waco, Texas, covering business management, technology systems, marketing, and service procedures. You'll learn the operational systems, customer management software, and business development strategies that differentiate Grounds Guys from local competition. Ongoing support includes a dedicated franchise coach, regional meetings, annual conferences, and access to Neighborly's online resource center. The technology platform handles scheduling, routing, customer communication, and financial tracking, allowing you to focus on business growth rather than administrative tasks. As part of the Neighborly family, you also benefit from cross-promotional opportunities with other home service brands.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Grounds Guys
How much does a The Grounds Guys franchise cost?
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Does The Grounds Guys offer a veteran or military discount?
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Is The Grounds Guys a home-based franchise?
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Can you run a The Grounds Guys franchise semi-absentee?
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What do The Grounds Guys franchise owners make?
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Is The Grounds Guys a good franchise for veterans?
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What is The Grounds Guys's FDD and where can I read it?
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Your Next Chapter Starts with a Conversation
You've done the research. You've looked at the numbers. Now the question is whether The Grounds Guys — or one of 500+ franchises in our network — is the right fit for where you're headed.
In 30 minutes, we'll cover:
- Whether this franchise matches your skills & goals
- What the FDD reveals that most buyers miss
- Your true cost after veteran discounts & financing
- 2-3 alternative franchises worth comparing
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