How to Finance a Bloomin’ Blinds Franchise: Mobile Blind Repair
By Anthony Cornella
A Bloomin’ Blinds franchise loan is usually a smaller, more personal financing request than a storefront franchise. The brand runs a mobile service model that sells, installs and repairs blinds, shades and shutters in customers’ homes, so the biggest costs are the franchise fee, a start-up package, a work vehicle and working capital rather than a build-out.
Below we cover the brand’s disclosed costs, its in-house fee financing, the owner requirements it publishes, its SBA Franchise Directory status and how lenders evaluate a mobile window covering business.
US Professional Funding is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by Bloomin’ Blinds; the name is used only to describe the business. Figures from the franchisor’s disclosure document and website can change, loan programs and terms vary by lender and borrower, and every loan is subject to approval. Nothing here is legal, tax or investment advice; review the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and franchise agreement with a franchise attorney and accountant.
Bloomin’ Blinds Franchise Loan at a Glance
- Initial franchise fee: $49,500, plus a $25,000 start-up expense fee, according to Item 7 of the 2022 FDD as reproduced on the franchisor’s investment page.
- Estimated initial investment: $87,100 to $164,500 in the 2022 FDD. The franchisor’s FAQ page cites a higher average start-up range of $105,700 to $182,100, so confirm the current figure.
- Minimum cash: the franchisor says you will need a minimum of $50,000 to open your business.
- Franchisor financing: in-house financing for up to $15,000 of the franchise fee.
- Owner role: full-time involvement in the business.
- Training: a two-week program at the franchisor’s training facility in Dallas.
- Royalty and marketing fees: not published on the franchisor’s pages we reviewed; confirm them in Item 6.
- SBA Franchise Directory: listed under code S3192 with no additional notes.
What Is Bloomin’ Blinds?
Bloomin’ Blinds says it was founded on September 11, 2001, the day its incorporation papers were filed, and that it is still run by its four original founders. The company provides sales, installation and repair of blinds, shades and shutters as a mobile service that comes to the customer.
A repair-plus-sales model. Many window covering businesses only sell new products. Bloomin’ Blinds also repairs existing blinds, which gives owners a lower-ticket service that can lead to larger sales of new shades or shutters.
Why lenders view it the way they do. A mobile service franchise has modest start-up costs and limited hard collateral beyond a vehicle and tools. Lenders lean on the owner’s credit, liquidity, sales ability and plan for generating leads, and less on real estate or equipment.
Bloomin’ Blinds Franchise Costs and Loan Needs
Initial franchise fee. The 2022 FDD figures on the franchisor’s investment page show a $49,500 initial franchise fee. The franchisor’s FAQ says the fee covers a hotel stay during two weeks of training. Lenders treat the fee as an intangible cost, which an SBA 7(a) loan can include.
Start-up expense fee. A separate $25,000 start-up expense fee is listed. The franchisor’s FAQ mentions an initial inventory of parts valued at $2,500; ask exactly what the start-up package includes.
Vehicle. The largest variable cost. The 2022 range runs from $700 to $55,000, reflecting the difference between using a vehicle you already own and buying a new one.
Office, insurance and licenses. The model does not depend on a storefront. Rent, utilities and leasehold improvements run up to $5,000 in the 2022 range, and office expenses, insurance, licenses and professional fees are modest.
Working capital. Additional funds of $10,000 to $20,000 cover the early months while you build a customer base.
Total investment. The 2022 FDD Item 7 table on the franchisor’s investment page totals $87,100 to $164,500:
- Initial franchise fee: $49,500
- Start-up expense fee: $25,000
- Vehicle: $700 to $55,000
- Additional funds: $10,000 to $20,000
- Insurance: $300 to $3,000
- Initial training: $700 to $1,500
- Office expenses: $500 to $1,000
- Professional fees: $400 to $1,500
- Rent, utilities and leasehold improvements: up to $5,000
- Licenses and permits: up to $1,500
- Market introduction program: up to $1,000
- Furniture, fixtures and equipment: up to $500
Because the franchisor’s FAQ cites a higher average start-up range, request the current FDD and base your loan request on its Item 7 table.
Ongoing Fees and How They Affect Your Loan
The franchisor’s pages we reviewed do not list the royalty, marketing contribution or technology fees, so read Item 6 of the current FDD carefully. Ask whether fees are a percentage of sales, flat amounts or minimums, and whether they change over time.
Technology and marketing support. The franchisor provides scheduling and CRM software, marketing materials and a website for each location. Ask which of these carry ongoing fees.
How lenders factor these costs in. When sizing a Bloomin’ Blinds franchise loan, lenders subtract royalties, marketing fees, vehicle costs, insurance and the owner’s draw from projected revenue, then test whether the remaining cash flow covers debt service with a cushion. Flat or minimum fees matter most in the early months, when revenue is still ramping up.
Franchisor Requirements for New Owners
- Minimum cash: the franchisor says you will need a minimum of $50,000 to open your business.
- Full-time commitment: owners are expected to be involved in the business full-time.
- Traits: drive, a customer service orientation, positivity, creativity and honesty.
- Experience: the franchisor provides training on selling, installing and repairing blinds; no specific industry experience is listed.
Training and timeline. Training is a two-week, hands-on program at a 3,000-square-foot facility in Dallas. The franchisor says three months is generally the average time from signing to opening, which leaves a short window to line up financing.
Veterans. The franchisor says it offers financial incentives and discounts for veterans. Our article on franchise financing for veterans covers related options.
Ways to Own a Bloomin’ Blinds
A new territory. The franchisor says it is interested in growing anywhere it does not already have an office. A new territory is financed on projections, your equity and your sales plan. See our page on franchise start-up financing.
Buying an existing territory. A resale comes with a customer list, reviews and revenue history, which lenders can underwrite. The franchisor must approve the transfer under Item 17. Read our article on buying a franchise resale.
Additional territories or vans. Growth can mean a second territory or more installers and vehicles in your existing one. Our multi-unit franchise financing article explains how lenders approach expansion.
Financing Options for a Bloomin’ Blinds Franchise
SBA 7(a) loans. Because the brand is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, a Bloomin’ Blinds franchise loan often takes the form of an SBA 7(a) loan, which can fund the franchise fee, start-up package, vehicle and working capital in one loan.
SBA 504 loans. The 504 program finances owner-occupied real estate and long-lived fixed assets. A mobile service franchise usually has neither, so the 504 program rarely fits.
Conventional term loans. Borrowers with strong credit and liquidity may qualify for a conventional business loan, often used for growth after the first year.
Equipment and vehicle financing. A work van or truck, ladders, tools and repair equipment can be financed separately, which keeps cash free for marketing and working capital. See franchise equipment financing and leasing.
Working capital and lines of credit. A line of credit helps cover marketing, payroll for installers and product orders for larger shutter or shade jobs before customers pay in full. Learn about franchise working capital.
Franchisor financing. The franchisor offers in-house financing for up to $15,000 of the franchise fee. Any franchisor note will be considered by your lender when calculating debt service, so disclose it up front and read Item 10 for the terms.
Retirement funds. Some buyers use retirement savings to fund their equity. Read about using a 401(k) to buy a franchise and the rules that apply.
Seller financing on resales. A seller may carry part of the price on an existing territory. Seller notes are typically subordinate to the senior loan, and loan programs may limit their terms.
SBA Loans for Bloomin’ Blinds Franchisees
The SBA Franchise Directory lists brands whose franchise agreements have been reviewed for SBA eligibility. SBA lenders generally require a brand to appear on the directory before making an SBA-guaranteed loan.
Bloomin’ Blinds’ listing. Bloomin’ Blinds is listed under code S3192 with no additional notes. In plain English, the brand’s franchise agreement has cleared SBA review without special conditions flagged on the directory. The listing does not approve any borrower, and status can change, so confirm it when you apply.
Program limits. The SBA 7(a) program maximum is currently $5 million, though program rules can change. A single mobile territory needs far less.
Application tips. In a Bloomin’ Blinds franchise loan package, show the source of your equity, explain how the franchisor’s fee financing fits with your loan, include a vehicle quote and present a lead generation plan. Our SBA loan calculator can help with early payment estimates; results are for planning only and are not an offer or approval.
How Lenders Evaluate a Bloomin’ Blinds Deal
Personal credit and financial history. With little hard collateral, personal credit carries extra weight. Lenders review credit, tax returns and a personal financial statement, and typically require a personal guarantee.
Net worth and liquidity. Lenders want to see the franchisor’s minimum cash plus reserves to cover personal expenses while the business ramps up.
Industry and management experience. Sales, customer service, trades or home improvement experience all help, as does a plan to hire installers as volume grows.
Business plan and projections. Model lead sources, appointments, close rates, the mix of repairs and new product sales, average job size and seasonality. Keep assumptions conservative for the first year.
The FDD and franchise agreement. Lenders review the term, renewal, transfer conditions, territory and Item 10 financing. Check whether Item 19 includes financial performance representations. See how lenders read a Franchise Disclosure Document.
Historical financials for resales. For an existing territory, expect to provide several years of sales reports, job records and tax returns.
The Vehicle and Tools: A Mobile Business’s Main Assets
New or owned vehicle. The 2022 vehicle range shows how much a buyer’s choice affects the loan. Using a vehicle you already own lowers the start-up loan; buying a new one adds collateral but increases payments.
Branding and fit-out. Ask whether vehicle graphics, shelving or racks are required, and whether those costs are included in Item 7.
Replacement planning. A work vehicle wears out. Build a replacement plan into your budget so you are not forced into an emergency purchase.
Multi-Unit Growth and Development Agreements
Growth in a mobile service franchise often comes first from adding installers and vehicles, then from additional territories. Lenders typically want a year or more of stable results before funding a second territory, and they will underwrite combined cash flow. If you sign for multiple territories, read the development schedule and the consequences of missing it.
Real-World Scenarios
A career changer using a vehicle they own. A former sales manager uses a personal truck, contributes savings and finances the rest of the franchise fee, start-up package and working capital with an SBA 7(a) loan. The lender focuses on credit and a lead generation plan.
A buyer using franchisor fee financing. A buyer combines the franchisor’s in-house fee financing with savings and a small loan. The lender counts the franchisor note in debt service and asks for extra reserves.
An owner adding a van and installer. After a strong first year, an owner finances a second vehicle and hires an installer, using equipment financing and a line of credit for product orders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Basing a loan request on an outdated Item 7 range
- Forgetting to count franchisor fee financing in total debt
- Buying a new vehicle when an existing one would work at the start
- Underestimating personal living expenses during the ramp-up
- Skipping Item 6 because royalty figures are not on the website
- Ignoring seasonal swings in window covering demand
For more pitfalls, read service contractor loan mistakes.
Next Steps to Finance Your Bloomin’ Blinds Franchise
Step 1: Request the current FDD. Note the fee, start-up package, royalty, Item 7 range and term.
Step 2: Confirm your cash. Make sure you have at least the franchisor’s minimum plus personal reserves.
Step 3: Decide on a vehicle. Choose between using a vehicle you own and buying one, and get quotes.
Step 4: Talk with a financing specialist. Discuss SBA, conventional and franchisor fee financing together.
Step 5: Build your plan. Prepare projections, a marketing plan and a personal budget.
Step 6: Apply and close. Submit your package and align closing with training and the roughly three-month path to opening.
Bloomin’ Blinds Franchise Loan FAQs
How much does a Bloomin’ Blinds franchise cost?
The 2022 FDD Item 7 range on the franchisor’s investment page is $87,100 to $164,500. Its FAQ cites a higher average start-up range of $105,700 to $182,100, so check the current FDD.
What is the Bloomin’ Blinds franchise fee?
$49,500 in the 2022 FDD figures, plus a separate $25,000 start-up expense fee.
What royalty does Bloomin’ Blinds charge?
The royalty is not published on the franchisor’s pages we reviewed. Item 6 of the FDD lists it.
How much cash do I need?
The franchisor says you will need a minimum of $50,000 to open your business.
Does Bloomin’ Blinds offer financing?
Yes. It offers in-house financing for up to $15,000 of the franchise fee. Item 10 describes the terms.
Can I get an SBA loan for a Bloomin’ Blinds franchise?
Yes, if you qualify. The brand is on the SBA Franchise Directory under code S3192 with no additional notes.
Can I finance the vehicle separately?
Yes. Vehicle and equipment financing can cover a work van or truck and tools.
Can a first-time business owner qualify?
Yes, if the franchisor approves you and you meet lender standards. Training is provided, and lenders weigh sales experience, credit and liquidity.
Is it a home-based business?
It is a mobile service. The 2022 Item 7 range allows for little or no rent, so an owner may be able to start without a storefront.
How long does it take to open?
The franchisor says about three months on average from signing to opening.
Can I buy an existing Bloomin’ Blinds territory?
Yes, when one is for sale and the franchisor approves the transfer.
Final Thoughts
Bloomin’ Blinds has a relatively modest start-up budget, but lenders still want solid credit, real reserves and a plan for generating leads. Check the current FDD, factor in any franchisor fee financing and choose your vehicle strategy before you apply.
US Professional Funding helps franchise owners finance start-ups, vehicles, equipment and working capital for home service concepts. Learn more about our franchise financing solutions and our service contractor financing programs.
