HomeVestors Reviews: What Real Investors Say in 2025
Jul 29, 2025
HomeVestors reviews are starting to get a lot of attention. You know the company; the one whose name you’ve probably seen before—those “We Buy Ugly Houses” signs are everywhere. They’ve built a huge national brand around buying homes fast and flipping or wholesaling them for profit. But just because they’re well-known doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for every investor.
If you’re considering joining HomeVestors as a franchisee, selling your house to them, or just trying to understand how their model works, this review will give you the full breakdown. We’ll look at how the franchise works, what it costs, what real users are saying, and whether it’s actually worth the investment.
And if you’re brand new to real estate? Don’t worry, you don’t need to spend $100K on a franchise to get started. We’ll show you a smarter, lower-cost way to learn the ropes and start closing deals with our free Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this HomeVestors review:
- What Is HomeVestors of America?
- How the HomeVestors Franchise Model Works
- HomeVestors Franchise Costs & Fees
- What Real Investors Say (Reddit + BBB)
- Pros and Cons of HomeVestors
- HomeVestors vs Competitors
- Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Join HomeVestors?
- Our Verdict: Is HomeVestors Worth It?
- FAQ: HomeVestors Reviews
- Final Thoughts on HomeVestors Reviews
If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.
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What Is HomeVestors? (Quick Overview)
HomeVestors of America is a nationally known real estate franchise system, famous for its “We Buy Ugly Houses” ads. Since launching in 1996, it has become a household name in off-market real estate investing, especially among first-time flippers exploring franchise opportunities.
Today, there are over 1,100 independently owned HomeVestors franchises throughout the U.S. Each franchisee is trained to follow a repeatable model for buying distressed homes, rehabbing them, and either flipping or renting them out. It’s a structured approach to real estate investing, but it’s not for everyone. That’s why reading HomeVestors of America reviews can be so helpful before deciding if it’s the right path for you.
- Founded in 1996 and known for the “We Buy Ugly Houses” slogan
- Over 1,100 franchises nationwide
- Focuses on buying, renovating, and reselling distressed homes
- Operates under a national brand with local ownership
How the HomeVestors Franchise Works
Many aspiring investors turn to franchising as a shortcut to systems, support, and consistent lead flow. HomeVestors offers one of the most recognized franchise models in real estate. But what does that actually look like for a franchisee? Here’s how the HomeVestors process works, from application to closing deals:
- Apply and get approved: Prospective franchisees start by submitting an application. Approval is based on background, financial qualifications, and commitment to full-time investing.
- Pay franchise fee: Once approved, you'll pay the initial franchise fee, which ranges from $39,000 to over $80,000 depending on territory size and exclusivity.
- Attend HomeVestors training: New franchisees complete several days of in-depth training that covers marketing, acquisitions, rehab, and sales strategies.
- Receive leads via national marketing: One of the biggest advantages mentioned in many HomeVestors franchise reviews is the steady flow of seller leads driven by national advertising campaigns.
- Close deals, rehab or wholesale: Franchisees decide whether to flip or wholesale the deals they secure. The model supports both strategies depending on your goals and capital.
- Pay royalties and ongoing marketing fees: Like most franchises, HomeVestors charges ongoing fees—typically a percentage of your revenue—to support brand-wide advertising and operational support.
HomeVestors Franchise Cost (Is It Worth It?)
Thinking about joining HomeVestors? Let’s talk numbers. One thing that comes up again and again in HomeVestors franchise reviews is the cost to get started. And honestly, it’s not pocket change. Between franchise fees, marketing spend, and setup costs, you’ll need serious capital, especially if you're eyeing a full franchise. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect to invest based on HomeVestors’ own estimates:
| Expense Category | Associate Franchise | Full Franchise |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $42,500 | $85,000 |
| Advertising | $50,000–$140,000 | $50,000–$140,000 |
| Furniture, Equipment & Signage | Up to $19,400 | Up to $19,400 |
| Training & Tech Setup | $3,800–$16,000 | $3,800–$16,000 |
| Insurance & Misc. Costs | $3,000–$15,900 | $3,000–$15,900 |
| Property Purchase/Repairs | $13,000–$129,000 | $13,000–$129,000 |
| Additional Funds (6 Months) | Up to $50,000 | Up to $50,000 |
| Total Investment Range | $109,000–$415,250 | $155,000–$461,250 |
Compared to other real estate opportunities, HomeVestors sits on the higher end of the cost spectrum. While you do get national marketing, brand recognition, and hands-on support, HomeVestors reviews BBB suggest the return on investment largely depends on your market, your hustle, and how well you manage rehab projects. If you're tight on capital or prefer more flexibility, you might want to consider lower-cost ways to get started in real estate.
Your First Deal Doesn’t Require a Franchise Fee
If you're brand new to real estate investing, diving straight into a HomeVestors franchise could be a massive (and expensive) leap. Before you commit tens of thousands in franchise fees, advertising, and royalties, make sure you actually understand how to find and close deals on your own. That’s exactly why we created the Ultimate Investor Program: to teach you how to invest without the heavy upfront costs. You'll learn how to wholesale, flip, and build a rental portfolio with strategies you can use anywhere. Download our FREE Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing and start building skills before you start paying franchise fees.
What Real Investors & Sellers Say (User Reviews)
When it comes to HomeVestors reviews, opinions are mixed depending on whether you're looking through the lens of a franchise owner, a seller, or a curious investor. On platforms like Reddit and BiggerPockets, many seasoned investors acknowledge the power of the “We Buy Ugly Houses” brand. It's one of the most widely recognized real estate slogans in the country, and franchisees benefit from strong lead generation and national marketing support.
Several HomeVestors of America reviews also mention the value of community, ongoing training, and credibility when dealing with motivated sellers. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot include testimonials from sellers who appreciated the professionalism and speed of the home-selling process.
But not all HomeVestors reviews are glowing. Some HomeVestors reviews complain about the high franchise fees, mandatory royalty payments, and exclusivity rules that limit how and where you can operate. Franchisees have expressed frustration over competing with other investors in overlapping markets and feeling locked into contracts with strict corporate oversight.
Additionally, Reddit users in particular question whether the business model is beginner-friendly. Threads often highlight that while the system works for full-time investors with capital and sales skills, it may not be ideal for newcomers who haven't done a deal yet.
“It’s a solid brand with lots of visibility, but you’re definitely paying for that exposure.” — Reddit comment.
“They helped me sell fast, but I took a hit on price.” — Trustpilot seller review.
“The franchise system is rigid. Great if you follow rules, not so great if you want flexibility.” — BiggerPockets user.
Pros and Cons of HomeVestors
Before you commit to a franchise fee, it’s worth looking at the real-world feedback. This pros and cons table is based on common themes found in HomeVestors of America reviews and franchisee testimonials.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| National brand trust | Expensive upfront cost |
| Strong lead gen | Tight franchise territories |
| Training included | Ongoing royalty fees |
As you can see, many HomeVestors reviews highlight the value of brand recognition and support systems. Still, the financial commitment and limited operational freedom are key points to consider before buying in.
HomeVestors vs Competitors
When exploring the best real estate franchises, it's important to understand how HomeVestors stacks up against similar national and regional investment models. Whether you’re comparing franchise fees, lead generation, or branding power, this chart gives a side-by-side snapshot based on real HomeVestors reviews and feedback from franchisees and industry pros.
| Feature | HomeVestors | New Western | NetWorth Realty | DIY Investor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost to Join | High | Low | Moderate | None |
| Leads Provided | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| National Brand | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Best For | Franchise-minded | Wholesalers | Rehabbers | Solo operators |
As you can see from these HomeVestors franchise reviews, the brand is ideal for investors who value structure, marketing muscle, and lead support. But if you’re a more independent operator or looking to avoid high fees, alternatives like DIY investing or New Western may offer a better fit.
Who Should Join HomeVestors?
Trying to figure out if HomeVestors is a good fit? It really comes down to how you like to operate and how much you're willing to spend. Some investors want the backing of a big brand and a proven playbook, even if it comes with steep fees. Others prefer to build their business their own way. Here’s who typically gets the most out of joining HomeVestors:
- Full-time investors who want operational support and built-in systems
- New investors who want to leverage a trusted national brand
- Operators with capital to cover franchise and marketing fees
- Rehabbers looking for a steady flow of motivated seller leads
That said, it's not the only path. Our Ultimate Investor Program teaches you how to wholesale, flip, and buy & hold real estate, without the expensive royalties or franchise contracts.
*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!
Our Verdict: Is HomeVestors Worth It?
Is HomeVestors worth it? For experienced investors with some cash behind them who like the idea of plugging into an established system, it might be. The brand is well-known across the country, and that recognition helps generate seller leads through national advertising. Many franchisees say the training and support give them a leg up, especially when they’re just getting started with the model.
But for investors who want more control over their business, or who don't have $100K+ to commit upfront, this model may not be the best route. If you want to learn how to wholesale, flip, and buy and hold without expensive startup fees or ongoing royalties, our Ultimate Investor Program is a better alternative.
If you’re serious about building a business under a proven system, HomeVestors could be worth exploring, but if you want to start investing on your own terms, we’ll teach you how to do it from scratch.
FAQ: HomeVestors Reviews
Curious what other investors are asking? Below, we answer the most common questions from those researching HomeVestors reviews, including costs, complaints, and legitimacy.
Is HomeVestors a scam?
No, HomeVestors is not a scam. It’s a legitimate real estate franchise founded in 1996 with over 1,100 franchisees nationwide. While some HomeVestors reviews complain about steep costs and competitive territories, there’s no evidence suggesting fraudulent activity.
How much can you make as a franchisee?
Income varies widely depending on your market, experience, and deal volume. Some HomeVestors of America reviews claim strong profits from consistent deal flow, but others caution that success requires serious capital and hustle, especially after factoring in franchise fees and ad spend.
What are the biggest complaints?
The most common HomeVestors reviews complaints include the high initial investment, ongoing royalty payments, and limited territory rights. Some franchisees feel boxed in or outcompeted in saturated markets, especially when nearby territories overlap in lead generation.
Are there alternatives to HomeVestors?
Yes, there are several alternatives if you want to invest in real estate without franchise fees. New Western, NetWorth Realty, or simply becoming an independent investor, can all work. Our Ultimate Investor Program teaches you how to wholesale, flip, and build a rental portfolio, no franchise needed.
Is HomeVestors legit on BBB?
Yes, HomeVestors is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and holds an A+ rating. However, if you dig into HomeVestors reviews BBB listings, you’ll notice both praise for brand reliability and complaints about lead quality, fees, and responsiveness. Like any franchise, your experience may vary.
Final Thoughts on HomeVestors Reviews
After reviewing dozens of HomeVestors reviews, one thing is clear: this franchise opportunity isn’t for everyone. It requires a major financial commitment, a willingness to follow someone else’s system, and a drive to succeed in a competitive space.
For the right investor, especially those seeking national brand recognition and lead generation support, HomeVestors can be a solid business model. But if you're just getting started or want more freedom without the fees, explore alternatives before signing any agreements.
If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.
This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.
*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.
Alex Martinez, the founder of Real Estate Skills, is known for his strong, practical expertise in real estate, starting from a beginner with no family connections in the industry to completing over 50 real estate deals, including wholesale and flips, within his first year.
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His expertise is rooted in hands-on experience, extensive industry knowledge, and a commitment to empowering others through education.
Ryan's journey reflects a blend of practical experience and entrepreneurial success, contributing to his role in developing a platform that educates and supports aspiring real estate professionals.
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