Paint Franchise Pros and Cons

Paint Franchise Pros and Cons

A Look at Deer Solution, That 1 Painter, and CertaPro

If you’re exploring franchise ownership and weighing the paint franchise pros and cons, it’s worth expanding the lens beyond traditional options. While painting franchises are popular for their recurring demand and residential focus, brands like Deer Solution offer a unique alternative with a similar service-based model and attractive financials. Here’s a breakdown of three franchise opportunities — Deer Solution, That 1 Painter, and CertaPro Painters — using each to highlight the real-world advantages and drawbacks of owning a service-based paint or paint-adjacent franchise.


1. Deer Solution – The Eco-Friendly Outsider

While not a painting franchise in the literal sense, Deer Solution fits squarely into the home service category. Specializing in deer deterrent solutions, this franchise taps into a growing niche: protecting landscapes and gardens from wildlife without harmful chemicals or lethal measures.

Pros:

  • Niche Market with Low Competition – Deer control is a specific need in suburban and rural areas, offering franchisees a clear lane with minimal direct competition.
  • Recurring Revenue Model – Monthly treatments ensure predictable income and customer retention.
  • Low Overhead Costs – With a home-based setup and no need for large equipment or storefronts, Deer Solution is cost-efficient to operate.
  • Strong Support System – Franchisees receive robust training, business coaching, and marketing tools from day one.

Cons:

  • Regional Limitations – Demand is strongest in deer-prone areas, making some territories more lucrative than others.
  • Seasonal Challenges – Deer activity and customer urgency can fluctuate with seasons, requiring smart scheduling and budgeting.
  • Limited Brand Awareness – As a newer franchise, Deer Solution is still building national recognition, which may impact early marketing.

2. That 1 Painter – The Fast-Rising Challenger

That 1 Painter is a residential and commercial painting franchise that’s been expanding rapidly across the U.S. Known for its bold branding and customer-first approach, it’s a high-energy, modern take on an age-old service.

Pros:

  • Explosive Growth Potential – The brand has rapidly expanded into over 400 markets in just a few years, signaling high demand and franchisee interest.
  • Affordable Entry Point – With startup costs beginning at just over $110K, it’s one of the more accessible painting franchises.
  • Operational Support – Franchisees benefit from marketing guidance, in-house call centers, and support systems that make scaling easier.
  • Diversified Services – Beyond painting, some franchisees offer adjacent services like power washing, which adds to revenue streams.

Cons:

  • Heavy Competition – Painting is a crowded category, and franchisees often battle both national competitors and local independents.
  • Time-Intensive Management – Owners need to be hands-on, especially early on, to ensure quality control and efficient service.
  • Variable Margins – Profitability depends heavily on job size, scheduling efficiency, and local market rates.

3. CertaPro Painters – The Legacy Brand

CertaPro Painters is one of the most recognized names in the painting franchise world. With decades of experience and hundreds of locations, it offers structure, brand trust, and established systems that attract seasoned investors.

Pros:

  • Widespread Brand Recognition – CertaPro’s national presence and long history give franchisees instant credibility in their markets.
  • Exclusive Territories – Franchisees operate in protected areas, reducing the risk of internal competition.
  • Comprehensive Training and Marketing – The franchise offers a deep support network, from digital marketing to field operations.
  • Attracts Higher-End Clients – CertaPro positions itself slightly upscale, often drawing in premium residential and commercial projects.

Cons:

  • Higher Investment Costs – Startup fees and infrastructure needs can be steep, making it less accessible for first-time owners.
  • Long Franchise Commitment – Most agreements are long-term (up to 10 years), limiting flexibility.
  • Strict Branding and Operations Rules – Franchisees have limited room to experiment with offerings or local adaptations.
  • No Internal Financing – New franchisees must source their own funding or loans.

Final Thoughts: Which Franchise Model Works for You?

The phrase “paint franchise pros and cons” applies differently depending on the brand — and your personal goals. Deer Solution is ideal if you want a niche, eco-conscious business with recurring revenue and less market competition. That 1 Painter is a great fit for energetic entrepreneurs who want rapid scalability in a service-focused sector. CertaPro Painters appeals to those seeking structure, brand recognition, and larger projects — but it comes with a higher barrier to entry.

Each model has its strengths and trade-offs. The key is choosing the franchise that aligns with your budget, business style, and long-term vision.

Let me know if you want this adapted into a comparison table or downloadable PDF!


To learn more about our franchise, Contact Us.

Share this post:

Interested in a franchise? Inquire now!

Join Deer Solution and take control of your future.

Deer Solution Repellent Service logo featuring a deer with a leaf between its antlers, inside a shield with the company name.