When most people think about owning a painting franchise, they picture weekend curb appeal projects and interior refreshes for homeowners. And while residential work is a strong foundation, Fresh Coat franchisees have access to something most painting franchises simply don't offer: a clear, supported path into commercial and multi-family work.
That distinction matters — a lot.
Residential painting is excellent for building cash flow and establishing your business in a new market. But franchisees who want to grow beyond that first phase quickly discover that commercial and multi-family projects are the engine for real scale.
Higher-value contracts. Longer project timelines. Steadier, more predictable work. That's the commercial difference.
Jared Gallier, owner of Fresh Coat Painters of South Denver, has lived this firsthand. Commercial bids he places today are converting into projects that keep his crews busy through the winter months — historically the slowest season for painting businesses. Rather than riding out the off-season, he's building a pipeline that keeps his team employed and his revenue flowing year-round.
Multi-family projects — like apartment turns and phased work across larger properties — can serve as a natural on-ramp into this side of the business. They offer more predictable timing than many commercial jobs and help franchisees build the kind of long-term relationships with property management companies that generate repeat business for years to come.
Scaling into commercial work does require a shift in how you think about operations. Crew planning, project timing, and client relationship management all take on new weight when you're coordinating work across larger properties over longer periods.
The good news: Fresh Coat franchisees don't figure this out alone. Fresh Coat is one of the only painting franchises with a dedicated commercial division, providing franchisees with expert support in estimating, materials, pricing, and strategy. Whether you're pursuing a lead independently or tapping into Fresh Coat's national partnerships, you have a team behind you helping you compete — and win — in the commercial space.
And on the financial side, there are no penalties for going bigger. Royalty fees are consistent across residential, commercial, and leads generated through any channel, so franchisees can pursue commercial opportunities without worrying that growth comes at a higher cost.
The business case for commercial work is clear, but franchisees like Gallier will tell you there's more to it than revenue. Consistent commercial contracts mean consistent work for your crews — which translates into stronger retention, lower turnover costs, and a team that feels invested in the business alongside you.
There's also something to be said for the visible, lasting impact of the work. Painting a multi-unit property or a commercial building isn't just another job ticket. It's a mark on your community that you can point to with pride.
Fresh Coat is built for franchisees who want to grow into something bigger than a one-truck operation. The commercial opportunity is real, the support is in place, and the pathway is proven.