Is the transferee required to pay Augusta Lawn Care a training fee?

According to Augusta Lawn Care's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a transferee may be required to pay a training fee. Specifically, the transferee (or a principal of the transferee if the transferee is a business entity) and the transferee's manager, if applicable, must successfully complete any training programs in effect at the time of the transfer. These training programs are at the transferee's expense, and they must pay Augusta Lawn Care the then-current training fee.

This means that if you are looking to buy an existing Augusta Lawn Care franchise, you should factor in the cost of training for yourself or your manager. The FDD does not specify the amount of this training fee, so it is important to ask Augusta Lawn Care about the current fee schedule during your due diligence. This fee is separate from the $15,000 transfer fee that is generally required, although the transfer fee is waived if the transfer is to a corporation or LLC formed by the franchisee for ownership convenience.

It is fairly common in franchising for the transferee to undergo training to ensure they are familiar with the brand's operating system and standards. This helps maintain consistency across the franchise network. However, the cost of this training can vary significantly between franchise systems, so it's crucial to get clarity on the specific fees charged by Augusta Lawn Care.

In addition to the training fee, the transferee must also meet Augusta Lawn Care's standards for education, managerial skills, business acumen, moral character, business reputation, and credit rating. They must also demonstrate the aptitude and ability to operate the Augusta Lawn Care business and have adequate financial resources. These requirements ensure that the transferee is well-qualified to take over the franchise and maintain its success.