What fee is charged to a new Best Western member purchasing their membership from an existing member?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Please note, if you are a new Member purchasing your Membership from an existing Member, you will be charged a transfer fee in lieu of an Entrance Fee, which will equal 50% of our then current Entrance Fee.
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 37–61)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Best Western Franchise Disclosure Document, a new member purchasing their membership from an existing member will be charged a transfer fee. This transfer fee is in place of the standard Entrance Fee and is equal to 50% of Best Western's then-current Entrance Fee.
This is a potentially significant cost saving for the incoming franchisee. Instead of paying the full Entrance Fee, they only pay half. However, the exact dollar amount of the transfer fee is not specified in this document, as it depends on the 'then current Entrance Fee' at the time of the transfer.
Prospective franchisees should confirm the current Entrance Fee with Best Western to accurately calculate the transfer fee they would be required to pay. Understanding this fee is crucial for budgeting and financial planning when considering purchasing a Best Western membership from an existing member.