Does the estimated initial investment for a Brain Balance center include related professional fees?

According to Brain Balance's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated initial investment for a standard Brain Balance center does include an allowance for certain professional fees. Specifically, Note 4 in Item 7 states that the estimate covers the cost of a business license, formation of an entity, and related professional fees if you hire someone to help you with these tasks. This indicates that Brain Balance anticipates franchisees may incur expenses for professional assistance during the initial setup phase.

However, the FDD also indicates that franchisees are required to use the services of a professional bookkeeper approved by Brain Balance for at least the first six months of operation. While the initial investment estimate may include some allowance for professional fees, it's important to note that ongoing professional bookkeeping services are mandated, and the costs for these services are likely separate from the initial investment estimate. Additionally, franchisees are required to acquire and use accounting software that meets Brain Balance's standards, such as QuickBooks, which may involve purchase or licensing costs.

Furthermore, the document notes that fees paid to third parties, including professional service providers, are generally non-refundable. This means that if a franchisee engages a professional service provider and pays them fees, there is a high likelihood that these fees will not be refundable, regardless of the outcome of the services. Therefore, prospective Brain Balance franchisees should carefully consider the scope and cost of professional services they engage during the initial setup and operation of their center, as these expenses can impact their overall financial performance.