At a Glance: Key Differences
Data-driven observations based on disclosed figures. Not investment advice — verify current numbers in each franchise's FDD.
⚠️ Risk Assessment
Risk signals from FDD disclosures. Higher score = lower risk. Verify all figures in each franchise's current FDD before investing.
| Risk Factor | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Failure Rate | N/A | N/A |
| Unit Turnover (Growth) | +50%/yr | +80%/yr |
| Total Fee Burden | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| Territory Protection | ✅ Exclusive | ✅ Exclusive |
Detailed Analysis: Coldwell Banker vs Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
According to FranchiseStack.ai's franchise database of 192+ FDD-sourced opportunities, Coldwell Banker and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices are among the most-researched franchise comparisons. The choice comes down to your investment capacity, risk tolerance, and operational preferences. Both operate in the Real Estate sector, which means they compete for similar customers and territory. Coldwell Banker has a larger footprint, which typically translates to stronger brand recognition but potentially more territorial saturation.
From a capital perspective, Coldwell Banker has a lower entry point. However, initial investment alone doesn't determine ROI — ongoing royalties, revenue potential, and failure rates all factor into long-term returns. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices charges a lower royalty rate, which means more of your gross revenue stays in your pocket.
Franchisee satisfaction is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices leads with a 75/100 satisfaction score, indicating that existing owners are more positive about their decision. Before committing to either franchise, we recommend running both through our Financial Model tool to project personalized 5-year P&L scenarios. You should also review each franchise's complete Franchise Disclosure Document using our FDD Checker to understand litigation history, termination rates, and territory restrictions.
Coldwell Banker vs Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices: Real Estate Franchise Guide (2026)
Coldwell Banker and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) are two of the most recognized real estate franchise brands in the United States. For investors evaluating a real estate brokerage franchise, the choice often comes down to market presence, training infrastructure, and brand positioning — all of which differ meaningfully between these two systems.
Market Position and Brand Heritage
Coldwell Banker is one of the oldest real estate brands in the world, founded in 1906 and now part of Anywhere Real Estate (formerly Realogy). With 3,200+ offices globally, it has one of the largest agent networks in residential real estate. The Coldwell Banker brand is especially strong in luxury markets through its Coldwell Banker Realty and Global Luxury positioning — a key competitive advantage in high-value residential markets.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices was launched in 2013 after Berkshire Hathaway acquired the HomeServices of America network. Its unique advantage: the Berkshire Hathaway name carries extraordinary trust — Warren Buffett's brand equity directly extends to every BHHS office and agent. For consumers, the BHHS name signals financial stability and long-term reliability. The brand has grown from zero to 1,500+ offices in just 13 years, a remarkable trajectory that reflects how powerful the Berkshire Hathaway brand halo is in attracting both agents and clients.
Investment and Fee Structure
Coldwell Banker's total investment ranges from $16,000 to $1,500,000 — an unusually wide range that reflects the difference between a small independent affiliate and a large metropolitan brokerage. Franchise fee is $35,000 with a 6% royalty. BHHS runs $25,000–$150,000 with a $25,000 franchise fee and 6% royalty. BHHS's narrower investment range suggests a more standardized operating model.
Both franchises have a franchisee satisfaction score in the low 70s: Coldwell Banker at 72/100, BHHS at 75/100. The 3-point BHHS advantage likely reflects the brand's younger franchisee base (investors who chose BHHS actively, vs legacy Coldwell Banker operators) and the marketing lift of the Berkshire Hathaway name.
Which Is Right for You?
If you're entering a luxury residential market with high average sale prices, Coldwell Banker's luxury positioning and 3,200-office network offer more referral opportunities and brand recognition for high-end listings. If you're building a full-service residential brokerage in a growth market, BHHS's Berkshire name recognition, 75/100 satisfaction score, and lower franchise fee entry point make it the differentiated choice. Explore the full real estate franchise category at Best Real Estate Franchises 2026 and use our FDD Checker to review both disclosure documents side by side.
Real Estate Franchise Cluster
Compare the full real estate franchise cluster: RE/MAX vs Century 21 (desk-fee vs royalty model), Century 21 vs Coldwell Banker (mass market vs luxury positioning), and Century 21 vs Realty ONE Group (legacy vs 100% commission disruptor).
Investment & Fees
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Min Investment | $16K | $25K |
| Max Investment | $1.5M | $150K |
| Franchise Fee | $35K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| Ad Fund Rate | N/A | N/A |
Unit Economics
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Unit Revenue | N/A | N/A |
| Avg Profit Margin | N/A | N/A |
Scale & Growth
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Total Units | 3,200 | 1,500 |
| Annual Growth | 50.0% | 80.0% |
| Failure Rate | N/A | N/A |
Franchisee Performance
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Franchisee Satisfaction | 72/100 | 75/100 |
Track Record
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Years in Business | N/A | N/A |
| Years Franchising | N/A | N/A |
Financial Requirements
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Min Net Worth Required | N/A | N/A |
| Liquid Capital Required | N/A | N/A |
Operations
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Employees | N/A | N/A |
| Training Weeks | N/A | N/A |
⚠️ Risk Indicators
| Metric | Coldwell Banker | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices |
|---|---|---|
| Failure Rate | N/A | N/A |
| Annual Unit Growth | 50.0% | 80.0% |
| Units Opened Last Year | N/A | N/A |
| Units Closed Last Year | N/A | N/A |
| Exclusive Territory | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coldwell Banker or Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices a better franchise investment?
The answer depends on your goals, budget, and market. Coldwell Banker has 3,200 total units and a 72/100 franchisee satisfaction score. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has 1,500 total units and a 75/100 franchisee satisfaction score. Use our ROI Calculator to model both scenarios.
How much does it cost to open a Coldwell Banker franchise?
Based on data in our database, opening a Coldwell Banker franchise requires an initial investment of $16K – $1.5M. The franchise fee is $35K, with ongoing royalties of 6.0%. Always request the current FDD for exact figures.
How much does it cost to open a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise?
Based on data in our database, opening a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise requires an initial investment of $25K – $150K. The franchise fee is $25K, with ongoing royalties of 6.0%. Always request the current FDD for exact figures.
What is the royalty rate for Coldwell Banker vs Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices?
Coldwell Banker's royalty rate is 6.0%. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices's royalty rate is 6.0%. That means Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has the lower ongoing royalty burden.
Which has more locations — Coldwell Banker or Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices?
Coldwell Banker has 3,200 total units. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has 1,500 total units. A larger system can mean more brand recognition, but also more territorial competition.
Is Coldwell Banker or Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices semi-absentee friendly?
Coldwell Banker is typically run as a owner-operator model. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is typically run as a owner-operator model. If passive income is your goal, semi-absentee models let you hire a manager to run day-to-day operations.
Related Comparisons
Data sourced from franchise disclosure documents and public records. Investment ranges, royalty rates, and unit counts change — always request current FDD before making investment decisions. Last updated March 2026.
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