ByeBye Stumps

Given that the royalty rate of 10.0% is above the typical range of 6.0-8.0% for landscaping franchises, how does this higher rate compare to direct competitors, and what additional services or support justify the premium?

The average gross sales of $256,351 are significantly below the typical range of $578,274-$1,482,470 for landscaping franchises—is this figure representative of early-stage unit performance, or are there external factors limiting revenue?

With only 1 franchisee unit currently in the system, what is the franchisor's growth strategy and timeline for expanding the network, and what support exists for franchisees in a single-unit system?

Can you provide detailed financial projections and Item 19 data for the single operating unit, including revenue breakdown by service type and expense categories?

The termination clause allows immediate termination for 13 non-curable defaults—what are these specific defaults, and how frequently do franchisees encounter disputes over their interpretation?

The post-term non-compete restricts franchisee activity for 2 years without a mileage radius specified—does this apply to the entire territory indefinitely, and how is this enforced geographically?

Binding arbitration is required in the franchisor's headquarters location—what are the typical costs and timelines for arbitration disputes, and why was the franchisor's location chosen as the venue?

Personal guarantees are required from all owners and their spouses unconditionally—are there any circumstances under which these guarantees can be limited or released?

The agreement includes an 18% annual interest rate on late payments plus a $100 late fee—how does this compare to industry standards, and what payment grace period exists before fees are applied?

What is the renewal fee amount, if any, and what conditions must be met to qualify for the 2 renewal options beyond the initial 10-year term?

Given the zero turnover rate, can you provide references from the single franchisee regarding their experience, profitability, and satisfaction with the franchise relationship?

How is the $250 monthly technology fee structured—what systems or services does it cover, and are there itemized costs or options to reduce this fee?

The territory is exclusive—what geographic area is defined as the franchisee's exclusive territory, and what measures protect against franchisor encroachment?

Since no minimum sales requirements are specified in the agreement, what performance expectations exist, and under what circumstances might a franchisee face termination for underperformance?

Are there any pending litigation cases, regulatory investigations, or formal complaints against the franchisor that are not yet publicly disclosed?

How long has the franchisor been operating, and what is the background and experience of the franchisor's leadership team in the tree stump removal industry?

What training, ongoing support, and marketing assistance are provided by the franchisor, and are there any limitations or additional costs associated with these services?

The transfer fee is $10,000—does this apply to transfers to family members or only to third-party sales, and what franchisor approval requirements exist?

Can you explain why renewal conditions count of 5 falls below the typical range of 6-8, and what specific conditions must be satisfied for renewal?

What is included in the Item 19 disclosure, and can you provide a 3-year financial history showing revenue, expenses, and profitability trends for the operating unit?