In 2009, Keith Bolash and Heath Freeland of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, were looking for a way out of their previous jobs when they put their heads and expertise together and founded a niche business that would allow them to be their own bosses and turn a profit. By Patty Horansky
In 2009, Keith Bolash and Heath Freeland of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, were looking for a way out of their previous jobs when they put their heads and expertise together and founded a niche business that would allow them to be their own bosses and turn a profit.
Bolash’s background as a real estate appraiser and Freeland’s as a professional photographer led to the creation of 360 Tour Designs, a real estate photography company that helps agents sell their listings faster.
Real estate photography was a fledgling business at the time, and the quality of the photos was usually poor. Bolash and Freeland saw an opportunity to use their realty connections and show them how higher-quality photos would increase home sales. Their concept caught on, and they sold their first territory in 2014.
Greg Drake, the former vice president of operations for a local restaurant chain, came onboard as CEO and co-owner the following year. He saw the brand as scalable and a good fit for himself.
Drake devised a business plan and helped secure financing to grow the brand, and it was franchised in 2019.
Now co-owned by Drake and Bolash, the brand offers HD photography, videography, interactive floor plans, 3D walkthroughs, virtual staging, aerial views, twilight photography and more.
It also has expanded into other industries such as construction, commercial real estate, rental communities and small businesses.
“For us it’s about providing as many individual services as we can possibly provide, to serve our clients in the best way that we can serve them,” Drake said.
The brand has five franchises, several corporate locations and is looking to grow.
It offers franchisees a low point of entry, protected territories, multiple revenue streams and proprietary technology. New owners go through three days of comprehensive training at brand headquarters in Pennsylvania and receive ongoing mentoring and support.
The brand seeks people with integrity, who want to own their own business, are excited about the future and can follow a formula. No industry experience is necessary, but owners are required to join their local real estate associations, which is the best way to gain clients and referrals, Drake said.
“It’s a fun and entertaining business to be in, but also one that can lead to quick growth,” he said.
Patty Horansky