How does the cost of start-up supplies and inventory for Christies International Real Estate vary?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Marks (our "Brand Guidelines"). We may add to, delete from, and otherwise modify the Operations Manual from time to time as we deem necessary or appropriate. The master copy of the Operations Manual that we maintain electronically or at our principal office and make available to you will control if there is a dispute involving the contents of the Operations Manual.
5. DEVELOPMENT AND OPENING THE BUSINESS
- 5.1. Development of the Business. Before you begin operating the Business, you will:
- (a) purchase an opening inventory of all signage (including all "for sale" signs), products, supplies, materials, and equipment we require for the Business. You must begin using yard signs containing our Marks within ninety (90) days from the Effective Date;
- (b) have a working Computer System;
- (c) procure all state or local licenses, permits, and certifications required by applicable law to operate your Business; and
- (d) establish filing, accounting and inventory control systems complying with our requirements.
5.2. Site Selection and Build Out.
- (a) Site Selection. You must select a site for the operation of your Business. We may provide you with site selection guidelines in the Operations Manual or otherwise in writing. You agree to obtain our written consent for your proposed site. You may operate the Business only from the accepted site. If you fail to secure a site of which we approve, we may terminate this Agreement.
- (b) Lease. Before you sign a lease, sublet a space, purchase space, or make any binding commitment to do so, you must provide us a copy of the proposed lease, sublease, or purchase agreement, and you must obtain our prior written approval hereof, which we will not unreasonably withhold.
- (c) Buildout. It is your responsibility to conform the premises with federal, state, or local ordinances, building codes, licensing requirements and obtain any required permits.
- (d) Plans and Layout. You are required to submit the layout and have it approved by us. We will approve or disapprove a proposed layout within 14 days of your submission to us. Once approved by us, it is your responsibility to remodel the premises and install the furniture, fixtures, and equipment accordingly.
Source: Item 5 — INITIAL FEES (FDD pages 13–14)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christies International Real Estate's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the cost of start-up supplies and inventory can vary based on several factors. The document specifies that franchisees must purchase an opening inventory of all signage (including "for sale" signs), products, supplies, materials, and equipment required for the business. Furthermore, franchisees must begin using yard signs containing Christies International Real Estate's Marks within ninety (90) days from the Effective Date.
The cost of equipment and furniture, such as telephones, chairs, desks, file cabinets, tables, scanners, and printers, depends on the size of the Main Office, the number of Additional Offices the Business operates, and the number of agents affiliated with the Business. Franchisees are also required to use specific computer hardware, software, and systems, potentially incurring costs to access proprietary technology systems and contract with 3rd party software providers.
In summary, the initial investment for supplies and inventory is influenced by the scale of operations, the number of offices, the agent count, and technology choices. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider these variables and factor them into their financial planning.