Is Christies International Real Estate the employer or co-employer of any employee that the franchisee hires?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
munications, email signature blocks, real estate documents, and all other materials you use.
- 12.2. Independent Business. You acknowledge and agree that by executing this Agreement you are agreeing to establish and operate an independent CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE business, the success of which depends on, among other things, your individual ability to operate your business, attract and retain qualified agents and other personnel, and otherwise operate all phases of an independent business over which you will have substantial control. As an independent business owner, you agree that: (i) the relationship created by this Agreement is not a relationship between principal and agent, or that it is a fiduciary relationship; (ii) you are not our employee and will not earn any wages, nor be eligible for or receive any of the other benefits normally provided to employees, but rather your income will solely be the profits you earn from the operation of your Business; (iii) we are not the employer or coemployer of any employee that you hire; (iv) except as set forth herein, all management, personnel, and training requirements are at your discretion and are your responsibility; (v) you are responsible for ensuring that your Business operates in accordance with the law of the state, county, city, and town in which you operate; (vi) you alone are permitted to contract with your customers and you are required to sign all contracts and agreements, including purchase agreements, using your independent business name;
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 54–177)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Christies International Real Estate Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are independent business owners, and Christies International Real Estate is not the employer or co-employer of any employee that the franchisee hires. The success of the franchisee's business depends on their ability to attract and retain qualified agents and other personnel. Franchisees have substantial control over their business operations.
As independent business owners, Christies International Real Estate franchisees are not considered agents or fiduciaries of the franchisor. Franchisees do not earn wages from Christies International Real Estate, nor are they eligible for employee benefits. Franchisees are responsible for all management, personnel, and training requirements, ensuring their business operates in accordance with local laws.
Franchisees are solely permitted to contract with their customers using their independent business name and are free to set their own prices, provided they comply with any mandatory policies in the Operations Manual regarding maximum or minimum charges. Christies International Real Estate is not liable for damages arising from the franchisee's business operations or any taxes, assessments, fines, or penalties levied upon the franchisee's business. Christies International Real Estate offering advice or assistance to the franchisee does not make them a joint employer.