Can Christies International Real Estate modify the 'EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED' disclaimer?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must place a conspicuous notice on or near the entrance(s) of the Offices(s), that clearly states "EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED," or any modification of the statement as we may require in the Operations Manual ("Disclaimer").
You must include the Disclaimer on all signage, business cards, stationery, promotional and advertising materials, website and internet communications, email signature blocks, real estate documents, and all other materials you use.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 54–177)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christies International Real Estate's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to display a disclaimer stating "EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED" at or near the entrance of their offices. This disclaimer must also be included on all signage, business cards, stationery, promotional and advertising materials, websites, email signatures, real estate documents, and other materials used by the franchisee.
Importantly, Christies International Real Estate retains the right to modify this disclaimer as they deem necessary, with any such modifications to be communicated in the Operations Manual. This means that a franchisee must stay updated with any changes to the disclaimer as outlined by Christies International Real Estate. Franchisees are obligated to comply with these modifications.
This requirement ensures that customers understand that each Christies International Real Estate office is independently run, which can affect liability and operational expectations. The franchisor's ability to modify the disclaimer allows them to adapt to changing legal or market conditions, but it also places the onus on the franchisee to remain compliant with the latest brand standards and legal requirements. Failure to use the correct disclaimer could result in a breach of the franchise agreement.