Who is permitted to contract with customers for a Christies International Real Estate franchise?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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; (vii) you are free to set the prices you charge your customers, so long as those charges comply with any and all mandatory policies we prescribe in the Operations Manual relating to maximum or minimum charges; and (viii) we shall not be liable for damages to any person or property arising directly or indirectly out of your operation of your Business nor shall we be liable for any taxes, assessments, fines or penalties levied upon you or your Business arising out of your Business.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 54–177)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Christies International Real Estate Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee alone is permitted to contract with customers. The franchisee is required to sign all contracts and agreements, including purchase agreements, using their independent business name. This underscores the franchisee's role as an independent business owner, responsible for their business's operations and legal obligations.
This arrangement means that Christies International Real Estate franchisees have direct control over their customer relationships and contractual agreements. It also means that the franchisee is directly responsible for ensuring that all contracts comply with applicable laws and regulations. This independence allows franchisees to tailor their services and contracts to meet local market conditions and customer needs, within the brand standards set by Christies International Real Estate.
This is a fairly standard arrangement in the franchise industry, where franchisees operate as independent business owners under the franchisor's brand. However, prospective franchisees should carefully review the franchise agreement and operations manual to understand any specific requirements or restrictions related to customer contracts and pricing policies. Understanding these details is crucial for managing the business effectively and maintaining compliance with Christies International Real Estate's standards.