Who is responsible for hiring, firing, and supervising employees of a Christies International Real Estate franchise?
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.
- **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; (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 Christies International Real Estate's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are independently responsible for managing their business, including personnel decisions. As stated in Item 23, Christies International Real Estate franchisees are responsible for attracting, retaining, and managing their own employees.
Christies International Real Estate emphasizes that the franchisee operates as an independent business. The agreement specifies that the relationship between the franchisor and franchisee is not that of principal and agent, nor is it a fiduciary relationship. Franchisees are not considered employees of Christies International Real Estate and do not receive employee benefits.
This means that franchisees have substantial control over their business's operations, including hiring, training, and managing personnel. Franchisees are expected to ensure their business complies with all applicable laws and regulations in their operating area. While Christies International Real Estate may offer guidance through its Operations Manual or other materials, this does not make them a joint employer with the franchisee.