Who is responsible for purchasing the required computers for a Christies International Real Estate franchise?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We require that you obtain and use certain computer hardware and software to operate your Business in accordance with our then-current information technology requirements as specified in the Operations Manual from time to time. You are responsible for purchasing the required computers, as well as any costs related to any accessories, repairs, replacement or upgrades to the computer(s).
You must use any proprietary bundle of software and services in the operation of your Business that we designate. As of the issuance date of this Franchise Disclosure Document, we are the only approved supplier for the proprietary software.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 20–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christies International Real Estate's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for purchasing the required computers to operate their business. This includes covering the costs related to any accessories, repairs, replacements, or upgrades to the computer(s). The specific computer hardware and software requirements are detailed in the Operations Manual, which Christies International Real Estate may update periodically to reflect current information technology standards.
This requirement means that prospective Christies International Real Estate franchisees need to factor in the initial investment for computer hardware and software, as well as ongoing maintenance and upgrade costs. While Christies International Real Estate specifies the required computer hardware and software, franchisees have the responsibility for sourcing and purchasing these items. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, where franchisees typically bear the costs of equipment and technology necessary to run the business according to the franchisor's standards.
Christies International Real Estate also requires franchisees to use a proprietary bundle of software and services, for which Christies International Real Estate is the only approved supplier as of the FDD's issuance date. Franchisees must also stay current with technology changes and implement new systems as required by Christies International Real Estate, potentially incurring additional initial, conversion, and ongoing fees payable to Christies International Real Estate or third parties. This highlights the importance of budgeting for technology-related expenses and staying adaptable to evolving technological requirements within the Christies International Real Estate franchise system.