Can Corcoran subsequently require alterations to the office space?
Corcoran Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Unless otherwise provided, by signing this Agreement we represent that the Offices meet our Office Design and Appearance Standards, provided that we may subsequently require you to make reasonable alterations, modifications or upgrades any office space in which the Business is operated.
You must maintain all Office facilities, office sign(s), yard signs, stationery goods and all other items in first-class condition and in compliance with the P&P Manual.
- 4.7 Office Sign. You will install one (1) or more exterior signs displaying your Trade Name.
Your sign(s) must conform to the P&P Manual and Brand Standards and MUST BE APPROVED BY US IN WRITING IN ADVANCE, AS TO ARTWORK, LETTERING, COLOR SCHEME, SIZE, AND OVERALL APPEARANCE.
You must obtain our prior written approval for any exception to Office sign requirements due to local ordinances or other reasons for any Office, and you must provide written documentation reflecting the reasons for varying the signage.
- 4.8 Yard Signs. You will purchase or lease from our Approved Suppliers or other vendors an adequate quantity of yard signs displaying your Trade Name and such other information as may be required by law and complying with the mandatory Standards in the P&P Manual and Brand Standards.
Upon request, you will provide either color photographs of the signs or a copy of the order for the signs.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 75–276)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Corcoran's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Corcoran has the right to require franchisees to make alterations to their office space after the franchise agreement is signed. While the agreement initially represents that the franchisee's offices meet Corcoran's design and appearance standards, Corcoran retains the right to mandate reasonable alterations, modifications, or upgrades to any office where the Corcoran business is operated.
This provision means that franchisees may need to invest additional funds into their office space during the term of their franchise agreement to comply with Corcoran's evolving brand standards. These changes are expected to be 'reasonable,' but the FDD does not define specific limits on what constitutes reasonable alterations.
In addition to these potential alterations, franchisees must maintain all office facilities, signs, stationery, and other items in first-class condition and in compliance with the P&P Manual. Franchisees are also required to purchase Internal Branding Elements for their office, including branded signage and a flat-panel monitor for displaying listings. All exterior signs displaying the Trade Name must conform to the P&P Manual and Brand Standards and must be approved by Corcoran in writing regarding artwork, lettering, color scheme, size, and overall appearance.