When did Engel & Volkers begin offering direct franchises in the residential real estate segment?

According to Engel & Volkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company began offering direct franchises in the residential real estate segment in April 2011. Prior to this, Engel & Volkers focused on master franchise agreements, granting exclusive rights to master franchisees in specific territories. This shift to offering direct franchises allowed Engel & Volkers to expand its reach and provide opportunities to individual franchisees looking to operate under the Engel & Volkers brand.

This move to offer direct franchises in 2011 indicates a strategic decision by Engel & Volkers to broaden its market presence and engage more directly with franchisees. By offering both master and direct franchise options, Engel & Volkers caters to different types of investors and business models. Master franchises are suitable for those looking to develop a larger territory through subfranchising, while direct franchises are ideal for individuals focused on operating a single Engel & Volkers Residential Real Estate Brokerage.

For a prospective franchisee, this means that Engel & Volkers has been actively involved in direct franchising for over a decade, providing a level of experience and support in this area. It's important for potential franchisees to understand the differences between master and direct franchise opportunities and to determine which model best aligns with their business goals and investment capacity. They should also inquire about the availability of territories for direct franchises, considering that master franchisees may have exclusive rights in certain areas.