Is the Engel & Volkers Initial Franchise Fee refundable?

According to Engel & Volkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial franchise fee, as well as the Limited Purpose Location Fee, are not refundable. The initial franchise fee is at least $35,000, but could be higher depending on factors such as the size of the protected area, the number of locations, market potential, population base, the character of residential properties, and total market turnover.

If Engel & Volkers grants a franchisee the right to open and operate an additional physical location within their protected area, an additional initial franchise fee of $5,000 will apply. There is also a one-time fee of $2,500 for any Limited Purpose Location that Engel & Volkers may permit a franchisee to open. These fees must be paid via cashier's check, certified bank check, or any other method Engel & Volkers requires, as outlined in the Franchise Agreement.

Furthermore, the FDD states that none of the payments made to Engel & Volkers or its affiliates are refundable. This policy is consistent with standard franchising practices, where initial fees are typically non-refundable to cover the franchisor's costs in evaluating and setting up the new franchise unit. This non-refundability underscores the importance of thorough due diligence and careful consideration before investing in an Engel & Volkers franchise.