Is Engel & Volkers obligated to assist franchisees in obtaining the computer goods and services described in the Franchise Disclosure Document, other than the Integrated Product Suite?
Engel_Volkers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Other than the Integrated Product Suite described above, we have no obligation to assist you in obtaining the computer goods and services described in this Franchise Disclosure Document. As far as our recommendations for specific computer component manufacturers, you may purchase or lease the hardware and software from any manufacturer meeting our minimum standards and from any computer supplier you choose. Neither we nor any of our affiliates or third parties has any obligation to provide ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades or update services for your computer hardware and software, except for the technology services which you contract with us.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 43–54)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Engel & Volkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Engel & Volkers is not obligated to assist franchisees in obtaining computer goods and services, with the exception of the Integrated Product Suite. The FDD specifies that franchisees must acquire specified computer equipment that meets the standards described in the System Documentation to participate in the Engel & Volkers System. Currently, there are no required minimum memory or other standards described in the System Documentation. The estimated cost for purchasing the necessary computer hardware and software ranges from approximately $15,000 to $30,000 per location. Franchisees have the option to purchase additional technology services from Engel & Volkers at prices outlined in the Technology Price List. Engel & Volkers may periodically modify its standards, which will be communicated to franchisees through updates to the System Documentation, potentially requiring franchisees to upgrade or update their systems.
Engel & Volkers retains the right to access information and data electronically collected by the franchisee's Residential Real Estate Brokerage through the Integrated Product Suite, including real estate property listing information and seller contact information. There are no contractual restrictions on Engel & Volkers' right to access this data. Franchisees are free to purchase or lease hardware and software from any manufacturer that meets Engel & Volkers' minimum standards and from any computer supplier of their choice.
Engel & Volkers does not provide ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or update services for computer hardware and software, except for the technology services contracted between the franchisee and Engel & Volkers. This means that franchisees are responsible for ensuring their computer systems meet the required standards and for handling any maintenance or upgrades independently, beyond the Integrated Product Suite and any additional technology services they choose to purchase from Engel & Volkers. This arrangement allows franchisees flexibility in choosing their hardware and software providers while also placing the responsibility for maintaining those systems on the franchisee.