According to the Remax addendum, when must the office be 'opened' and operating?
Remax Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You agree to open and begin operating the Office within 180 calendar days from the Agreement Date. "Opened" means having an office with a minimum of 1,000 square feet (700 square feet if you are starting a new office in a low-density area), staffed by a full-time person, and equipped with furniture, a computer system, and other office equipment necessary to operate a RE/MAX office in conformity with our high standards of quality and service. Unless prohibited by a state or local ordinance, or the landlord of the Premises, you must also have one or more exterior office signs depicting the trade name identified on the first page of this Agreement and be compliant with the most current edition of the Brand Standards Manual in effect at the time you open the Office. You acknowledge and agree that you are responsible for assuring that the Office is constructed in compliance with all applicable laws, including without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD pages 108–334)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Remax's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must open and begin operating their office within 180 calendar days from the agreement date. The term "Opened" is specifically defined in the FDD. To be considered "Opened", the office must meet certain criteria related to size, staffing, and equipment.
The office must have a minimum of 1,000 square feet, although this is reduced to 700 square feet if the office is in a low-density area. The office needs to be staffed by at least one full-time person and equipped with the necessary furniture, a computer system, and other office equipment to ensure it can operate in line with Remax's standards for quality and service.
In addition to these requirements, unless prohibited by local ordinances or the landlord, the franchisee must install one or more exterior office signs displaying the trade name. The office must also comply with the most current edition of the Brand Standards Manual. The franchisee is responsible for ensuring the office complies with all applicable laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act.