When does Remax consider the Initial Franchise Fee fully earned and non-refundable?

Based on the 2025 Remax Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial franchise fee is generally non-refundable, but there is an exception. If a mutually acceptable location for the Remax office cannot be agreed upon within 90 days of the agreement date, Remax may terminate the agreement and refund the initial franchise fee. This 90-day period is a critical window for prospective franchisees to work with Remax to secure an appropriate site.

However, once a location is approved or the 90-day period expires without a mutually agreed location, the initial franchise fee becomes non-refundable. This means that if the franchisee later decides not to proceed with opening the Remax office, or if the office fails to meet revenue expectations, the initial franchise fee will not be returned. Remax emphasizes that its approval of a location does not guarantee the location's suitability or the office's profitability, and franchisees are responsible for independently investigating the location's viability.

It's important to note that this non-refundable policy is standard practice in the franchise industry, as the initial fee covers Remax's expenses in evaluating the franchisee, providing initial training and support, and reserving the territory. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider their financial situation and conduct thorough due diligence before signing the franchise agreement and paying the initial fee, understanding that this fee is at risk once the location is approved or the 90-day period concludes.