COMMISSION EXPRESS Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Commission Express is a well-established franchise specializing in real estate commission advances. The brand was founded in 1992 in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area by two seasoned real estate brokers with a vision to improve cash flow solutions for agents.
The company initially operated as a single corporate business before launching its franchise program in 1996. This expansion made it the first and only franchise in the United States dedicated exclusively to commission advance services for real estate professionals.
Today, the company is based in Fairfax, Virginia, and serves as a trusted partner to real estate agents seeking quick access to earned commissions before settlement. Commission Express typically delivers funds within one to two days, offering a fast and reliable source of working capital. Since starting operations, it has provided over $800 million in advances across the country.
Each franchise location operates independently, purchasing agents’ pending commission receivables at a discounted rate—usually between 6% and 16%, depending on the closing timeline. This model allows agents and brokers to maintain steady cash flow and cover everyday business costs without waiting weeks for transaction completion.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a COMMISSION EXPRESS franchise? It costs on average between $172,000 – $302,000 to start a COMMISSION EXPRESS franchised business.
This includes expenses such as office setup, technology systems, licensing, and initial working capital. The total investment can vary based on factors like the size of the territory, local market conditions, and whether the franchisee operates from a leased or owned office space.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial franchise fee | $10,000 – $50,000 |
| Leasehold improvements | $0 – $2,000 |
| Leasehold deposit | $0 – $500 |
| 1st month’s rent | $0 – $500 |
| Office equipment | $0 – $500 |
| Furniture | $0 – $5,000 |
| Opening inventory (capital pool) | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Computer accounting package (QuickBooks) | $100 – $200 |
| Computer system | $0 – $3,000 |
| Fax machine | $0 – $3,000 |
| Telephone system | $0 – $1,000 |
| Copier | $0 – $3,000 |
| Travel, lodging, and meals for initial training | $800 – $1,600 |
| Supplies (stationery, brochures, banners, etc.) | $1,100 – $1,300 |
| Business licenses and permits (1st year) | $200 – $400 |
| Insurance (1st year) | $500 – $800 |
| Pre-opening advertising | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Local real estate association membership | $100 – $200 |
| Professional fees | $1,000 – $1,000 |
| Additional funds (12 months) | $7,000 – $25,000 |
| Estimated Initial Investment | $172,300 – $301,500 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many COMMISSION EXPRESS locations are there?
As of the most recent available data, Commission Express operates 39 owned franchise offices across the United States, with no company-owned locations.
What is the total investment required to open a COMMISSION EXPRESS franchise?
The total investment required to open a COMMISSION EXPRESS franchise ranges from $172,000 to $302,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a COMMISSION EXPRESS franchise?
Commission Express franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 10% of their gross revenue. In addition, franchisees contribute 1% of their gross revenue toward marketing and advertising efforts, which support brand promotion and system-wide marketing initiatives.
Who owns COMMISSION EXPRESS?
The franchise is owned by Commission Express National, Inc., a company based in Fairfax, Virginia.
Disclaimer
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