Harcourts Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Harcourts is a global real estate franchise brand whose origin dates back to 1888 when John Bateman Harcourt established Harcourt & Co in Wellington, New Zealand. Over time, the company expanded its presence across New Zealand, and in 1988 the brand introduced its franchise model, marking the beginning of its international expansion.
Today, Harcourts is headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, and operates in more than 10 countries with over 900 offices worldwide.
Harcourts offers a full-service real estate brokerage system that includes residential sales, commercial and rural property services, property management, and associated mortgage and finance solutions. The brand has built its reputation on a foundation of professionalism, trust, and innovation, emphasizing its people-first philosophy and commitment to client satisfaction.
What sets Harcourts apart from its competitors is its combination of strong heritage and a modern, technology-driven approach. The company invests heavily in digital tools, data-driven marketing, and customer relationship systems that empower agents and franchisees alike.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Harcourts franchise? It costs on average between $151,000 – $360,000 to start a Harcourts franchised business.
This includes costs for office setup, technology systems, marketing materials, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the size and location of the real estate office, local market conditions, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the premises.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Audit/Inspection | Actual cost of audit |
| Attorneys’ Fees and Costs | Actual fees and costs billed by attorneys |
| Indemnification | Varies |
| Late Payments and Interest | 10% or maximum rate allowed by law |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 |
| Office Build Out (Tenant Improvements) | $20,000 – $110,000 |
| Furnishings and Equipment | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| Supplies and Inventory | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Security Deposits, Licenses, and Other Prepaid Expenses | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Training | No charge |
| Miscellaneous | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 months) | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $151,000 – $360,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Harcourts locations are there?
Based on the latest publicly available data, Harcourts has over 900 offices worldwide across 11 countries.
What is the total investment required to open a Harcourts franchise?
The total investment required to open a Harcourts franchise ranges from $151,000 to $360,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Harcourts franchise?
Harcourts franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of about 6% of gross sales. In addition, they contribute approximately 1% of monthly sales to a marketing or brand fund. These recurring fees support the continued use of the Harcourts brand, access to operational systems, national advertising, and ongoing franchisor support programs.
Who owns Harcourts?
Harcourts franchise is owned by Harcourts International Ltd., a privately held company headquartered in Brisbane, Australia.
Disclaimer
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