Christie’s International Real Estate Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Christie’s International Real Estate is recognized as a leading global franchise in the luxury residential property sector. Established in 1987 under the name Great Estates, the company was purchased by the world-renowned Christie’s auction house in 1995 and eventually rebranded to its current identity in 2011.
Today, the franchise is based in Chicago, Illinois, and has been under the ownership of @properties since 2021, one of the largest real estate brokerages in the United States.
Its services are dedicated to the marketing and sale of exclusive homes, estates, and high-end developments. The network has expanded to include more than 400 offices and approximately 10,000 agents operating across nearly 50 countries, giving the brand a strong international presence.
The franchise model was introduced to strengthen global reach and provide entrepreneurs access to the upscale property market. A key differentiator for Christie’s International Real Estate is its close alliance with Christie’s auction house, which offers direct connections to a wealthy community of collectors and buyers, giving its listings unparalleled exposure in the premium property segment.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Christie’s International Real Estate franchise? It costs on average between $64,000 – $443,000 to start a Christie’s International Real Estate franchised facility.
This includes expenses related to office setup, technology systems, marketing, and initial operating costs. The total investment varies depending on several factors, such as the size and location of the office, the market being served, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the premises.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Fee | $35,000 |
| Initial Training Expenses | $1,000 to $10,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $0 to $150,000 |
| Rent and Security Deposit | $3,000 to $10,000 |
| “For Sale” Signage | $1,000 to $25,000 |
| Office Signage | $250 to $5,000 |
| Equipment and Furniture | $7,500 to $50,000 |
| Computers and Software | $2,500 to $10,000 |
| Start-up Supplies and Inventory | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| Insurance | $1,500 to $25,000 |
| Professional Fees | $1,500 to $5,000 |
| Utilities | $350 to $2,500 |
| Licensing Costs | $500 to $2,500 |
| Data Feed Transmission | $250 to $3,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $5,000 to $90,000 |
| MLS Fee | $0 to $10,000 |
| DMS Fee | $125 |
| TOTAL | $64,475 to $443,125 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Christie’s International Real Estate locations are there?
As of the latest data, Christie’s International Real Estate operates 38 franchise owned locations and 3 company owned locations.
What is the total investment required to open a Christie’s International Real Estate franchise?
The total investment required to open a Christie’s International Real Estate franchise ranges from $64,000 to $815,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Christie’s International Real Estate franchise?
Christie’s International Real Estate franchisees, the primary ongoing cost is a royalty fee between 3% and 6% of gross sales, which covers brand usage, support, and franchisor-provided resources.
Currently, there is no separate national marketing or advertising fee imposed—that is, the brand fund contribution stands at 0%. Let me know if you’d like details about other potential recurring expenses, such as technology or renewal fees!
Who owns Christie’s International Real Estate?
The franchise is owned by @properties, a leading U.S. real estate brokerage that acquired Christie’s International Real Estate in 2021.
Disclaimer
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