Commission Express is a leading real estate commission advance franchise founded in 1992. It was established in the Washington, DC metro area by two experienced real estate brokers.

Initially operating as a corporate entity, the business began offering franchising opportunities in 1996, making it the first and only exclusively franchised commission advance company for realtors.

Headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, Commission Express provides real estate professionals immediate access to earned but unsettled commissions—typically within two days, often the same day. Since its inception, the company has advanced over $800 million in funds nationwide.

The franchise network features local, independent offices that purchase agents' future commission receivables at a discount—usually ranging from 6% to 16%, depending on the projected settlement date. This swift cash-flow service helps real estate professionals manage day-to-day expenses without waiting 30 to 90 days post-closing.

Training

The franchise Commission Express provides several training programs to ensure franchisees and their staff meet operational standards. Here is a summary of the training provided:

1. Initial Training for First Development Territory
   Commission Express provides about five days of initial training for the franchisee or their managing principal and the original Manager. This training must be completed successfully before the business opens. The franchisor covers the cost of the training and materials, while the franchisee covers travel, lodging, meals, wages, and benefits for the trainees.
2. Initial Training for Additional Territories
   For each additional Development Territory, initial training is required. If it's a protected territory, the original Manager must complete training provided by the franchisor at a designated location. If it's an open market territory, training is conducted by the franchisee. Replacement Managers also must complete initial training.
3. Annual Conference Training
   An annual conference may be held to introduce and review new business, marketing, and technology strategies. Attendance is mandatory for the franchisee or their managing principal. Missing two out of three consecutive conferences is considered a material breach of contract.

Territory Protection

Commission Express offers franchisees the option of operating within a protected development territory. In such cases, the franchisor commits not to operate or grant any other party the right to operate a competing business within that designated area under the same or different trademarks.

The territory is typically defined by the boundaries of one or more local real estate associations or Multiple Listing Services (MLS), ensuring a clear and exclusive market area for the franchisee.

A franchisee with a protected territory must establish an approved office within the territory and maintain certain performance standards, including meeting gross income quotas.