Engel & Völkers: A Global Leader in Luxury Real Estate

Engel & Völkers is a prestigious real estate franchise renowned for its focus on luxury properties and high-end clientele. Established in Hamburg, Germany, in 1977 by Dirk Engel and Christian Völkers, the brand has grown into a worldwide name with operations spanning more than 30 countries.

Since transitioning to a franchise model in 1998, Engel & Völkers has empowered independent professionals to offer its signature premium services under its globally recognized brand. The company specializes in the sale and leasing of upscale residential homes, commercial properties, and development ventures.

What sets Engel & Völkers apart is its commitment to the luxury market, a unified and elegant brand presentation, and a vast international network that enhances client reach and service quality.

The franchise also extends beyond real estate, offering elite brokerage services in the yachting and private aviation sectors—an added value for affluent customers seeking comprehensive lifestyle solutions.

Training

Engel & Völkers provides a detailed and multi-layered training structure designed to ensure franchisees and their teams are fully equipped to operate under the brand's standards. Here are the training programs provided by the franchisor:

1. Leadership Path Training (LPT)
   This is the core initial training program that must be attended by the franchisee, designated Principals, or the brokerage manager if they will be actively involved. It includes virtual or in-person sessions focused on brand systems, business planning, leadership, marketing tools, and operational strategies. Attendance is mandatory, and the Initial Franchise Fee covers training for one person.
2. Sales Advisor System Training (Engel & Völkers Engage)
   All sales advisors and support staff must complete this training. It is generally conducted via a virtual web-based platform and focuses on the specific sales systems and customer interaction strategies used within the Engel & Völkers framework.
3. Support Path Training (SPT)
   At least one staff member per franchise location, who supports sales advisors, must attend this specialized support training. It ensures internal administrative roles align with the brand's service expectations and operational protocols.
4. Refresher and Additional Training
   The franchisor may require or offer additional training periodically, which can be either mandatory or optional. These sessions address evolving brand practices, system updates, or specific operational needs, and are often customized to the franchisee's role or performance.

Territory Protection

Engel & Völkers provides franchisees with a “Protected Area,” which is typically defined by U.S. postal zip codes. Within this territory, the franchisor agrees not to place another Engel & Völkers Residential Real Estate Brokerage, as long as the franchisee is not in default.

This exclusivity applies to the establishment of physical brokerage locations and is intended to preserve market integrity for each franchisee. However, this territory protection does not prevent other franchisees, affiliates, or the franchisor from advertising, marketing, or even soliciting clients within the Protected Area.

They may conduct national or internet-based promotions that reach customers in any region, including areas granted to other franchisees. The franchisor also reserves the right to reduce the Protected Area if the franchisee fails to open agreed-upon additional locations.