@properties is a full-service real estate franchise and brokerage brand focused on residential and commercial property services. The company was founded in 2000 in Chicago, Illinois, by real estate professionals Mike Golden and Thad Wong.

It was created to modernize the traditional brokerage model through innovation, branding, and agent-centric tools. Over time, the brand has grown into one of the largest independent real estate firms in the United States.

The @properties franchise is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and operates with a strong emphasis on technology and operational efficiency. The brand developed a proprietary technology ecosystem known as pl@tform™, which integrates marketing, transaction management, data analytics, and client relationship tools.

This system allows agents and franchisees to manage listings, clients, and deals more efficiently. Technology remains a core pillar of the company’s growth strategy.

@properties officially began franchising in 2020, expanding its brokerage model to independent real estate owners nationwide.

Training

@properties offers a detailed training program designed to ensure that franchisees and their teams are well-prepared to operate in line with the brand’s expectations. The training includes the following components:

Initial Training Program
Franchisees are required to have their Responsible Broker, Office Broker, Marketing Director, and Agent Support Director complete the franchisor's initial training program. This training, which includes both classroom and hands-on components, takes place in Chicago, IL, and covers topics such as branding, marketing, software usage, recruiting, and office setup. The training is provided at no charge, though the franchisee must cover all associated travel, lodging, and meal expenses.

Additional and Ongoing Training
@properties may require franchisees or their staff to attend additional training sessions, refresher courses, or conferences. These may take place online or in person and could involve a fee based on the franchisor’s current rates. Attendance at such sessions is sometimes mandatory and considered essential for staying aligned with operational standards.

Specialized Programs
The franchisor may also develop supplementary programs such as "@academy" for real estate agents or "Founder Mentoring" for senior leadership. These programs are designed to provide targeted skills and mentorship and may be introduced at the franchisor’s discretion. Participation in these programs may involve additional requirements and expenses for the franchisee.

Territory Protection

@properties may grant a Protected Territory to its franchisees, typically defined by zip codes, counties, or geographic designations. Within this area, the franchisor will not establish or license other @properties businesses, as long as the franchisee complies with the agreement.

However, the agreement clearly states that franchisees will not receive an "exclusive" territory, and the franchisor reserves the right to grant licenses and operate other businesses under different trademarks.

Franchisees may operate outside of their Protected Territory only within the U.S., and only if services originate from their approved office. However, the franchisor or its affiliates may still provide services within a franchisee’s Protected Territory as long as those services originate from outside it.