Windermere Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate

Information based on 2023 FDD

Real Estate · Other Real Estate Businesses

Investment min
$271K
Total: $271K–$1M
Avg gross revenue
N/A
Unit-level, 2023
Franchise fee
$25K
Per current disclosure
Royalty
5%
of gross revenue
Locations
314
Franchising since 1983

Description

What is Windermere Real Estate?

Windermere Real Estate, established in 1972, has grown into one of the most respected and trusted names in residential real estate across the Western United States. With a network of over 300 offices, Windermere has built its reputation on a foundation of exceptional client service, deep local market expertise, and a commitment to professional excellence.

What sets Windermere apart is their unique company culture that emphasizes building lasting relationships over mere transactions. Their agents are known for providing comprehensive, personalized guidance throughout the entire real estate journey, whether clients are buying their first home or selling an investment property. The company's deep-rooted commitment to community service through the Windermere Foundation further demonstrates their dedication to strengthening the neighborhoods they serve.

Windermere agents receive extensive training and have access to cutting-edge technology and marketing tools, enabling them to deliver superior results for their clients. Their collaborative approach allows agents to share market insights and property opportunities across their vast network, providing clients with expanded access to potential buyers and properties.

The company's success is reflected in their consistently high client satisfaction ratings and strong presence in premium markets. Windermere agents are particularly praised for their attention to detail, market knowledge, and ability to navigate complex negotiations effectively. Whether working with first-time homebuyers or experienced investors, Windermere Real Estate maintains its position as a leader in residential real estate by combining traditional values with modern innovation.
  • 50+ years proven market experience
  • 314 established franchise locations nationwide
  • Lower investment barrier than competitors
  • Western U.S. market specialization
  • Transaction-based revenue model flexibility
  • Established agent support infrastructure

Location Analysis

Where Windermere Real Estate wins

Windermere Real Estate demonstrates strong regional dominance in the Pacific Northwest, with widespread coverage across multiple states. The franchise shows particularly robust presence in Washington and maintains significant operations in Oregon and Colorado, creating a solid corridor of coverage along the western United States. This geographic concentration has enabled the brand to build strong market recognition and operational efficiency in these regions.

The franchise's impressive customer satisfaction ratings across numerous customer reviews indicates exceptional service quality and market performance, particularly in established territories. This high satisfaction rate suggests successful adaptation to local market demands and strong brand execution across different regions.

Expansion opportunities exist in underserved western states and potential eastward expansion, particularly in affluent suburban markets with strong population growth and robust real estate activity. Ideal locations for new franchises typically include areas with median home values above regional averages, strong population growth, and high-income demographics.

Successful Windermere locations tend to thrive in communities with active real estate markets, professional workforce populations, and strong economic indicators. The franchise's concentrated presence in the Pacific Northwest provides competitive advantages through brand recognition and established referral networks, though this also suggests untapped potential in other regions.
Total US locations
314
Franchise units
314
Corporate locations
0
Avg. sq. footage
N/A

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Financial Analysis

The numbers behind Windermere Real Estate

Avg gross revenueN/A
Investment range$271,000 – $1,171,000
Investment midpoint$721,000
Brand fund1%
Royalty5%
Franchise fee$25,000
Min. net worth
Min. liquid capital
Windermere Real Estate presents a significantly lower investment barrier with requirements of $271,000-$1,171,000, substantially below the sub-sector average of $1.47-$2.31 million. This positions it as an accessible entry point into real estate franchising, particularly attractive for experienced agents seeking brand affiliation rather than traditional brick-and-mortar franchise models.

The real estate industry benefits from consistent transaction-based revenue streams and strong market fundamentals, though cyclical economic factors create inherent volatility. Windermere's 50+ year operational history since 1972 demonstrates proven system resilience through multiple market cycles, while its 314-unit network indicates mature brand recognition primarily concentrated in Western markets.

The investment structure likely emphasizes territory rights and marketing support rather than physical buildout costs, making it suitable for established real estate professionals with existing client networks. Lower capital requirements suggest reduced operational complexity compared to traditional retail franchises, though success depends heavily on individual sales performance and local market conditions.

Ideal investors typically include licensed real estate agents with proven track records, strong local market knowledge, and sufficient working capital for marketing and business development. The franchise model offers brand leverage and system support while maintaining the entrepreneurial aspects of real estate sales. Prospective franchisees should carefully review territory availability, commission structures, and ongoing fee obligations outlined in the FDD before making investment decisions.
Did you know? Did you know that launching your own Windermere Real Estate franchise - one of the Pacific Northwest's most prestigious real estate brands with over 300 offices - requires a total investment between $271,000 and $1,171,000, which includes the $25,000 franchise fee plus all startup costs for office space, technology, marketing, and working capital to build your real estate empire in this premium market?

Financing partners

Vetted partners, tailored to franchisees

Your Franzy advisor can connect you with these partners later in the process — competitive rates, specialized in franchise financing.

FranFund

Lender

CRF USA

Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.

Lender

First Bank of the Lake

Lender

Pension Pros

Lender

FDD Item 7

Initial investment range

$271K–$1M
Most common
$271,000
Minimum
$721,000
Midpoint
$1,171,000
Maximum

Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $271,000 to $1,171,000. The midpoint $721,000 is what most franchisees report at signing — financing typically reduces cash-at-close by 80–90%. Knowing the investment range helps you plan confidently and ensure you're fully prepared to make the leap.

Growth over time

Franchise footprint

+3% YoY
400320240160800
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
314 units open as of 2023 FDD+10 in last 12 mo

2023 Franchise Disclosure

FDD documents

Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for Windermere Real Estate's 2023 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.

Estimated initial investment
FDD Item 7 · PDF
Financial performance representations
FDD Item 19 · PDF
Members-only items
Executive team
FDD Item 2 · PDF
Litigation
FDD Item 3 · PDF
Bankruptcy
FDD Item 4 · PDF
Franchisor assistance
FDD Item 11 · PDF
Members only
Unlock the 2023 FDD

Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.

Buyer FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The initial investment for a Windermere Real Estate franchise typically ranges between $271,000.00 and $1,171,000.00. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, real estate, and other startup costs. To get a detailed breakdown and better understand the financial requirements, we recommend scheduling a call with the Franzy team. We'll walk you through the specifics and answer any questions you might have. For more detailed information, refer to the financial sections of the FDD.

Disclaimer. The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2023. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.

Windermere Real Estate
Windermere Real Estate
N/A avg revenue · 314+ US franchises

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