How to be a successful franchise owner

Entering self-employment with enthusiasm

Your motivation is crucial and sets the tone for your journey. The key question is: Are you making the move to self-employment as a real estate agent after careful consideration and with great enthusiasm, or are you simply exploring it as an interesting alternative without much thought?

Generally speaking, businesses founded out of necessity tend to be less successful and are more likely to fail, primarily due to a lack of positive motivation. Only those who are truly convinced by and excited about their franchise partner can lead their business and team positively.

Success through organization in real estate franchising

If organization is half of life, then the real estate profession is certainly included. Why is having a solid, structured foundation so vital for your career start as a franchisee? Whether you're a newcomer to the field or an industry veteran, your new role as an independent real estate agent will involve a variety of formal tasks and a high volume of communication.

From filing systems to office furniture and supplies - create a clear, well-organized workspace and let structure pave your way to success.

Capital investment

Joining a franchise system always involves a certain level of capital investment, which is why it's crucial to carefully assess your financial situation. Our experienced agents recommend having a financial cushion, especially for the early stages of your business. For more on this, see our dedicated article on "Financing in Real Estate Franchising."

Transparency with your personal network

While becoming self-employed often feels like a solo journey, you are not alone. Especially in the early, more demanding phases, your personal support system - family, friends, and close acquaintances - can provide the strength you need. Be transparent and communicate openly about your plans so you can secure their support from the beginning.

Your personal commitment drives your franchise success

Even if you’re entering the world of entrepreneurship through a proven, successful business model, your personal commitment remains the most critical factor for success.

Our real estate experts emphasize that the initial phase is often labor-intensive. A highly motivated start lays the foundation for long-term success as a franchisee.

Social skills: A key to success in real estate

Before committing to an independent career within the Engel & Völkers franchise system, ask yourself the following: Can you lead and motivate a team? Do you enjoy working with people? Is direct customer interaction important to you? If you can answer these questions positively, a franchise partnership could be a strong fit.

Your social skills will not only enhance your client relations and team management but will also promote knowledge sharing with fellow franchisees. Social competence, teamwork, and leadership skills are cornerstones of success in any Engel & Völkers shop.

Real estate franchising: Also ideal for career changers

Prior work experience is valuable, but being a successful franchisee is more about how well you integrate your skills into the system. Why is this especially good news for newcomers to the real estate industry?

Thanks to internal training and educational programs - such as those offered by the Engel & Völkers Academy - knowledge gaps can be closed quickly, and strong expertise can be built. The training is tailored to the unique requirements of real estate franchising, ensuring all franchisees start on equal footing.

Choose a franchise concept you trust

As mentioned earlier, franchising offers both autonomy and structured guidelines laid out in the franchise agreement. Our agents emphasize that identifying with your franchisor’s business concept is essential for long-term success. Rely on a well-established model like the Engel & Völkers franchise system and leverage decades of experience to grow your own shop.

Passion, motivation, smbition – It’s all about the right mix

No matter how promising a business idea may be, the execution ultimately determines its success. In addition to choosing the right franchisor, it’s important to evaluate whether you meet the profile requirements and if franchising truly suits your goals.

Would you like personalized advice and more detailed insights into the Engel & Völkers franchise system? Our expansion managers would be happy to guide you through the process and answer all your questions. Get in touch today—and take the first step toward professional success as an independent real estate agent in Germany or Austria.