James M. Weichert, president of Weichert, Realtors, announced that Weichert Real Estate Affiliates will soon begin offering Weichert-branded real estate franchises to real estate brokers.
"Over the years, we’ve often been contacted by many people interested in a Weichert franchise, so we are very excited to offer real estate brokers the prospect of an affiliation with our company," said Weichert. "Becoming a dual-distributor company will create an excellent opportunity for our company to dramatically expand its service area. In turn, local real estate brokers will be able to offer our unique brand of real estate services. We believe the franchise opportunity is a win for everyone
for us, for our affiliates, and most importantly for our customers and clients."
The 200 sales offices that are currently part of Weichert, Realtors will remain company-owned offices. The Weichert franchise will be offered to brokers outside of the company’s current market area as soon as all necessary franchise registrations and filings are accomplished with appropriate government agencies.
Martin J. Rueter, a former senior executive of Century 21 Real Estate Corp., will serve as president of Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., the new real estate franchising entity. Mr. Rueter joins Weichert with more than 35 years of experience in real estate and in growing franchise operations. Joining Mr. Rueter are Bill Scott as vice president of franchise affiliation and Les Shoaf as vice president of operations, both former Century 21 executives. Mr. Scott and Mr. Shoaf each have more than 20 years of real estate franchising experience.
Not only will Weichert-franchised offices carry the familiar company name and signage, but they will also have access to the expansive programs and services available through the Weichert Family of Companies, including mortgage, insurance, title, pre-licensing schools and relocation services. In addition, sales associates of Weichert-franchised offices will have access to Weichert, Realtors’ training, marketing materials and technology services. They may also participate in life, health, disability and retirement benefits packages offered through Weichert Insurance Agency.
For more information, visit Weichert’s Web site at www.weichert.com.

