Real estate franchise or independent agency? Caroline and Marc chose to open their agency with Swixim international in Sainte-Maxime

With their experience and qualifications, Caroline and Marc could have opened their real estate agency on their own. However, they chose to join a real estate franchise with Swixim international. Based in Sainte-Maxime, in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, they explain what made the difference, from the brand’s transparency to training they consider practical and directly applicable.

Who are Caroline and Marc, the new Swixim international franchisees in Sainte-Maxime?
Caroline and Marc are not new to real estate. Their project is based on two complementary backgrounds:
●    Caroline spent 15 years in construction before embarking on the Swixim international adventure.
●    Marc, born in Lyon, comes from a background in renovation and interior design.
Construction, renovation, property improvement: together, they have mastered real estate from A to Z. A rare asset when advising sellers and buyers in a market as demanding as that of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Real estate franchise or independent agency: why this choice?
This is a question many professionals ask themselves. Caroline and Marc had both options available to them: their experience and qualifications allowed them either to open a real estate agency from scratch or to join a franchise network.
They chose Swixim international for several reasons.
Transparency and quality communication. From their very first contacts, the couple appreciated the clarity of the discussions. What can be said, what cannot be said, and why: nothing is left unclear.
A mutual commitment. They describe a brand that is committed to its franchisees and expects the same commitment in return.
A family spirit. A network where people feel understood and supported, rather than just being a number on a list.
Pragmatism and a development plan. Marc highlights a pragmatic brand with a growth vision both for the French network and internationally.
Shared values. Finally, they found in Swixim international an expert partner that shares their high standards: professionalism and customer satisfaction.
“Swixim won us over through the consistency of its statements, its necessary yet unembellished commitment.”

A seamless integration, with no hidden issues
For Caroline and Marc, integration into the network did not begin at the time of signing. It has been part of the continuity of the entire process: genuine support from their first discussion with the development team through to the training.
What impressed them was the quality of the follow-up and information. No embellished promises, no grey areas: what was presented to them at the outset matches what they are experiencing today. They fully identify with the network’s entrepreneurial values.

What is Swixim international training like in Geneva?
Caroline and Marc attended the initial training at the Geneva headquarters, led by Nathalie Caminati, Vice President of Swixim international. Their verdict can be summed up in one word: pragmatism.
A genuine professional experience. In their view, this is not a marketing offering, even though it is well presented, but a clear and precise process derived from real-world experience.
Visual materials that align with the sales process. The illustrations used make it possible to visualize each stage of the sale in practical terms.
A committed trainer. Both emphasize Nathalie’s involvement, which makes the training dynamic. This is far from one-way information with no practical application: everyone leaves with tools they can use immediately.
“Tomorrow, we can put the key in the door and open without any problems. We have the keys, we have the confidence and assurance, and we know we will be supported afterwards.”

What their experience teaches professionals who are still hesitating
Caroline and Marc’s testimonial provides useful insight for anyone comparing a real estate franchise with an independent agency:
●    even with experience, an established sales process saves time;
●    the brand’s transparency before signing is a good indicator of the relationship that follows;
●    practical training makes it possible to open quickly and with confidence;
●    a French and international network multiplies local opportunities.

Are you considering opening your own real estate agency?

Like Caroline and Marc in Sainte-Maxime, you can develop your own agency with the support of the Swixim international network: training, tools such as Mandat Garanties® and openStore® 7/7, and long-term support. Talk to our team to check whether your project and area are a good fit.