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Independent Contractor Agreement
This document does not encompass all policies and procedures. The absence of a specific policy, or specific language regarding a policy, does not constitute approval for any action, nor may it be interpreted as consent to practices or requests outside the intended scope of the agreement. No omission shall be construed to authorize behavior inconsistent with the spirit, intent, or reasonable expectations of this document.
This agreement intends to outline the general terms and conditions for independent contractors working with Epique Realty.
By entering into this agreement, both parties acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of the terms outlined herein. It is essential for contractors to review this document thoroughly before engaging in any work on behalf of Epique Realty. If there are any questions or concerns regarding the agreement, contractors are encouraged to contact our team for clarification.
Epique Realty holds the right to amend and update the terms of this agreement as necessary, without notice given to all contractors. Contractors are expected to comply with all state and federal laws, NAR rules, as well as industry regulations, throughout the duration of their work with Epique Realty.
Updated 04/27/2025 — See Changelog
Agreement Definitions & Notices
Key Definitions
"Anniversary Date": The yearly anniversary of the contractor joining Epique Realty. If a contractor leaves Epique and returns, the anniversary date will reflect the new return date as the contractor's start date and all caps, awards, etc that come with longevity will be reset accordingly.
"Agent" or "Sales Agent" or "Associate Agent" or "Contractor" or "Independent Contractor" refers to an individual with a state or province-issued real estate license that is approved to sell real estate and supervised by a Managing Broker.
"Broker" or "Managing Broker" refers to the individual licensed by the state or province to oversee and supervise the activities of real estate agents and contractors.
"Company" or "Brokerage" refers to Epique Realty, the real estate company that the agent or contractor is affiliated with.
"Association" or "Board" refers to the local, state, or national real estate association or board that the agent or contractor is a member of.
Important Notices
1. Notices: Epique Realty will provide agents with written notice for any important updates, changes, or requirements related to the Independent Contractor Agreement. Agents are expected to read and comply with all notices from the brokerage.
2. Policy violations: Any actions by the agent that violate the policies and procedures outlined in the Epique Realty Policies and Procedures Manual are considered unauthorized and outside the authority of the agent-broker relationship. The agent will be solely responsible for any expenses or losses resulting from such policy violations.
3. Expense reimbursement: Any of "Independent Contractor's" actions that violate the provisions of this policies and procedures manual are unauthorized and outside the authority of the "Managing Broker – Independent Contractor" relationship. All expense or loss arising out of "Independent Contractor's" acts shall be borne solely by "Independent Contractor".
4. No waiver by Broker: The "Managing Broker's" failure to enforce any provision of this Agreement or the policies and procedures manual at any time shall not be construed as a waiver of the "Managing Broker's" right to enforce each and every provision of this Agreement or the policies and procedures manual. The "Managing Broker's" rights under this Agreement are cumulative and are in addition to any other rights the "Managing Broker" may have at law or in equity.
5. Governing Law and Forum: Texas law, Harris County jurisdiction. The validity, construction, interpretation of this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to principles of conflicts of law.
Legal Relationship & Responsibilities
The relationship between Epique Realty and its agents is strictly that of an independent contractor, not an employee. This distinction carries important legal and financial implications.
Statement of Agency
Agents act as independent contractors supervised by the Managing Broker. No employer-employee relationship exists at any time during affiliation with Epique Realty.
Licenses & Permits
Contractors are solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining all required real estate licenses, permits, and continuing education credits.
Workers' Compensation
Contractors must provide their own workers' compensation insurance with a waiver of subrogation in favor of the Company.
Taxes & Benefits
Contractors handle all tax obligations including income and self-employment taxes. No employee benefits are provided by the Company.
Termination & Client Release
The Independent Contractor Agreement may be terminated through several pathways, each with specific obligations regarding client relationships and ongoing transactions.
License Status Changes
Immediate termination occurs if agent's license expires, is suspended, or revoked by licensing authority.
2
Required Membership in Association
As a condition of continued engagement, the Independent Contractor will maintain active membership in the national real estate association. Failure to uphold this requirement may result in immediate termination of the agreement.
Breach of Agreement
Violation of policies, procedures, or ethical standards constitutes grounds for termination.
Termination at Will
Either party may terminate the relationship without cause with proper notice.
Client Release
Upon termination, all listings and clients are immediately released from Epique Realty.
The new brokerage will pay a 15% referral fee on any closed transactions to Epique Realty upon closing for those released clients, valid for up to 12 months following the termination date.
6
Agent Offboarding
Agent is required to submit written communication to their state broker, notifying them of their intent to depart, including the intended final day of association with the company along with any company inventory in their possession and benefits enrolled in, along with any transition plans for current clients or transactions.
Company may opt to keep listings, clients, and/or contracts at its discretion.
When transferring active clients to another brokerage, agents may be entitled to referral fees on pending transactions but cannot claim future commissions.
The agent must follow all legal and ethical requirements when transferring clients. They should communicate clearly about the transfer and adhere to any obligations regarding referral fees and future commissions. Failure to comply with these terms may result in legal action.
STOCK, REV SHARE, & BENEFITS UPON TERMINATION:
Upon termination, the agent will no longer be eligible for any benefits and all existing benefits will be cancelled immediately. Any unvested restricted stock units (RSUs) will be forfeited, and the agent will not receive any future payouts or vesting of RSUs.
However, any vested RSUs held by the agent at the time of termination will be purchased by the company at the same rate paid by the contractor. Prior to a public offering, any gifted shares, vested or non-vested, will be forfeited upon termination of sponsorship or of agreement.
Additionally, the agent will no longer be eligible for any revenue share payments upon termination. All revenue share agreements will be immediately cancelled, and the agent will not receive any future revenue share payouts.
Refund Policy: No refunds will be provided for any monthly dues, products or services purchased from the company. Once a purchase is made, it is considered final and non-refundable. Customers are encouraged to review all products and services carefully before making a purchase.
Commission Structure & Transactions
1
Receipt of Commission
All compensation received or earned by Independent Contractor for performing licensed activities must be paid directly to Company unless Company has authorized, in writing, an alternative method of payment.
2
Payment of Commission
All compensation earned by Independent Contractor will be paid by Company directly to the Independent Contractor unless otherwise agreed upon in writing by Company and Independent Contractor. Company will pay compensation to Independent Contractor's entity only if Independent Contractor provides evidence of being properly licensed and is in Good Standing with The Company.
3
Commission Split: 85/15
Company will receive 15% of Gross Commission and agent will receive 85% of Gross Commission. The Company shall receive 15% from the Gross Commission. The agent's commission may be split in the event of a referral payout, loan repayment, or third party obligation by agent.
4
Transaction Fee
0.1% of the Gross Sales Price per Sale Transaction. This does not apply to residential leases. Transaction fees cap at $500 per transaction. Transaction fees are deducted from all transactions.
5
Transaction Fee is NOT a Transaction Coordinator Fee
This fee is solely for transaction purposes and does not cover the services of a transaction coordinator. Like all benefits, the company's profits cover the expenses related to the services of a transaction coordinator, as a benefit, where available. The Transaction Fee is distinct from any payment to a Transaction Coordinator. Lack of TC services or use of TC services, do not reduce an agent's transaction fee or transaction fee obligation.
Transaction Fees & Commission Caps
Transaction Fee Structure
0.1% of gross sales price for all transactions, capped at $500.
Fee reduces to $250 max after paying $5,000 in total fees.
Annual Commission Cap
Caps apply to company commission only, resetting on anniversary date.
Reduces by $1,000 each year until reaching $10,000 minimum.
Personal Transactions
100% commission split for ONE personal deal annually.
Still subject to transaction fees and requires good standing.
Transaction fees are always deducted, even after reaching commission cap. Fees don't count toward caps or Power Award status. For PowerTeamsâ„¢, the transaction fee is always $250.
Personal transaction commissions aren't included in Revenue Share calculations and don't count toward commission caps.
Fees & Good Standing Requirements
1
Technology Fees
Monthly Technology fees are automatically processed via Debit or Credit Card as provided by Contractor. The technology fee is $149 a month.
2
Late Fees
All payments billed to the Contractor from the Company for recurring payments, monthly Fees, programs opted in, and any other fees billed or back-billed for reimbursement per written agreements and policies are due within 10 days from the date of billing. Any billing that is more than 30 days past due will be assessed a minimum of $25 late fee per month or the maximum amount allowed under State law.
3
Good Standing
If a Contractor's account reaches 90 days past due/delinquent, the Company may terminate this Agreement and any/all pending commission payments, non-vested equity interest, non-vested crypto, unpaid revenue share, unpaid equity awards, unpaid profit share, and all memberships and associations shall be forfeited to the company. Agents are not eligible for Revenue Share if they are not in good standing.
Benefits & Equity Program
Free Benefits
Benefits and Perks advertised as "free" are considered so as they were added as additional perks without an increase in costs to the agents. These are considered extra benefits that are paid for and levied against the company's profits, not the agent's expenses.
The availability or unavailability of these benefits does not change any fee structure for agents.
Benefits including, but not limited to: Free Listing Photos, Facebook Ads, Free Signage and Installation does not apply to leases, lots, or land.
Restricted Stock Awards (RSU)
Epique, Inc., at the Board's discretion, now offers Restricted Stock Awards to agents in Good Standing with the Company. Stock may be awarded for:
  • Joining Epique for the first time: 50 Shares or $500 worth of Stock (whichever is less).
  • Anniversary Date: 50 Shares or $500 worth of Stock (whichever is less).
  • Recruiting an Agent: 25 Shares or $250 worth of Stock (whichever is less).
  • Selling your first home with Epique: 50 Shares or $500 worth of Stock (whichever is less). Gross sales price must be $75,000 and up, personal transactions do not qualify.
  • Capping: 100 Shares or $1,000 worth of Stock (whichever is less).
  • Power Award Status: Up to 1,500 Shares or up to $15,000 worth of Stock (whichever is less) as commensurate with agent's current cap (i.e. a $12,000 Cap = 1,200 shares of stock or $12,000 worth of Stock (whichever is less)).
Restricted Stock Awards: Important Details
Vesting Period
Stock vests after 3 years from earned date. Unvested shares are forfeited upon termination.
Purchase Options
Agents can purchase stock at 20% discount using up to 10% of commission.
Private Company
Epique, Inc. is privately held. Future public offering may be pursued but not guaranteed.
Liquidity Options
Shares cannot be sold to third parties. Liquidity available after vesting via pre-IPO partners or IPO.
There may be costs associated with share ownership imposed by third parties. The board may change award amounts or methods at any time with prior notice.
If you have questions about stocks, vesting, or shares, please consult with a financial advisor.
Power Award Agents
Epique's exclusive Power Award program recognizes top-performing agents with enhanced benefits and incentives.
Qualification Requirements
Invitation-only status extended by Epique Executive team members. Requires 24+ transactions OR $10 Million in gross sales during your anniversary year.
Equity Benefits
Up to 1,500 shares or $15,000 in company equity (whichever is less), commensurate with your current cap level.
Enhanced Revenue Share
Double revenue share (20%) for first-level recruits while maintaining Power Award status. Standard 10% applies to levels 2-5.
Reduced Fees
Technology fee reduced to just $99/month, significantly lower than standard agent fees.
The Board may modify program benefits as the company grows. Maintaining Power Award status is required to continue receiving enhanced benefits.
Maintaining Power Award Status: Continued participation in the program is contingent upon meeting the performance criteria outlined in the Power Award program guidelines. Agents are encouraged to maximize their potential by consistently meeting or exceeding the established transaction and sales volume thresholds. Failure to maintain the criteria may result in the loss of benefits associated with the Power Award status.
Benefits & Perks Program
Epique offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our independent contractors. These benefits are considered additional perks without increasing costs to agents, paid for and levied against the company's profits, not the agent's expenses.
Unavailability of Benefits
Please note that the availability or unavailability of these benefits does not change the fee structure for agents. All perks are subject to the Good Standing requirements as outlined in the previous section.
One State Only
Some Local Benefits are for one state only. This includes, but is not limited to services like Billboards, Car Washes, and CE Courses. National benefits like healthcare and technology are not affected.
See All Benefits
You can sign up for Benefits using Epique Cloud App or at epique.cloud from your computer.
Abuse of Benefits
Epique Realty provides agents with access to exclusive benefits, tools, services, and platforms intended solely for their personal and professional use in the course of conducting real estate business under the Company. These benefits may not be repackaged, resold, transferred, or marked up for profit under any circumstances.
Any misuse or abuse of benefits—including but not limited to unauthorized sharing, mark-up, re-sale, or misrepresentation of access—constitutes a violation of this Agreement. If, in the sole discretion of the Company, an agent is found to have engaged in such behavior, the Company reserves the right to immediately suspend or revoke access to the benefit(s) in question.
In cases of severe or intentional abuse, including monetization or fraudulent representation of company-provided resources, Epique Realty may pursue termination of this Agreement and release of the agent's license from the brokerage.
Restricted Stock Awards (RSU)
Epique, Inc., at the Board's discretion, offers Restricted Stock Awards to agents in Good Standing with the Company. The following stock awards are available:
New Agent Bonus
Joining Epique for the first time: 50 Shares or $500 worth of Stock (whichever is less)
Anniversary Award
Anniversary Date: 50 Shares or $500 worth of Stock (whichever is less)
Recruitment Incentive
Recruiting an Agent: 25 Shares or $250 worth of Stock (whichever is less)
First Sale Bonus
Selling your first home with Epique: 50 Shares or $500 worth of Stock (whichever is less)
Purchasing Stock
Agents also have the opportunity to purchase additional company stock at a discounted rate through the employee stock purchase program. This program allows agents to invest in the company's future and potentially benefit from its growth and success.
Agents can take advantage of this program by setting aside a portion of their commission to acquire more shares of the company's stock. By participating in the employee stock purchase program, agents can align their financial interests with those of the company, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in its performance. This opportunity not only provides agents with potential financial benefits but also strengthens their commitment to Epique, Inc.
Team Structures & Requirements
Family Teams
2+ person Team of Family Members, $15,000 Cap for Team Leader, $10,000 Cap for Team Members and $99 monthly tech fee for each Team Leader and Team Member
Traditional Teams
2+ person Team, $15,000 Cap for Team Leader, $10,000 Cap for Team Members, $149 monthly tech fee for Team Leader and $99 monthly tech fee for Team Members
Unofficial Teams
2+ person high production Team, $15,000 Cap for Team Leader, $5,000 Cap for Team Members, $149 monthly tech fee for Team Leader and $99 monthly tech fee for Team Members
Power Teams
2+ person Team, $15,000 Cap for Team Leader, $15,000 Cap for Team Members, $149 monthly tech fee for Team Leaders and each Team Member
Team Structure Guidelines
All team structures have specific qualification requirements to maintain compliance and ensure proper team operations.
All teams are limited to recruiting no more than 5 existing Epique agents to preserve brokerage sustainability.
Team Requirements: Legal & Branding
1
DBA Registration
Every team using a Team Name must register a DBA locally in accordance with regulations.
2
Licensing Authority
Team names must be properly registered with the State or Provincial Licensing Authority.
3
Company Approval
Team Structure, Team Name and Team branding require advance approval before use. Email teams@epiquerealty.com for guidance, approval or Team questions.
4
Branding Guidelines
Logos, colors, and all team branding elements need written Company approval prior to use.
Advertising Definitions & Prohibitions
Clear advertising guidelines protect both agents and Epique, Inc. from compliance issues while maintaining brand integrity.
"Advertisement"
Any communication designed to attract the public to use real estate services, including publications, broadcasts, electronic media, business materials, and signage.
"Alternate Name"
A name used by an agent other than their licensed name (middle name, maiden name, nickname), excluding common derivatives.
"Assumed Business Name"
Any name used by the Managing Broker other than their licensed name, excluding team names or alternate names.
"Team Name"
A collective name used by a group of Independent Contractors performing real estate activities together.
Key Advertising Prohibitions
Identity Misrepresentation
Never identify as a company or use titles implying you manage the brokerage. All ads must include Company name/logo.
Misleading Content
Avoid content that deceives, creates false impressions, or implies exclusivity over geographical areas.
3
Listing Ethics
Don't advertise properties without listing Company permission or continue listing ads 10+ days after agreements end.
Rebate Transparency
All rebate offers must disclose approval requirements and any restrictions that may apply.
Advertising Compliance Requirements
All Epique agents must ensure advertising materials maintain complete regulatory compliance to protect both individual and brokerage interests.
  • Local & State Laws: Comply with all state, county, city, provincial, and territorial regulations governing real estate advertising.
  • Federal Regulations: Adhere to RESPA, TILA, Fair Housing Act, ADA, and all electronic marketing laws.
  • Municipal Rules: Follow local ordinances regarding signage, billboards, and physical advertising displays.
  • Financial Compliance: Maintain adherence to credit and third-party financing requirements in all materials.
  • Professional Standards: Uphold NAR Code of Ethics, particularly Article 12 regarding truthful representation.
Advertising & Marketing Guidelines
All Epique agents must adhere to strict advertising guidelines to maintain legal compliance and protect our brand integrity.
Trademark Usage
Only authorized marks may be used (REALTOR®, Association-approved logos). All usage must comply with licensing agreements and require Company approval.
Pre-Publication Requirements
All advertising materials must be submitted to admin@epiquerealty.com for approval before publication. Property advertising requires owner's written consent.
Branding Rules
Company name must appear at half the size of largest contact information. Never use "Epique" in personal websites, usernames, handles, or email addresses.
Disclosure Requirements
All ads must display agent name/team, Company name, and license number if locally required. Social media may link to this information.
Digital Marketing Compliance
Email Marketing
Unsolicited mass emails prohibited. Follow all local/national laws regarding email solicitation.
Cold Calling
Auto-dialers prohibited. No overseas call centers. Adhere to Do Not Call regulations.
Online Presence
Websites must include privacy policies. All data collection must comply with applicable regulations.
Advertising Contracts
All vendor agreements for marketing services require prior written Company approval.
Name Registration Requirements
Alternate names, team names, and DBAs require proper registration with licensing authorities and Company notification within 10 days of any changes.
Logo & Brand Design Guidelines
Logo Usage
Epique logo required on all marketing materials. Never stretch, mask, color, or alter the logo in any way.
Typography
Graphik font for "EPIQUE" in all caps. Approved alternatives include Lato, Avenir Next, Helvetica Neue, and Open Sans.
Color Scheme
Dark Gray (#434345), Black (#000000), and Gold (#BCA480) form our luxury brand palette. Black or white backgrounds only.
The "Q" power symbol is a registered trademark of Epique, Inc. Text effects, overlays, and 3D styles require written approval. Gold should be used only as an accent color.
Agents must follow all local and state regulations regarding branding. Never use Epique branding to represent another business without express approval.
Agent Attraction & Revenue Share
1
2
3
4
5
1
Level 1
Your direct recruits
2
Level 2
Recruits of your Level 1
3
Level 3
Recruits of your Level 2
4
Level 4
Recruits of your Level 3
5
Level 5
Recruits of your Level 4
Revenue Share
Epique offers 10% of Company Revenue for each transaction by all Recruits in all 5 Levels.
Payment Schedule
Revenue Share will be sent to Associate on the 15th of each month automatically for all closings involving their Recruit from the previous calendar month.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, Associates must be an active Agent in Good Standing with Epique Realty, be current on all fees, and be current in all Association fees and MLS dues.
Vesting occurs after 36 months - both associate and recruit in the downline must be with the company for a minimum of 36 months for Revenue Share to be considered vested. In the event of voluntary separation, the Associate will earn Revenue Share from vested Revenue Streams only.
Company Spots in Downline
In the event a Recruit leaves the Company, the Company shall be placed in the downline to represent that spot. The downline will not shift due to a Recruit leaving and all levels will remain the same, even if all Recruits from a Level have left, the downline will not shift and the Company will take a spot to hold that Level.
Recruiting Teams / Brokerages
Stacking Prohibited
When recruiting teams or brokerages at once, or over a short amount of time, "stacking" is prohibited.
Joining Restrictions
Teams must join no deeper than 3 Levels upon joining. With the third level capped at 5 agents.
Examples:
✓ Example 1 (allowed):
  • Level 1 -- Team Leader
  • Level 2 -- All Agents
✓ Example 2 (allowed):
  • Level 1 -- Team Leader
  • Level 2 -- Manager + Agents
  • Level 3 -- Up to 5 Agents under Manager
X Example 3 (stacking while joining not allowed):
  • Level 1 -- Team Leader
  • Level 2 -- Manager
  • Level 3 -- Another Agent
  • Level 4 -- Another Agent
  • Level 5 -- All other agents
Sponsorship Levels
Team Leaders and Team Members may sponsor agents up to 5 levels deep, but stacking upon joining is prohibited.
Laws of Attraction
When attracting new agents to Epique Realty, follow these key guidelines:
1
Professional Conduct
Uphold company standards and NAR code of ethics at all times.
2
Accurate Information
Stay current on all company policies and benefits before recruiting.
3
No Overpromising
Avoid promising special deals or additional benefits to potential recruits.
4
Respect Boundaries
Remember Epique isn't for everyone—avoid being pushy.
5
Communication Compliance
Follow Do-Not-Call regulations and avoid mass texts/emails.
6
Company Materials Only
Use approved marketing materials for all attraction efforts.
7
No Interference
Always ask if recruits are already speaking with another Epique associate.
8
Full Engagement
Remain available to answer questions throughout the entire onboarding process.
9
No Sponsorship Changes
Recruits must name you on their application—no exceptions or changes will ever be made for any reason.
10
Inclusive Events
All company events must be open to all agents regardless of downline.
Key Points
1
Rev Share Payments
The Company shall pay Revenue Share on the 15th of each month for all of the previous calendar month's closings. Agents who owe the Company money will not receive Rev Share the month in which they are behind. This can include monthly dues, monies owed, etc.
2
Termination
In the event the Associate chooses to leave the Brokerage and Terminate sponsorship, non-vested Revenue Share will be forfeited upon Termination of Sponsorship. In the event the Associate breaches the terms specified herein, or has failed to conduct his position in accordance with the applicable law, or within the expectations of the Entity, the Entity is entitled to cancel this agreement, and/or terminate sponsorship of the Associate. Associates may not attract agents away from Entity until 30 days after the Termination of this agreement has been fulfilled.
3
Manipulating Revenue Share / Hacking Rev Share
Associates joining agree not to attempt to increase their revenue share through means of stacking, falsifying information, manipulating transactions, dishonesty, etc. Manipulation can take many forms and it is impossible to predict future ways in which this may occur. The company holds complete authority to Terminate any agent who it feels is engaging in Manipulation, Scheming in any unsavory way in order to increase their Revenue Share. This includes finding loopholes, coordinated efforts to obfuscate information related to revenue share that would reveal such manipulation. Terminated agents are not eligible for Revenue Share in any way. The company will also pursue any criminal or legal means necessary to recover any funds lost, or to enforce any laws broken.
4
Modification or Termination
This program, like all Company programs, is subject to modification or termination at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
Termination & Vesting Explained
We take our partnership seriously, but sometimes things don't work out. Here's what happens if your agreement with Epique is terminated:
1
Involuntary Termination
If you breach our agreement or fail to meet our standards, we can cancel your contract and end your sponsorship. Any unvested revenue share will be forfeited.
Pending revenue share from previous month will not be paid out if involuntary termination occurs before the date in which Rev Share is paid.
2
Early Retirement / Voluntary Departure (Non-Competing)
Once your revenue share is fully vested after 36 months, you're free to leave Epique and continue receiving your vested earnings as long as you comply with the terms of this agreement and remain in good standing.
Vested Rev Share includes all agents in your downline. A $99/month program fee will apply to remain in good standing and continue receiving Revenue Share. This will not gain you access to any additional benefits or systems from Epique. Your revenue share may shrink as agents leave or it may grow as they join.
3
Competing Company
If you join a competitor after leaving The Company, your revenue share ends immediately and all vested and unvested earnings revert back to Epique. This cannot be reversed.
4
Incapacitation or Death
In the unfortunate event of your permanent incapacitation or passing, your full revenue share stream can transfer to a designated beneficiary, no vesting required.
Remember, Epique reserves the right to modify or terminate this program at any time. Adherence to our policies is essential.
No A-hole Policy
Epique Realty is built on helping, supporting, and caring for our community. We work with the best human beings who align with our values.
Defined Behaviors
An "a**hole" acts selfishly, displays an inflated ego, undermines our mission, or negatively impacts our community.
Zero Tolerance
Such behavior results in immediate termination and license release without prior notice.
Our Environment
We foster a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered through respect and collaboration.
We want Epique to be the place people want to be. We can't accomplish that with a bunch of a**holes running around.
Non-Compete & Multi-State Agents
Non-Compete Provisions
Independent Contractors agree not to engage with competing brokerages while affiliated with Epique Realty.
  • No simultaneous affiliations with other brokerages
  • Confidential information must be protected
  • Client relationships remain with Epique during contract term
Multi-State Licensing
Associates may operate in multiple states with proper licensing and compliance.
  • All licenses must be on file with Epique
  • State-specific laws must be followed
  • License renewal documentation required
Compliance Requirements
Multi-state agents must maintain Good Standing in all licensed jurisdictions.
  • Current MLS memberships in all regions
  • Association dues must remain current
  • State-specific continuing education must be completed
Equity Incentive Program Addendum
The Epique Equity Incentive Program allows agents in Good Standing to receive company common stock as payment for up to 10% of earned commissions. This innovative program represents a significant opportunity for our agents to build wealth beyond traditional income streams. Available to U.S. agents only, this program was formally adopted on May 24, 2023 following unanimous board approval.
Eligibility
All agents and brokers in Good Standing qualify for participation. This includes maintaining current license requirements, adherence to company policies, and having no outstanding compliance issues. New agents become eligible after completing their first transaction with Epique Realty.
2
Commission Conversion
Convert up to 10% of net Contractor Dollar Amount into equity shares. Agents can adjust their participation percentage quarterly through the agent portal. The minimum conversion amount is 1% of commission, while the maximum is capped at 10% to ensure appropriate cash flow for agents.
Share Pricing
Shares are priced at a 20% discount from assessed company value, determined quarterly by an independent third-party valuation firm. This discount represents significant potential value for participants, especially as the company grows. All share prices are communicated to agents before the start of each quarter.
4
Issuance Timeline
Shares are issued on the month's last trading day when accumulated value reaches $250 or more. Values under $250 roll over to the next month until the threshold is met. Agents receive electronic confirmation of all share issuances through our secure portal system within 24 hours of processing.
Participation is voluntary and can be canceled with 30-day written notice submitted to the Equity Program Administrator. The program may be modified or terminated at the board's discretion with 90 days advance notice to participants. All shares are initially held in an account created in the participant's name and managed by our designated equity management partner.
Tax implications vary by individual circumstances. Epique recommends consulting with a personal tax advisor regarding potential tax consequences of equity ownership. Annual tax documentation will be provided by February 15th for the previous calendar year's equity transactions. Participants must complete Form W-9 before receiving their first equity award.
In the event of separation from the company, any pending share issuances below the $250 threshold will be processed in the participant's final month with the company, regardless of accumulated value. Agents who have questions about the Equity Incentive Program should contact the Agent Success team or review the comprehensive program guide available in the agent portal.
Fiduciary Duties & Representation Requirements
As an Independent Contractor with Epique Realty, you have the highest level of fiduciary duty to your clients. This includes trust, confidentiality, honesty, performance, loyalty, and reasonable care.
1
Define Relationship
Clearly explain if party is a client, customer, unrepresented party, or represented by another broker.
Disclose Status
Reveal your role as Sales Agent in writing, especially when personally involved in transactions.
Handle Intermediary Relationships
Consult with Managing Broker before entering dual agency situations.
4
Document Everything
Obtain written buyer representation agreements showing all commission arrangements.
Representation Disclosure Requirements
Always disclose who you represent at first contact with any party. Explain agency concepts thoroughly, including your special agency status, compensation terms, and authority granted.
Never interfere with existing representation relationships. Maintain strict confidentiality of all parties' information, especially in intermediary situations.
BUYER REPRESENTATION IN WRITING: Agents are required to complete and have signed a Buyer's Representation form as promulgated by their State Commission, Local Association, or the Epique Buyer's Representation form. The representation form must show all commissions earned by each side of the transaction as well as who is responsible for payment of the commission.
Automobile Insurance Requirements
  • Minimum Coverage: Independent Contractors must maintain automobile insurance meeting state minimum requirements at all times when conducting Company business.
  • Additional Insured: Epique Realty must be named as an additional insured on all automobile insurance policies used for business purposes.
  • Documentation: Proof of current insurance coverage must be submitted to admin@epiquerealty.com annually or upon policy renewal.
  • Liability Protection: Comprehensive coverage is strongly recommended to protect both Agent and Company from potential claims arising from accidents.
  • Compliance Requirement: Maintaining proper automobile insurance is a condition of Good Standing with Epique Realty.
Required Notices & Record Management
Recovery of Funds
All amounts owed must be paid in full upon departure. Contractors are responsible for collection fees, legal fees, and third-party recovery costs. This includes any outstanding desk fees, transaction fees, or other financial obligations. Payment plans may be considered with written approval from management.
Non-Compete/Non-Disclosure
No engagement with competing brokerages. All transactions must involve Epique Realty. Confidential company information cannot be shared with outside parties. This includes client lists, marketing strategies, training materials, and proprietary processes. Violations may result in legal action and financial penalties.
Code of Conduct
Agents must comply with NAR standards and refrain from discriminatory behavior. Public actions reflect on the company and may result in dismissal. This includes maintaining professional communication in all client interactions, social media presence, and community activities. Agents must participate in annual fair housing training.
Conflict Resolution
Disputes between agents or with clients must follow the company's resolution protocol. Initial concerns should be addressed to team leaders, followed by broker intervention if needed. Third-party mediation is available for complex disputes not resolved through internal channels.
Communication Requirements
All client communications must be documented and retained. Agents must respond to client inquiries within 24 hours. Company announcements and policy updates require acknowledgment within 48 hours. Failure to maintain communication standards may affect Good Standing status.
Record Management Requirements
Required Records
Disclosures, contracts, compensation agreements, receipts, leases, appraisals, and all agreements between parties. This includes electronic communications, transaction worksheets, referral documentation, and all marketing materials used in the transaction.
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Retention Period
All records maintained for minimum of 5 years regardless of local regulations. May be kept longer if allowed. Digital records must include backup systems with appropriate security protocols. Paper records must be stored in secure, fire-resistant locations with limited access.
Confidentiality
Client personal and financial information remains confidential even after agent termination. This includes maintaining GDPR compliance where applicable and ensuring proper disposal of sensitive documents through shredding or secure digital deletion when retention period expires.
Ownership
All records created during relationship are property of Managing Broker unless otherwise stated by law. This includes creative works, client testimonials, and marketing materials developed while affiliated with Epique Realty. Agents may request copies for personal portfolio with written permission.
Audit Compliance
Files are subject to random quality control reviews and formal audits. Agents must correct deficiencies within 72 hours of notification. Recurring documentation issues may require mandatory training and could affect commission splits until resolved to broker satisfaction.
All Independent Contractors acknowledge their responsibility to maintain accurate and complete transaction files. Failure to comply with record management requirements constitutes grounds for termination and possible reporting to regulatory authorities.
Record Management: Handling & Delivery Requirements
Next-Day Delivery
All records must be delivered to Managing Broker within one business day after creation or execution.
Personal Information Protection
Client personal data cannot be disclosed to third parties without Managing Broker's written approval.
Termination Verification
Agents must confirm Managing Broker has copies of all records upon relationship termination.
Mail Forwarding
Company forwards licensing authority correspondence to agents within ten calendar days of receipt.
These requirements ensure compliance with industry regulations and protect both the brokerage and clients. Proper record management is essential for maintaining Good Standing status.
Changelog to ICA Agreement
The Independent Contractor Agreement may change with or without notice to adapt to market changes, company dynamics, stakeholder needs, or to modify benefits and terms.
April 25, 2025
New modern design and simplified layout released.
April 17, 2025
Added Abuse of Benefits Clause.
March 12, 2025
Clarifying verbiage added to Team Split sub-sections.
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March 6, 2025
Removed annual Tech Fee payment option and updated Family Team section.
December 23, 2024
Added Changelog to track ICA, Policy, and Benefit Changes.
All changes are made by Board of Directors majority vote. No "grandfathering" of previous rules or terms should be assumed.
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