If you're working in real estate, maybe you're an agent, a developer, or even just starting something on the side and you're wondering what trademark class to use, here's the deal: it's Class 36. Straight up. That’s the class that covers real estate services. You use it when you want to protect your brand name, logo, or slogan in the trademark class for real estate.
But wait. That’s not the full story. Because if you’re also building stuff, managing projects, or doing the heavy lifting in construction? Then you might be in a whole different class entirely. Let’s dig in.
Why Trademark Classes Exist And Why You Should Care?
A trademark doesn’t protect your name everywhere, it only protects it in the category you register it under. Think of it like sections in a supermarket. If someone trademarks “Sunny Homes” for real estate services, someone else could still register the same name for a bakery. Different aisles. Different services. So when we say trademark class for real estate, we’re really talking about which aisle your business falls under.
Read Also: How To Start A Real Estate Business With No Money
Class 36: For the Real Estate Folks
If you’re doing anything like:
- Selling or renting properties
- Acting as a real estate agent or broker
- Managing rental properties
- Offering mortgages or investment services
Then yeah, Class 36 is where you belong. This is also where a lot of people looking into trademark class for real estate start and stop. But not so fast.
Builders, Developers: You’re Probably Class 37
So let’s say you’re not just selling homes. You’re building them. Or maybe you’re part of a development company turning empty plots into entire neighborhoods.
That’s Class 37, not 36.
That’s the trademark class for builders and developers. It covers:
- Residential construction
- Commercial building
- Renovation services
- Property development
Basically, if you or your business is holding a hammer or managing the crew who does, you’re likely in Class 37.
Residential Construction: Still Class 37, But Word It Right
If your company specializes in building homes, single family units, duplexes, townhouses, that’s still under Class 37. But here’s the key: make sure the words “residential construction” are part of your application.
Don’t just say “construction.” Be specific. Otherwise, someone else might register a similar name for commercial or industrial projects and say you’ve got no claim. This is where residential construction trademark wording matters. That tiny detail can save your brand later.
What About Civil Contractors and Big Infrastructure Guys?
If you’re doing roads, bridges, drainage systems, or government projects, that’s still Class 37. But again, don’t be vague. In your description, use terms like:
- Civil engineering
- Public infrastructure construction
- Large-scale development
This is your best bet for securing your trademark class for civil contractors and developers correctly.
Construction Project Management, It’s a Bit Trickier
If you're running the show but not laying the bricks, think timelines, budgets, contractor coordination, you're doing construction project management. That can fall under Class 37, but sometimes it leans into business consulting (Class 35) or even tech services (Class 42) if there’s software involved.
What class you choose depends on how you deliver the service. Are you offering it as a hands-on job site manager? Or more of a digital coordinator with a custom SaaS platform? The tools you use and the way you present the service make the difference.
Can You Register in More Than One Class?
Yep. And often, you should. It’s also worth thinking ahead a little. Right now, maybe you're just managing rentals or building on a small scale. But what about a year from now? Maybe you’ll launch a branded app for tenants. Or maybe you’ll start offering renovation services alongside property development. That’s when multi-class trademarks become even more trademark class for real estate.
You don't want to be in a spot where you've built recognition for your name, only to find out someone else beat you to the trademark in a new area you're expanding into. And yes, rebranding is expensive. You will need to update websites, legal papers, domain names, signage, and everything else—not only company cards and logos.
Thus, although many class filings are initially more expensive, they usually save you time and money in the long run. Speak with a brand consultant if you're unsure which courses you'll need later. Knowing your direction helps you plan; you do not need to submit everything right now.
Let’s say your company builds homes (Class 37), sells them (Class 36), and uses custom software to manage construction teams (Class 42). You can file your trademark under all three classes. That way, you’re covered from every angle. It costs more upfront, but it’s smarter long term. Especially if you plan to grow your business across different services.
Read: Top Investment Hotspots in Gujarat Real Estate for 2025
Real Talk: What Most People Get Wrong
Mistake #1: Picking the Wrong Class
Some people assume “real estate” always means Class 36. Not true. If you build or renovate, Class 37 is probably your primary.
Mistake #2: Vague Descriptions
Just writing “construction” or “property work” isn’t enough. Say what kind. Residential? Commercial? Industrial? Make it obvious.
Mistake #3: Only Thinking About Now
If you’re planning to expand, register your mark in all the classes you might need. Filing later means you could be overtaken by someone else.
Rapid Overview
- Trademark class for real estate: Class 36. Think sales, rentals, leasing, property management.
- Trademark class for builders and developers: Class 37. Covers all kinds of construction.
- Residential construction trademark: Still Class 37, but add “residential” in your wording.
- Trademark class for construction companies: Also Class 37.
- Civil contractors and large-scale developers? You guessed it: Class 37.
- Construction project management might blur into Class 35 or 42 depending on how you offer it.
Final Thought: File It Right or Regret It Later
Getting the trademark class wrong doesn’t just delay your application—it can leave you wide open. Someone else could use a close name, and you would have no means of stopping them. That's the worst possible outcome.
If you’re unsure, get advice. There are trademark lawyers and filing services who’ll check your classes and wording before you submit.
But at the very least, now you know where to start. Class 36 for real estate services. Class 37 for builders and developers. Add others if your business stretches across categories.
Protecting your brand isn’t just about looking professional, it’s about making sure no one else can hijack the work you’ve built. File smart, and you’re covered.