In the Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate agreement, what does the phrase 'including' mean?

According to the 2025 Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Franchise Disclosure Document, the term 'including' is used in Section 2.5 to illustrate the types of communications Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate and its related parties may use to contact the franchisee. These communications may be about various matters, and the use of 'including' indicates that the listed examples (communications that might otherwise be prohibited by "do not call/text," "do not fax" or similar laws) are not exhaustive.

This means that Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate is not limited to only those specific types of communications. They may contact franchisees via telephone or electronic means for other purposes as well. The franchisee consents to these communications, including automated calls, ringless voicemail, or prerecorded messages, without needing to provide additional consent.

For a prospective Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate franchisee, this implies that they should expect to receive various communications from the franchisor and related parties. These communications can occur through different channels, and the franchisee's consent covers a broad range of communication types, including those that might otherwise be restricted by telemarketing laws. Franchisees should be prepared to receive and respond to these communications as part of their ongoing relationship with Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate.