Can Counselor Realty change its policy regarding website approval in the future?
Counselor_Realty Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
nt. Counselor does not currently require your website to be approved by Counselor prior to you using it, but reserves the right to review and approve your website (and to require you to alter or cease using all or any portion of such website it does not approve).
You are not required to buy or use any particular electronic computer system. Counselor is not obligated to assist you in obtaining your personal computer, related hardware or telephone service. You may be required to modify your hardware periodically if Counselor makes changes to the System.
Counselor may provide you with or require you to utilize such technology related tools (including, but not limited to, mobile applications and other internet or software-based applications) and services relating to the franchised business as Counselor determines from time to time in its sole discretion.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 17–21)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Counselor Realty's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Counselor Realty retains the right to change its policy regarding website approval. While Counselor Realty does not currently require franchisees to have their websites approved before use, they explicitly reserve the right to review and approve franchisee websites in the future. They can also require franchisees to alter or cease using any portion of a website that Counselor Realty does not approve. This policy extends to advertising materials and media as well.
This means that a Counselor Realty franchisee must ensure their website and advertising materials always conform to Counselor Realty's brand standards and image. The franchisor has the sole discretion to determine if a website meets these standards. If Counselor Realty finds that a franchisee's website or advertising does not meet their standards, the franchisee will be directed in writing to alter or remove it.
For a prospective franchisee, this indicates a need to maintain flexibility and be prepared to make changes to their website or advertising materials based on Counselor Realty's directives. It is important to stay updated on Counselor Realty's brand standards and image guidelines to minimize potential conflicts and ensure compliance. This also highlights the importance of clear communication with Counselor Realty regarding website and advertising strategies to avoid incurring costs for materials that may later be deemed non-compliant.