Are all fees paid to Counselor Realty refundable?

According to Counselor Realty's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, most fees paid directly to Counselor Realty are non-refundable. The FDD states that "all fees paid to Counselor are non-refundable," with some exceptions. However, fees paid to third parties, such as vendors or suppliers, may be refundable, but this is at the discretion of the third party, not Counselor Realty.

This means that a prospective Counselor Realty franchisee should carefully consider all payments made directly to Counselor Realty, as these are generally non-refundable. This includes the initial franchise fee, which ranges from $7,500 to $15,000, and any training costs paid directly to Counselor Realty, which can range from $0 to $6,200. These fees are typically paid upfront or as incurred, so understanding the non-refundable nature of these payments is crucial before signing the Franchise Agreement.

It is important for potential franchisees to clarify with Counselor Realty which specific fees are potentially refundable and under what circumstances. While the FDD mentions that fees paid to third parties may be refundable, it's essential to get clarity on which third-party fees are involved and what conditions apply to their refundability. This due diligence can help a franchisee better understand their financial obligations and potential risks associated with the franchise investment.