What legal or architectural requirements are Counselor Realty franchisees responsible for obtaining?

According to Counselor Realty's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are responsible for obtaining necessary utilities, permits, licenses, and other legal or architectural requirements to equip and furnish their Business and Office, including any Additional Office and Extension Office, by competent contractors in accordance with System standards. This means that before opening their Counselor Realty franchise, franchisees must ensure they have all the required permissions and infrastructure in place to operate legally and according to the brand's standards.

This obligation extends to maintaining the office in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and codes, as well as the Franchise Policy Guidelines. Franchisees must also repair or replace any defective or obsolete equipment, signage, or fixtures to maintain these standards. This ensures that the Counselor Realty brand is consistently presented across all locations and that each office operates safely and legally.

In practical terms, a prospective Counselor Realty franchisee should budget not only for the initial franchise fee and build-out costs but also for ongoing expenses related to compliance and maintenance. They should also consult with local authorities and contractors to understand the specific requirements in their area and factor those into their business plan. Failing to meet these requirements could result in fines, legal issues, or even the closure of the franchise, so it's crucial to address them proactively.