Does Counselor Realty own stylized logos used in the System?
Counselor_Realty Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Counselor owns a proprietary and distinctive system for a network of full service residential and commercial real estate brokerage service businesses (the "System"). The System is described in the Franchise Agreement and in Counselor's Franchise Policy Guidelines. A current Franchise Agreement is included in this Franchise Disclosure Document at Exhibit B. Counselor and its affiliates own various names, trademarks, stylized logos, slogans, and symbols (the "Marks") used in the System. See Item 13.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR, AND ANY PARENT, PREDECESSORS AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 7–8)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Counselor Realty's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Counselor Realty and its affiliates own various names, trademarks, stylized logos, slogans, and symbols, which are collectively referred to as the "Marks," used within the Counselor Realty system. This means that as a franchisee, you are granted the right to use these Marks, including the stylized logos, in the operation of your Counselor Realty business, as outlined in the Franchise Agreement.
However, Counselor Realty retains the right to make changes to the System and the Marks, which may require franchisees to adapt their business operations and potentially make additional investments. Franchisees must adhere to Counselor Realty's brand standards and image when using these trademarks, including on any websites or advertising materials they develop. Counselor Realty reserves the right to review and approve all advertising and marketing materials to ensure compliance with their standards.
The Franchise Agreement and Franchise Policy Guidelines dictate the specific manner in which franchisees are allowed to use Counselor Realty's Marks. Franchisees cannot use any of the Marks as part of a corporate, partnership, or trade name without explicit consent from Counselor Realty. Counselor Realty also maintains sole discretion in determining the appropriate course of action in cases of unauthorized use or infringement of its Marks, including having complete control over any related litigation or settlements. While franchisees are permitted to use the licensed Marks, Counselor Realty is not obligated to actively protect the franchisee's use of these Marks or defend against claims of infringement or unfair competition.