Are the Counselor Realty training fees refundable?

According to Counselor Realty's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, training fees are generally not refundable. The document states that franchisees must pay a fee for training, including initial training, at a rate of $175 per trainer per hour. Additionally, franchisees are responsible for covering all travel, living, and incidental expenses for themselves, their employees, and Counselor Realty's trainers, which could range from $0 to $750 per person per day, depending on travel requirements and third-party vendor costs.

The FDD specifies that these training fees are nonrefundable. This means that once a franchisee pays for the training, they cannot get a refund, regardless of whether they complete the training or decide not to proceed with the franchise. This is a standard practice in franchising, as the franchisor incurs costs in providing the training, such as trainer salaries, materials, and facility expenses.

Prospective Counselor Realty franchisees should carefully consider the costs associated with training, including the hourly rate for trainers and the potential travel and living expenses. They should also inquire about the specific training programs offered, the duration of the training, and the number of trainers required to get a clear understanding of the total training costs. Since the fees are nonrefundable, it's crucial to assess the value and necessity of the training before committing to the franchise.