Don't buy a franchise just because it is a familiar "name".
The name means very little, if your personality and skill sets do not match.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Use proven research methods
When you start your search, start with you..
Do not start off this process by looking at franchise advertisements.
They really don't mean a thing until you decide what past skills and experiences you would like to use with your new venture, and what you would like your day to day work to look and feel like.
I recommend: Go here for 10 tips to really get you thinking...
NewsChannel 5 Hometown ExpertsGo here for state by state franchise information...
Statefranchisecenters.com
Use FREE Goverment websites
Use our Governments vast amount of online resources to learn all you can about franchising, and small business.
I recommend: Federal Trade Commission/Franchise LawsCNN/MoneyThe Small Business Administration
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Only use professionals who know small business and franchising, when it comes to decision time.A franchise consultant-Broker with a Franchise Industry background may be of some help, as will a sharp CPA, and an attorney that is very familiar with franchise documents and agreements.
This is a huge decision..Now is not the time to use your "attorney Uncle"
for advice.