Franchising

Yes, try Franchise Times , a franchise publication that deals with the interests of franchisees and potential franchisees. It has many good features including the 200 top-rated franchises. You can also try Be the Boss, a great site for people interested in franchise possibilities.

Yes. Small Business Development Centers can help you in many ways. It can help you organize your research effort.

Probably not. Although filing bankruptcy is not the stigma it once was, it is still viewed as a large red flag to lenders. Most will not even talk to you with a bankruptcy on your record. They usually don’t care to hear the reasons. If it is there, it is a big problem and usually a disqualifying circumstance.

Usually not. Seldom do franchise companies offer this. They are looking to you to provide this money. If you need help, they expect you to borrow it or raise it on your own.

Sometimes you can and sometimes you cannot without considerable difficulty. Read carefully the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular and the franchise agreement for the details of how you can sell.

You can sue anybody at any time you wish. All you need is money, time, facts that are on your side, a franchise agreement that supports your case, and a willingness to deal with the uncertainties of litigation.

No. Many franchise contracts do not require this. Some give you the option of either buying from the franchiser or buying from another source.

Not always. It depends on the franchise.

No. Royalties are not always required. The franchise agreement will tell you what money you will have to pay to the franchiser.

There is a division of opinion about this. Most of what you read and all franchise companies will suggest that the answer is definitely yes. Even the U.S. government, the Small Business Administration, and the U.S. Commerce Department will say yes.

No, they are not required to give you this information. Many do not and will not, even when asked.

Look in business magazines and other business publications. Check the library and Internet under "franchises."

Start by writing down what you want from a franchise and what capabilities you have in terms of money and skills. Make special note of the kinds of business activities you think you would enjoy doing.

Begin with the information provided by the franchiser. Get everything they will give you. Study it. Question it. Compare it.