Franchise Opportunities - There are many, many ways to find franchise opportunities. Some franchisors have websites with information about their franchises. Franchise expositions are a good source of information, as are franchise brokers companies or people that specialize in matching individuals with franchise companies.

Business Background - This section identifies the executives of the franchise system and describes their experience. Pay attention to their general business backgrounds, their experience in managing a franchise system, and how long they’ve been with the company.

Litigation History - This section discusses prior litigation whether the franchisor or any of its executive officers have been convicted of felonies involving fraud, violations of franchise law, or unfair or deceptive practices law, or are subject to any state or federal injunctions involving similar misconduct. It also says whether the franchisor or any of its executives have been held liable for or settled civil actions involving the franchise relationship. A number of claims against the franchisor may indicate that it has not performed according to its agreements, or, at the very least, that franchisees have been dissatisfied with its performance.

Signing the Franchise Agreement - Before You Sign the Franchise Agreement - The company’s disclosures may change between the time you receive the disclosure document and the time you sign the franchise agreement. For example, the company may have updated its disclosures; it is required to do that at least annually after its fiscal year ends.