Your Investment

• How much money do you have to invest?
• How much money can you afford to lose?
• Are you purchasing the franchise alone or with partners?
• Do you need financing? Where will you get it? What’s your credit rating and credit score?
• Do you have savings or additional income to live on until your franchise opens and, you hope, becomes profitable?

Your Abilities

• Does the franchise require technical experience or special training or education — for example, auto repair, home and office decorating or tax preparation?
• What special skills can you bring to this business?
• What experience do you have as a business owner or manager?

Your Goals

• What are your reasons for buying a particular franchise?
• Do you need a specific minimum annual income?
• Do you want to work in a particular field?
• Are you interested in retail sales or performing a service?
• How many hours can you work? How many are you willing to work?
• Do you intend to operate the business yourself or hire a manager?
• Will franchise ownership be your main source of income or a supplement to your current income?
• Are you in this for the long term?
• Would you like to own several outlets?
• Are you willing to let the franchisor be your boss?