Guides
Franchise Research Guides
Learn how to evaluate franchise opportunities using FDD data, SBA loan records, and owner validation.
FDD basics
What is an FDD?
The Franchise Disclosure Document is a 23-item legal filing every franchisor must provide. Learn which items matter most and how to read them.
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SBA data
Understanding SBA Default Rates
SBA 7(a) loan data reveals which franchises succeed and which fail. Learn how default rates are calculated and what the numbers mean.
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Validation
How to Validate a Franchise
Calling existing franchisees is the single most important step in franchise due diligence. Here is exactly how to do it.
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Investment
Understanding Franchise Investment Costs
Item 7 of the FDD breaks down every dollar you will spend to open. Learn how to read investment ranges and spot hidden costs.
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Cost guide
How Much Does a Franchise Cost?
A complete breakdown of franchise investment: franchise fee, build-out, equipment, working capital, and ongoing royalties across every category.
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Budget guide
Best Franchises Under $100K
A data-driven look at franchise opportunities in the most popular investment range, with filtering tools to find brands that match your budget.
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Revenue guide
Most Profitable Franchises
How to read franchise revenue data from Item 19, why gross sales is not profit, and how to estimate actual returns using SBA and FDD data.
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Comparison
Franchise vs Starting a Business
An honest comparison of buying a franchise versus starting an independent business, covering costs, control, failure rates, and when each path makes sense.
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Due diligence
Questions to Ask Before Buying
50 due diligence questions organized by stage: financial, territory, operations, franchisee validation, and exit terms.
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Reference
Franchise Glossary
Key terms every franchise investor should know, from FDD and Item 19 to SBA default rates, royalty fees, and territory protection.
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