Franchise Buyer’s Checklist

Thinking about buying a franchise or exploring a business for sale? This step-by-step franchise buyer’s checklist helps you go from initial research to confident decision-making. Whether you are new to franchising or looking to expand your investments, this guide will help you stay organized, ask smart questions, and avoid costly mistakes. You can fill out the checklist directly in your browser, add notes for each step, and print it out when you're ready.

Franchise Buyer's Checklist Cover
Understand what you want from owning a franchise and how it fits your lifestyle.
Calculate how much you can invest, including franchise fees, setup costs, and working capital.
Explore industries that align with your skills and interests.
Browse franchise listings on sites like Azibiz.com to find options that fit your budget and preferences.
Narrow down to 3-5 franchises based on support, reputation, and growth potential.
Read all legal and financial information; get professional help if needed.
Ask about their experiences, challenges, and satisfaction with the franchisor.
Ensure you understand the agreement and financial commitments.
Check how the franchisor assists with setup, operations, and marketing.
Get a real-world feel for the business.
Clarify royalty payments, marketing contributions, and other recurring costs.
Prepare to promote your franchise effectively in your community.
Proceed when you’re confident about the opportunity.
Engage fully in franchisor training programs to set yourself up for success.