There are a number of advantages to looking at franchises for sale, and ultimately purchasing one. Typically, such endeavours have a firm business plan in place that represents a framework for profitability.
However, like any business transaction, long-term success is not guaranteed, and it's important that would-be franchise owners carry out due diligence of the opportunity itself, as well as the supporting network around it.
How does this whole process work when buying a franchise over a standalone business?
Joint research from Griffith University and the University of New South Wales suggested that the most common type of due diligence carried out by prospective business owners is a consultation with an accountant.
While this can be an effective way to gauge the financial fitness of the opportunity in question, it isn't the be-all and end-all. The research actually found that it's easier to assess the prospects of a franchise than it is a standalone business.
The reason being is that the franchise model is well regulated, meaning that there's greater transparency if and when a new business owner asks the difficult questions.
So, what should potential franchisees be querying with the franchise owners? Well, Entrepreneur contributor Carol Tice highlighted the following:
Ultimately, buying a franchise is much like taking the plunge on any business for sale. However, with tighter regulations and more answers available to most pressing questions, carrying out due diligence before making the final decision can help you get an idea of whether the endeavour is worth pursuing.
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