I've heard it may be easier to obtain financing for a franchise than an independent business. A franchisor can ease these concerns by providing upfront and ongoing training, assuring the banker that someone with a vested interest will properly prepare the borrower.
Bankers also look at successful franchise chains as proven entities with solid repayment abilities.
Another plus for the lender is the value of the franchise's assets, which are typically greater than the assets of a traditional business, mainly due to franchise name recognition. It's also easier to liquidate a well-recognized national franchise than, say, a Doug's Pig and Pit, because the franchisor sometimes offers a repurchase or remarketing agreement in the event of default. In reality, buying a franchise, regardless of the financing advantages, isn't for everyone. If you don't follow instructions well, which I don't, and you work best without any supervision, which I do, a franchise may not be for you. As intoxicating as loan approval may sound, don't forget that you do end up paying, usually in the form of an upfront fee as well as a percentage of your profits.