The AAFD may be able to make a reliable referral. Buy a notebook for each franchise you are contacting and always take notes. Make a file permanent for each franchisor you're investigating and keep all the information you gather , in your notebook. Contact prospective franchisors to find out what their application procedure is. Request a Uniform Franchise Offering Circular for each franchise system of interest to you.
Due diligence means examining the offering circular closely.
All research you've previously done is invaluable in knowing what to look for and what questions to ask. Trade shows and franchise brokers are in business to sell franchises. Talk to lots of franchisees including those the franchisor doesn't recommend or who have recently left the system. Make sure you have enough funds to carry you until the business makes a profit.