A good track record counts. Find out how many franchises the franchisor has in actual operation information that's readily available in the offering circular. Next, carefully evaluate whether the specific franchise operation you're thinking about makes economic sense. Don't forget to count all those franchise fees. The franchisor may give you actual or hypothetical projections of how much money a typical franchisee can earn.
Chances are they're full of hype.
Ask for financial details about individual franchise operations that are geographically and demographically similar to the one that you're considering. Most important, speak to a number of other franchisees. The names and addresses of those in your state will be listed in the offering circular. The more you know about the franchisor, the better. Visit the home office, even if it's in another city or state.