You want to pay close attention to the history of the company, the backgrounds of the officers, the financial statements and the litigation history. The following are the steps you should take upon returning home. In the UFOC you want to see strong financial statements, highly experienced people in the key positions, a company that has been in business for 3 years or more, the longer the better, has a large number of units and has few closed or bought back. Closely examine the franchise agreement. This is the contract between you and the company.
Franchise agreements are always biased in favor of the franchisor, that's just the way it is.
This can be good and bad. For example, McDonalds is so successful because it is very tough on franchisees who do not maintain McDonalds high standards of product quality, good service and cleanliness. This strict compliance is only possible through a strong franchise agreement. Call as many franchisees as possible. Call at least 10.