Acquire the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). The format of the FDD is specified by the FTC and NASAA (Federal and State Regulators) and provides information about the franchisor, the obligations of the franchisor and the franchisee, fees, start-up costs, and other required information about the franchise system. It includes a listing of current and former franchisees. In addition to the disclosure portion of the FDD, the document will contain the franchise and other agreements and exhibits. It does not typically include unit earnings information. Item 19, "Earnings Claims" is an optional disclosure under the FTC Rule and State FDDs even though the performance of the franchise in terms of unit "earnings" are material facts that should be disclosed to new buyers by the seller of the franchise, who profits from the sale.Be certain that you like the business. It is also advisable to talk candidly to existing franchisees. If you reach someone who seems negative, attempt to determine if the comments appear legitimate. Don't assume the business model is the problem solely because you speak with a negative person. It is a good idea to talk to a good sample of franchisees.