Before investing in a particular franchise system, carefully consider how much money you have to invest, your abilities, and your goals. The following checklist may help you make your decision.

Your Investment
* How much money do you have to invest?
* How much money can you afford to lose?
* Will you purchase the franchise by yourself or with partners?
* Will you need financing and, if so, where can you obtain it?
* Do you have a favorable credit rating?
* Do you have savings or additional income to live on while starting your franchise?

Your Abilities
* Does the franchise require technical experience or relevant education, such as auto repair, home and office decorating, or tax preparation?
* What skills do you have? Do you have computer, bookkeeping, or other technical skills?
* What specialized knowledge or talents can you bring to a business?
* Have you ever owned or managed a business?

Your Goals
* What are your goals?
* Do you require a specific level of annual income?
* Are you interested in pursuing a particular field?
* Are you interested in retail sales or performing a service?
* How many hours are you willing to work?
* Do you want to operate the business yourself or hire a manager?
* Will franchise ownership be your primary source of income or will it supplement your current income?
* Would you be happy operating the business for the next 20 years?
* Would you like to own several outlets or only one?

Put it this way, the thing with the franchises is like gambling.