Thinking about buying a franchise?

Before you hand over a check and commit to a 10-year agreement, take a beat.

Franchise ownership can be a shortcut to business success.

Or a really expensive way to learn you hate wearing branded polos.

Let’s talk about how to know if it’s really a fit for you.

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What is a franchise, really?

In simple terms:

You’re buying the rights to use someone else’s business model, branding and systems.

You follow their playbook.

You pay them royalties.

You get support, systems and name recognition in return.

But what you don’t get? Full creative control.

This isn’t Build-A-Business. It’s business-in-a-box.

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1. What kind of freedom are you chasing?

Franchises are often sold as a path to freedom.

But not all of them deliver the same kind.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want time freedom?
• Financial freedom?
• Or just the freedom to not report to that one middle manager anymore?

Some franchises require daily involvement. Others offer semi-absentee ownership.

Make sure the model fits your life — not just your fantasy.

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2. Can you follow someone else’s rules?

The beauty of franchising is structure.

The downside of franchising… is also structure.

You’re expected to follow brand guidelines, marketing plans, operations systems — sometimes down to the paint color.

If that sounds comforting? Franchising might be your thing.

If it sounds like creative suffocation? You might be better off starting your own thing.

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3. What’s your risk tolerance?

Let’s not sugarcoat it.

• Buying a franchise still comes with startup costs, operating expenses and (yes) risk.
• There’s no guarantee of income in month one, six or even twelve.
• And some franchise agreements lock you in for up to 10 years.

If you’re someone who needs immediate ROI or panics when things go sideways — take a breath before you leap.

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4. Do you like managing people and processes?

This one’s not on the brochure — but it matters.

Franchising often means:

• Hiring and managing a team
• Handling customer service
• Problem-solving on the fly
• Rolling up your sleeves, especially in the beginning

If you want hands-off income right away, franchising may not deliver.

Ask yourself:

“Would I still do this if the brand wasn’t trendy or well-known?”

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5. Have you done your due diligence?

Do not — I repeat, do not — rely solely on the sales deck or franchise rep.

Instead:

• Talk to current franchisees (not just the handpicked success stories).
• Ask what the real workload is.
• Dig into the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
• Check if the support they promise actually shows up in practice.

For context: I co-own a travel agency franchise I bought last year.

It’s been rewarding — but it came with surprises too.

Knowing what you’re actually signing up for is half the battle.

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Final Thoughts: Is a Franchise Right for You?

A franchise can be an incredible wealth-building vehicle.

But it isn’t passive. And it isn’t foolproof.

It’s business — with training wheels.

But also with limits.

If you’re chasing freedom, not just a business card — ask better questions.

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Ready to see if a franchise fits your Nine-to-Mine strategy?

I’ve been there. I’ve bought one. I’ve got thoughts.

👉 Book a Power Hour to talk it through — no fluff, no pushy pitch.