Our Process: Your Path to Franchise Ownership

1-icon

Discovery & Research

We start with a detailed consultation to understand your goals, budget, and preferences. Then, we conduct thorough research to find franchise opportunities that are a perfect match for you.

1-icon

Securing Funding

Securing a traditional loan for a franchise can be tough. We’ll connect you with the right resources, including SBA loans and other funding options, to help you find the capital you need.

1-icon

Selecting the Right Brands

We have access to extensive data and go beyond marketing materials to assess franchisors based on their track record and real performance. We’ll match you with a franchise that fits your skills, interests, and goals, and is a strong business for your area.

1-icon

Evaluating Opportunities

Our proven process helps you make a safe and informed decision. We’ll guide you through the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), show you what information is missing, and help you ask the right questions of both the franchisor and existing franchisees. Together, we’ll determine the best fit for you.

1-icon

Making Your Decision

We prepare you for the final “Meet the Team” day with the franchisor and can provide introductions to trusted accountants and franchise attorneys to ensure your interests are protected.

1-icon

Launching Your Business

Our support doesn’t end when the paperwork is signed. We have resources to help you successfully launch your new business.

We often hear from clients that we saved them significant time and money and helped them discover businesses they never would have found on their own. Our goal is to make your transition to business ownership as smooth as possible.

Find a franchise that is best for you with our assessment

Match your skills and talents with the right businesses with our 5-10 minute online assessment

Funding Your Future Business

Ready to start your franchise journey? Let’s explore your financing options.

401(k) Rollovers

How it works

Roll over funds from your 401(k) or other retirement accounts into your business.

Benefits

Tax-free withdrawals, immediate access to funds, potential for accelerated growth.

Requirements

Typically no early withdrawal penalties or taxes.

Timeframe

Can be completed in a few weeks.

Unsecured Loans

How it works

Loans based on your creditworthiness, without requiring collateral.

Benefits

Tax-free withdrawals, immediate access to funds, potential for accelerated growth.

Requirements

Good credit score (usually 700+), low credit utilization.

Timeframe

Can be secured in as little as two weeks.

SBA Loans

How it works

The Small Business Administration guarantees a portion of the loan, reducing risk for lenders.

Benefits

Government-backed financing, potentially lower interest rates.

Requirements

Eligibility based on business factors and borrower qualifications.

Timeframe

Typically 60-90 days.

Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs)

How it works

Loans secured by your home’s equity.

Benefits

Potentially lower interest rates than other loans.

Requirements

Homeownership, sufficient equity.

Timeframe

Can be established in 30-60 days.

Request a Free Consultation Call with IFS

Featured Franchises

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about franchise brokerage? Our FAQ section has the answers you need, from understanding the process to finding your perfect franchise opportunity.

Why use a franchise broker and not go directly to the franchisor?

We use our industry experience to give you the information you need when considering a franchise. We'll help you find out which franchises are reliable, what their owners say about them, and which are available in your area. Most importantly, we'll help you find a franchise that's a perfect fit for you. With our services, you'll save time, money, and stress during this important decision-making process.

How much does it cost to use the services of a franchise broker?

Our services are free for you, the client. You pay the exact same price for a franchise as you would by going directly to the franchisor. We are compensated by the franchisor, who sees our work as a valuable part of their marketing efforts. Because of our proven process and the high quality of candidates we refer, we're able to create a win-win for everyone involved.

Can I keep my full-time job and start a franchise?

Yes, it is definitely possible. Many of our clients start a franchise while still working full-time. These are typically "semi-absentee" ownership models, where you manage the business from a high level, while a trusted manager handles the day-to-day operations. This allows you to build a new revenue stream and a valuable asset without giving up the security of your current job.

What are the benefits of buying a franchise?

Franchising lets you be your own boss without being on your own. You get the full support, experience, and knowledge of the franchisor, who has already navigated the challenges of the business. By joining a franchise, you're leveraging a proven system and getting the tools you need to succeed. This includes comprehensive training, ongoing marketing support, and a reduced risk, thanks to a business model that has already been perfected.

Is financial assistance available?

Yes, we can, and we'll introduce you to the right funding sources. We know that financing is a major concern, so we make it a priority to discuss your funding options early in the process to address any potential issues.

How long will it take to get my business started?

The timeline depends on you. If you're motivated and responsive, we can typically help you find a great franchise match in just one to three months.

Do I need specific industry experience to buy a franchise?

No, in fact, most franchisors prefer that you have no prior industry experience. They want you to learn and follow their proven systems. Instead of specific industry knowledge, franchisors look for candidates who are coachable and have transferable skills like motivating a team, closing sales, and managing operations.

How will a franchise broker find the best franchise for me?

We want to help you find the best franchise concept that meets your unique criteria. To do this, we need to understand what's most important to you. Our process starts with a series of questions designed to help us narrow the search and find your ideal match.
We'll ask questions about your goals, work habits, and skills to create a personal profile. This allows us to quickly identify which franchise opportunities are the best fit for you. Some examples of what we'll ask include:

  • What's your motivation for owning a business?
  • Do you prefer a hands-on role or a leadership position?
  • How do you feel about managing people?
  • What is your available investment capital?
  • What is your desired timeline for opening?

By getting to know you, we can cut through the thousands of available options and present you with a short list of hand-picked opportunities. This saves you significant time and effort, so you can focus on making a confident decision.