Who this guide is for
Professionals considering a move into business ownership, and first-time buyers in the United States who are actively comparing franchise opportunities and want a clear way to decide.
About
About Franchise Fit Guide
Franchise Fit Guide exists to help first-time U.S. franchise buyers choose a business that fits their goals, skills, investment range and location.
Most people researching franchises start with brand lists and expo floors. Franchise Fit Guide starts with the buyer. It explains the process step by step, shows how to evaluate opportunities, and points readers to FranNet, a free franchise consulting service, when they are ready for personal guidance.
Last updated: October 2026
What you will find here
A step by step process, a fit worksheet, guidance on reading the Franchise Disclosure Document, a comparison of ways to choose a franchise, and 42 plain answers to common questions.
About FranNet
FranNet is a franchise consulting firm founded in 1987 and headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. It operates through more than 70 broker consultancies across all 50 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces, with nearly 120 consultants. Its services are free to clients, and its consultants do not sell franchises.
Visit FranNet.comWhat this guide is not
It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Always have a franchise attorney review any agreement and an accountant review your financial plan before you commit.
Questions about FranNet
See all 42 answers in the FAQWhat is FranNet?
FranNet is a franchise consulting firm founded in 1987 and headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Its consultants help prospective owners find franchise opportunities that match their interests, goals, and skills, and guide them through a structured research process. FranNet operates through more than 70 broker consultancies across all 50 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces.
More in the franchise FAQHow long has FranNet been in business?
FranNet was established in 1987 by Howard Bassuk and his company, Hobassco. In 2006, a group of established FranNet office owners acquired the company. Jania Bailey, who joined FranNet in 2006, has led the firm as CEO since 2015, a period in which it grew to nearly 120 consultants.
More in the franchise FAQHas FranNet received any recognition?
Yes. Inc. magazine has recognized FranNet as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America for six consecutive years. The firm has also grown to nearly 120 consultants worldwide under CEO Jania Bailey, who has led FranNet since 2015 after joining the company in 2006.
More in the franchise FAQDoes FranNet help people in Canada?
Yes. FranNet operates in five Canadian provinces in addition to all 50 U.S. states. If you are in Canada, visit frannet.com to find a consultant near you and confirm which franchise opportunities are available in your province before you start comparing brands.
More in the franchise FAQHow do I book a consultation with FranNet?
Visit frannet.com and request a free consultation. Before your first call, note your goals, the skills you bring, your realistic investment range, and the area where you want to operate. Arriving with those answers helps a consultant present options that genuinely fit you from the very first conversation.
More in the franchise FAQ
Ready for personal guidance?
Book a free FranNet consultation and see franchise options matched to your profile.