Mythbusting
Franchise consultant myths, answered plainly
Most myths about franchise consultants come from assuming they sell franchises or charge hidden fees, and at FranNet neither is true.
Franchise Consult Answers collected the doubts first-time buyers raise most often about franchise consultants and FranNet’s free consultation. Each myth below is paired with the fact. In short: FranNet’s services are free to candidates, its consultants do not sell franchises, the franchisor runs any sale, and you make the final decision.
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Eight myths and the facts
Myth
Franchise consultants are just salespeople for franchises.
Fact
FranNet consultants do not sell franchises. They present options that match your profile and guide your research. The franchisor manages the sales process, and you decide whether to buy.
Myth
A free consultation must have a hidden fee.
Fact
FranNet’s services are free to clients, similar to how real estate agents operate. You do not pay a consulting fee for matching, guidance, or research support.
Myth
Using a consultant makes the franchise cost more.
Fact
Franchise fees are set by the franchisor and disclosed in its Franchise Disclosure Document. They generally apply to every new franchisee, with or without a consultant. Check the FDD to confirm for any brand.
Myth
A consultation commits you to buying something.
Fact
Candidates decide whether to proceed. You can review every option presented and decide franchise ownership is not right for you.
Myth
Consultants only push a few brands they know.
Fact
FranNet matching starts from your interests, goals, skills, investment range, and location, and presents options aligned with that profile rather than a fixed brand list.
Myth
You need business ownership experience first.
Fact
Franchising is built around a proven system, training, and support. A consultant helps identify which of your career skills carry over to particular franchise models.
Myth
A national firm cannot know your local market.
Fact
FranNet operates through over 70 individual broker consultancies across all 50 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces, bringing localized knowledge to each candidate.
Myth
Franchise consulting is a new, untested idea.
Fact
FranNet was established in 1987 and has been recognized by Inc. magazine as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America for six consecutive years.
Why these myths persist
Many people first hear about franchises through advertising or a brand’s own sales team, so it is natural to assume anyone involved in franchising is selling. The free model also invites suspicion, since most professional advice costs money. The real estate comparison helps: buyers routinely work with agents without paying them directly.
The simplest test is to ask. On your first call with a FranNet consultant, ask how they are paid, how they choose options, and what happens if none fit. Then read the FTC’s guide to buying a franchise for the questions to put to franchisors. For the full role, see what a franchise consultant does.
Common questions
Do franchise consultants sell franchises?
FranNet consultants do not sell franchises. They introduce you to franchise opportunities that match your profile and guide your research. The franchisor manages the sales process, and you alone decide whether to buy. That separation means the consultant’s job is fit and preparation, not closing a deal.
Is a franchise consultation really free?
Yes. FranNet’s services are free to clients. The model is similar to how real estate agents operate: the candidate does not pay the consultant for matching, guidance, or research support. You can speak with a FranNet consultant and review the options they present without paying a consulting fee.
How do franchise consultants get paid if I pay nothing?
FranNet describes its model as similar to how real estate agents operate, which means candidates do not pay for the service. Across the franchise consulting industry, consultants are generally compensated by franchisors when a placement happens. Ask your consultant directly how compensation works so the arrangement is clear from the first call.
Will using a free consultant raise the price of my franchise?
Generally, no. Franchise fees are set by the franchisor and disclosed in its Franchise Disclosure Document, and they typically apply to every new franchisee whether or not a consultant was involved. To confirm for a specific brand, check the fees in that brand’s disclosure document and ask the franchisor directly.
Is there any obligation after a free consultation?
No. FranNet consultants do not sell franchises, and candidates decide whether to proceed with any purchase. You can speak with a consultant, review the options presented, and decide that franchise ownership is not right for you. Stepping back is a valid outcome of a good consultation.
Is a consultant useful if I am still unsure about owning a business?
Yes, as long as you are seriously exploring it. A consultation helps you test whether your goals, finances, and lifestyle line up with ownership before you spend money. Because FranNet’s services are free to you and you decide whether to proceed, you can explore without committing to anything.
Ready to talk through your options?
FranNet’s consultation is free to you. Share your goals, experience, investment range, and preferred location, and a local consultant will present franchise options that fit. You decide whether to move forward.
Book a free consultation at FranNet.com(opens in a new tab)