Finance

Without listing them specifically here I have a couple favored lending institutions I recommend when it comes to SBA loans, unsecured loans, and/or ROBS providers. Many people are familiar with this method of financing but you can use a former 401K or retirement plan to fund the working capital of the franchise you select and best of all it's tax penalty free. Other methods to consider paying the franchise fee and working capital may include a margin loan against a brokerage account or a HELOC. I'm happy to discuss the best funding strategy with you, and typically best to sort that out early on in the diligence process

Legal

It is unequivocally best to use an experienced franchise attorney to interpret what's in the FDD and ahead of signing your franchise agreement. Fees can range, but I have a short list of attorneys I can suggest to you when the time is right. I would highly advise against using an attorney with another practice focus just because they are a relative or a friend, because you don't want to end up in a redline war in an agreement that has little to no changes of being changed. So you're hiring this attorney to interpret and explain your rights as a franchisee.

Operational/Coaching

There are many good advisors out there that can help you through critical decision making/planning/and life decisions as it impacts you getting your business up and running. Sometimes a franchisor provides you with this as you begin your journey of ownership. But nonetheless you may find it helpful to have an external independent resource for guidance.. I have a short list of people I can suggest for this.

Vendors

This is constantly evolving with new technology and resources. But as it pertains to payroll, software, analytics tools, etc I'm happy to provide suggestions where needed.