Franchise expert Joe Matthews helps entrepreneurs decide whether or not to buy a franchise by revealing the personality types most likely to succeed at franchising, and he identifies entrepreneurial traits that may increase risk of failure. Going beyond the "how to" guide, Matthews takes an in-depth look at the research and investigation of a franchise and franchisor, something glossed over in most franchise books. In its third revision, this guide contains advice, in-the-trenches stories, and tips from experienced franchisees on what actually works when starting a franchise. Includes revised and expanded information on researching and evaluating a franchise before buying with a six-step investigation process; how to identify a skilled franchisor dedicated to growing the brand and business; and how to spot a winning franchise and avoid the stagnant brands and category losers. There is also a timely discussion of issues that affect the franchising industry: Affordable Care Act, NLRB, minimum wage requirements, and more. It also provides checklists and questionnaires for evaluating a person's suitability for running a franchise, assessing if a particular franchise system is set up for success, and for gathering information for franchise disclosure documents and agreements.