What Are the Best Franchise Advisory Services for New Franchise Buyers? (5 Traits to Look For)
Becoming a business owner is a dream for many. As you determine the ideal type of business to own, consider the benefits and requirements of pursuing a franchise as opposed to starting a new business from scratch.
Buying a franchise provides a proven and effective business model, along with a credible brand, which eliminates many of the risks associated with opening a non-franchise business of your own. But how do you decide which franchise to purchase?
A franchise purchase is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. This is where franchise advisory services come in.
These professional services, often provided by a skilled franchise business consultant or franchise advisory firm, can positively impact your decision to become an entrepreneur through franchising. If you’re a new franchise buyer, choosing the right expert support is critical.
Here are some key insights on franchise advisory services we’ll cover:

- What franchise advisory services are and why they’re essential for new franchise buyers
- How to identify the most qualified franchise business consultant for your goals
- What traits, experience, and support should the best franchise consulting services provide
- Why understanding digital marketing and franchise growth strategies matters
What to Look for in a Franchise Advisory Service
Franchising continues to grow and outpace the broader economy. In fact, according to the International Franchise Association (IFA), the number of franchise establishments in the U.S. is projected to continue to increase. This means there’s a large and growing market, but with growth comes competition and complexity. For an upcoming franchise owner, working with a franchise consultant increases your chance of navigating this landscape successfully.
Here’s what you should look for when selecting franchise advisory services:
1) Extensive Franchise Development Background
The first thing you should look for in franchise advisory services is how extensive their background in franchising is. Do they have personal experience as a franchisee, or have they directly served on a franchisor’s leadership team? How long was their tenure? What industries do they serve? A consultant with hands-on experience in franchise ownership or operations understands both sides of the business relationship.
Knowing these details can help you make an informed decision concerning your future in franchising. You should always ask for proof of their experience in the form of reviews or client testimonials.
2) An Understanding of Digital Marketing and Social Media
There is no marketing in this era without social media. For a business to expand and thrive, it must utilize social media. A considerable percentage of franchise development occurs online, which is why understanding digital marketing is so important when selecting a franchise business consultant.
A good consultant should know how digital marketing drives both franchisor growth and franchisee success. They should also have substantial knowledge and control over SEO. In choosing a franchise consultant, take note of the following:
- Can they show examples of how their advice helped franchisees thrive online?
- Are they up to date with the latest trends in franchise marketing and support?
In short, the best franchise services should not only help you choose a brand that aligns with your goals and interests, but also position you for long-term growth and success through digital channels.
3) Experience Backed by Proven Results
Having verifiable, proven results goes hand in hand with a franchise business consultant’s reputation. A trustworthy franchise consulting agency will be transparent with its customer reviews, testimonials, and
success stories of previous clients. As a new franchise buyer, you want evidence that the consultant has matched buyers with the
right franchise opportunities and that those franchisees are succeeding.
Look at metrics like:
- Number of clients placed over the last few years
- Range of industries represented
- Success rate or survival of those franchisees
- Diversity of investment levels in the opportunities recommended
These outcomes reflect the quality of the advisory service and how well it aligns with helping you succeed.
4) Multiple Franchise Options Available
As a new franchise buyer, you’ll benefit from working with a consultant who offers a wide selection of validated franchise opportunities rather than a narrow set. This gives you the flexibility to find something that fits your budget, lifestyle, and goals. When comparing franchise advisory services, ask:
- How many distinct brands or models do they represent?
- Are those models across multiple industries and investment ranges?
- How thoroughly vetted are the brands they present?
A consultant whose offerings are well-vetted and diverse gives you a better chance of finding the right fit.
5) Attention and Care for Your Needs
Entrepreneurs seek to invest their capital into profitable business ventures, aiming for sustainable returns rather than financial loss. A first-time franchisee should be mindful and diligent when selecting a franchise business consultant, recognizing the importance of this foundational partnership for future success.
You’ll know you’ve found the right consultant not only from their knowledge and experience, but also from their ability to listen to your ideas and goals. This should occur before they offer any franchises to you. The right consultant prioritizes matching you with the perfect company, not simply making a commission. When a consultant spends quality time understanding you, they demonstrate attentiveness and care. That’s a hallmark of choosing the best franchise consultant.
Hundred Acre Consulting: Your Partner for Long-Term Success
Remember, selecting a franchise advisory service should be as strategic as selecting the franchise itself. If you’re a new franchise buyer exploring your path to ownership, the right consultant can definitely make the difference between a confident investment and an expensive mistake.
Hundred Acre Consulting offers tailored, transparent, and comprehensive support for entrepreneurs, beginners, and seasoned professionals. With more than 25 years of experience, a network of over 900+ franchise opportunities across 85 industries, and a strong commitment to ethical, client-centered guidance, Hundred Acre Consulting helps franchise buyers discover the right brand, negotiate the best terms, and build a thriving business.
Let us help you find success as a franchise owner. Book a consulting call today to find out if franchising is a good fit for you.
