Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is FCRA, exactly?
Independent, fixed-fee diligence that verifies the inputs and, when warranted, pressure-tests downside before you commit more capital. No commissions, no referral fees.
2) Who is this for?
Service-based franchise buyers with meaningful capital at risk—especially if you’re in active diligence or within ~30–90 days of signing a franchise agreement, lease, funding build-out, or finalizing financing.
3) Who is this not for?
People casually browsing opportunities, looking for “the best franchise,” or wanting coaching/cheerleading. Also not for buyers who need someone to negotiate their lease or run day-to-day operations.
4) What happens on the Strategy Call?
It’s a 30-minute conversation to clarify the decision you’re evaluating and the capital at risk. We’ll identify what the deal must prove, what information you already have vs. what’s missing, and whether a Due Diligence Review or a Financial Risk Review would materially improve decision clarity. No pitch—if it’s not a fit, I’ll tell you.
5) What do I receive if we engage?
It depends on scope:
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Due Diligence Review: a structured franchisor question set, a franchisee validation plan (top/average/lower-performing), and a clear list of information gaps and the questions needed to close them.
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Financial Risk Review: a base-case and downside model, key assumptions that matter most, and a clear recommendation: Proceed / Proceed with Changes / Do Not Proceed.
6) How long does the engagement take?
Due Diligence Reviews are often faster, typically 3-5 business days. Financial Risk Reviews can take 5–10 business days once key materials are received.
7) What materials do you need from me?
Bring what you have—we’ll identify what’s missing and what actually matters.
As available, I’ll request:
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FDD (including Item 19, if provided)
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Your projections / pro forma (or the franchisor’s)
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Lease terms or LOI (if available)
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Startup cost estimates, build-out quotes, or vendor bids (if available)
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Any validation notes or franchisee conversations you’ve already had
8) Do you talk to the franchisor, broker, or franchisees?
Yes, if helpful and if you want. You can join those calls or you can authorize me to do targeted diligence calls.
9) How is this different from what a lender does?
Lenders focus on loan repayment and minimum coverage; FCRA focuses on investment quality, survivability during ramp, and downside exposure.
10) Do you work with my attorney/CPA?
Yes—this complements legal review and tax structuring. You can share findings with them.
11) I'm already working with a franchise consultant–why do I need this?
Franchise consultants are compensated by the franchisor when you move forward — that's simply how the model works. FCRA has no financial interest in your decision either way.
Your consultant helps you find the right franchise. We help you determine whether the capital risk is one you should take. Most buyers find the two complementary.
12) Do you earn anything if I buy the franchise?
No. No commissions, no referral fees, no compensation tied to your decision.