Buying a franchise is a much lesser risk than starting your own business. Buying a franchise is for people who want to start their own business, but don't want the risk of starting out in the cold. A franchise business opportunity provides both a support system and the opportunity to have a small business franchise. The odds of success are actually higher with a small business franchise versus an independent small business.
However, there is a downside. Though you're sacrificing instability for security, you're also dealing with franchising fees, royalties, and other costs that may drive up your expenses. Consider franchise consulting to see if franchising is the right strategy for you. Or check out a top franchise opportunity, so you can see how the systems work.
Even though it's your own business, you're not completely your own boss. You're sacrificing complete ownership of your franchise because someone above you is making sure that your franchise is in line and consistent with other franchises.
You may want to see how much involvement the entire franchise has with a singular franchise. Do they help out with advertisement, bookkeeping, etc? Or do they let you act more independent?
Some franchises offer a lot of support others do not. Some franchises take more royalties than other. See where the perfect balance lies for you.
When buying a franchise check all factors to see if they line up with your goals. Buying a franchise may not be as scary as starting your own business, but there still lies risk. 
