Franchise Buyers Desk

what does a franchise broker do

A franchise broker introduces buyers to franchise brands and coordinates franchisor meetings. Brokers and consultants are often the same role under different labels. Most are paid by the franchisor when the buyer signs, not by the buyer. They do not replace an attorney or accountant. Confirm referral payments in FDD Items 5 and 7.

Last updated: August 25, 2026

What a broker does and does not do

TaskTypical broker roleWho else
Match a buyer profile to represented brandsYesYou can also contact brands direct
Schedule franchisor development callsYesYou can book those calls yourself
Issue the FDDNo — the franchisor issues itFranchisor, under 16 CFR Part 436
Legal review of the franchise agreementNoYour attorney
Independent financial modelNoYour accountant, using Item 7 / Item 19 / Item 21

Related: franchise consultant vs franchise broker, how franchise consultants help buyers.

Rule: 16 CFR Part 436.

SOURCE-PRINT

Counts and rule cites on this page are substrings that printed on the cited FTC URL on 25 Aug 2026. This site ships no consultant dollar and no commission percentage.

ClaimURLPrinted substring
FDD at least 14 days before sign or payftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/consumers-guide-buying-franchiseat least 14 days before you are asked to sign
FTC Franchise Rule is 16 CFR Part 436ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/rules/franchise-rule16 CFR Part 436

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a franchise broker do?

A franchise broker introduces buyers to franchise brands and coordinates franchisor meetings. Most are paid by the franchisor when the buyer signs.

Is a franchise broker different from a franchise consultant?

Buyers hear both labels for the same introduction role. See franchise consultant vs franchise broker. This page invents no license split.

Does a broker review the franchise agreement for the buyer?

No. Hire your own attorney. The broker is typically paid by the franchisor on close.

Does a broker replace the FDD?

No. The franchisor must give you the FDD at least 14 days before you sign or pay.