I think the most important thing you can ask for from a franchisor is references. But I would not stop there if you look in the UFOC you can see lists of other franchisees or you can search online and find additonal one. It is best to open your conversation with franchisees that you find on your own with something like "You were not one of the names that the franchisor provides but I wanted to have a confidential conversation with some other franchisees..." You are bound to get more information if you frame the question this way. You will get better information to help make your decision from a franchisee than a franchisor.