Interest in buying into a franchised business is at an all-time high and like almost everything in life, prices are a consideration. The new publication compares and contrasts vital data for franchise selection such as franchise fees, royalty payments, advertising fees, investment analysis, franchise term and renewal, unit closures, training programs, and earnings claims (where available). All 50 of the franchises were previously honored as one of the selections of Entrepreneur magazine's 2007 Franchise 500.

Using all this data and other criteria that FranchiseHelp routinely uses in its franchise appraisals, the best three franchises of the 50 concepts were chosen. The three top choices are:

• COFFEE NEWS is a weekly publication with revenues from advertising placed by small businesses and read while drinking coffee at restaurants and coffee shops. Investment costs come in at $6,925.
• CRUISEONE specializes in providing both group and individual sailings with the best value and service. Cruises are currently so popular and when you see all the choices, you know you need professional assistance. CruiseOne franchise investments average out at $17,492.
• STROLLERFIT sells a service in an underserved niche market -- children 6 weeks to 3 years old. The franchise provides exercise program classes and related retail products and is currently on a fast growth track. The average investment is $9,070.