Big-name high-dollar operations like McDonald’s and Subway may be what first comes to mind when you hear the word “franchise,” but it’s the lower-cost franchise opportunities that entrepreneurs covet the most these days, according to a new report released by independent market research firm Franchise Business Review. Franchises that offer a relatively low barrier to entry―$100,000 or less―are in higher demand for the reason that they are a less risky proposition than the more high-investment opportunities and, as a result, have not been as affected by the lending shortage.

According to Franchise Business Review president Michelle Rowan, the impact that the smaller, low-cost segment has had on the overall franchising industry as of late is significant. “In the past year, we’ve seen an increase in the number of businesses in the sector, the number of investors looking to buy, and the overall satisfaction of franchisees,” she said. “With the right franchise brand, a low-cost business can be a great investment―even for investors with plenty of capital―because of the relatively low risk (associated with) owning one of these businesses.”

You can start searching for a great low-cost franchise, home-based or small business opportunity by clicking on the BusinessOpportunity.com home page now! In fact, you can discover the very best work from home franchise business opportunities.

And, you can click right here to read Franchise Business Review’s new report on Low-Cost Franchises 2012 or its announcement on the report’s findings.