[LeeH]

I was looking through a web site that lists businesses for sale when I saw that the UPS store down the street from me is on the market. Hmmmm. The store's been there for 10 years. The owner is there, but seemingly only part time - not round the clock like some of these places.

I decide to request more info just to see what's what. I got a call from a sales guy at their corporate office who tells me that they don't work like other businesses. Because they are so good at what they do, I have to apply, interview, be approved, pay them $15K, and at that point I will be able to start "shopping" for a store. The one close to me may or may not be available. If it is available, then I can see the stores financials AFTER I've paid the money. If I don't buy a store they will give me half of my money back and keep the balance for their time and trouble.

He actually seemed a little shocked and offended when I politely declined. Staying polite was a challenge on my part. Do people really sign up for this? He asked if I had been in the military. Since I have, I qualify for a $3600 "application fee" instead of $15K. "You're only risking $1800!" I was told. Ummm. No I'm not.