Do your research

Secure funding

Close the deal

Let’s explore each of these, below.

RESEARCH DIFFERENT MARKETS

You may have a particular area of interest, or perhaps you’re not quite sure which sort of business venture you want to embark on. Either way, you need to do plenty of research, no matter how familiar you may be with the type of business you want to potentially buy.

IDENTIFY SUCCESSFUL INDUSTRIES

This first crucial step to buying a business involves lots of learning, be it online, via in-person experience, conversations with people succeeding in the field, and so forth. Determine which types of businesses are thriving and those that are on their way out. These details may be specific to where you live or have general implications across the board.

Just because you have an interest or enjoy a particular field, that doesn’t mean it’s a smart business to get into. Of course, you want to enjoy what you do workwise, but part of being a business owner is making solid decisions that will help determine your success in the long run. Running a business is nothing like a side gig or a hobby.

RESEARCH THOROUGHLY

Take your time during this research process, as it’s arguably the most important part of it all. Without the pertinent information, you won’t have the ability to make educated decisions for your business. Consult with experts in the field and weigh all pros and cons carefully.

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH FUNDING?

Your financials will make or break you as you buy a business. If you’re buying an existing business or franchise, learn how and why the seller came up with the price. Determine if that number is on par with what it’s actually worth.

OVERESTIMATE COSTS

You’re likely aware that you’ll have to put significant money towards buying a business, but do you really have an idea of how much this will cost you—both initially and down the road? It’s likely more than you may have bargained for. Overestimate costs so you don’t fall into debt before getting your business off the ground. Note that getting your business running may not happen right away, either.

SECURING FINANCING

You may have to consider financing or borrowing money for lift-off. This could be from a bank or financial institution, a business partner, or a friend or family member who has faith in you. Be realistic as to when you will be able to pay back these loans, as the first year or so may see a dip before you get over the hump. Don’t make promises you can’t keep or sign off on anything unrealistic.

ASSESS YOUR SAVINGS

If you’ve saved your hard-earned money to buy this business, use your funds wisely and conservatively. Blowing it all right off the bat will leave you feeling stressed and strapped for cash when you next need it. Keep saving as much as possible until you see a profit. Then you can reassess how you spend, perhaps putting more into the business month by month.

MAKE YOUR OFFER

When you’ve done your due diligence and have explored all aspects of buying the business, it’s time to propose an offer. Expect plenty of back and forth as you come to an agreement. This negotiation period can be quick or time-consuming, depending on who you’re dealing with. Be patient yet persistent. Don’t settle for something that you’re not comfortable with or an unfair offer. You may be eager, but don’t let your ego overrun your critical thinking.

Hire a savvy lawyer to go through this process with you, as you’ll need their advice and expertise. Plus, you want to be sure every step is legal, binding, and secure. Once you close the deal, you can proceed with building your business with the hopes of a prosperous future.

Questions?

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