Buy A Business || Orlando Business Broker
Buying a business is one of the biggest life decisions you will ever have to make. Here is Transworld’s 8-Step guide to finding the right business for you.
Buying a Business FAQ
-
It is advisable to have an attorney review the legal documents involved in buying a business. However, it is important to hire an attorney who is familiar with the process of buying a business and has the time to handle the paperwork on a timely basis. Otherwise, you may be paying for the attorney's education on the subject. Business brokers often have lists of attorneys who are familiar with the business buying process. An experienced attorney can be of real assistance in making sure that all of the details are handled properly. Business brokers are not qualified to give legal advice.
Keep in mind that many attorneys are not qualified to give business advice. Your attorney will be looking after your interests, but you need to remember that the seller's interests must also be considered. If the attorney goes too far in trying to protect your interests, the seller's attorney may instruct the seller not to proceed. The transaction must be fair for all parties. The attorney works for you, and you must have a say in how everything is done.
If you know someone who has owned their own business for a period of time, he or she may also be a valuable resource in answering your questions about how small business really works.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a business is up to you. It is a "leap of faith" that only you can make.
-
A professional business broker can be a valuable asset when purchasing a business. They can provide you with a diverse range of businesses for sale, including many that you may not have discovered on your own. In fact, approximately 90% of business buyers end up purchasing a business that differs significantly from their initial inquiry. Business brokers can offer you a wide variety of businesses to consider, increasing your chances of finding the perfect match for your needs and interests.
Business brokers also serve as an excellent source of information about small businesses and the buying process. They possess in-depth market knowledge and can advise you on current trends, pricing, and local market conditions. Your business broker will handle all aspects of the business sale, guiding you every step of the way. They may even consult with other professionals to ensure you receive comprehensive support.
If you are considering purchasing a business, your local professional business broker is the ideal person to discuss your needs and requirements. Their expertise and guidance can significantly streamline the process and increase your chances of success.
-
Once you have found a suitable business, the business broker can provide immediate answers to many of your questions or conduct further research on your behalf. After addressing your initial questions, the broker will typically prepare an offer outlining the price and terms you deem appropriate. This offer will generally be contingent upon your approval of the actual books and records supporting the provided figures. The primary purpose of the offer is to gauge the seller's willingness to accept your proposed price and terms.
Proceeding further without reaching an agreement on price and terms is futile. The offer is then presented to the seller, who can either accept, reject, or counter it with their own proposal. You, as the buyer, have the ultimate decision of accepting the seller's counteroffer or rejecting it and exploring other business opportunities.
If you and the seller reach an agreement on price and terms, the next step is for you to conduct thorough due diligence. This responsibility falls solely on the buyer – no one else. You can choose to involve external advisors or handle the process independently. Once you have reviewed and approved the areas of concern, the closing documents can be prepared, and the business acquisition can be successfully finalized. You will then join the ranks of many others who have chosen to become their own boss!
-
Undoubtedly, financial resources are crucial for purchasing a business, implementing necessary improvements, and maintaining a financial cushion for potential slow periods. Dedication and the willingness to put in long hours are essential for business success. Unfortunately, many modern buyers lack the commitment required to thrive in business ownership. A business owner must be prepared to assume diverse roles, from janitor and errand boy to employee, bookkeeper, and even "chief bottle washer!" The misconception that business ownership entails leisurely desk work and business plan development is prevalent among many aspiring entrepreneurs. In reality, small business owners must be action-oriented and hands-on in their approach.
-
An existing business offers a proven track record, a significant advantage over starting from scratch. The business has already navigated the challenging start-up phase, demonstrating a viable market demand for its products or services in a specific location. Furthermore, financial records and other relevant information are readily available for review, providing transparency and facilitating informed decision-making. Additionally, most sellers are willing to provide on-site training and financing options, ensuring a smooth transition for the new owner. The opportunity to learn from an experienced seller and benefit from seller financing can be invaluable for aspiring entrepreneurs.