How To Buy a Business

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How to Buy a Business

Resources for how to buy a business.

Beginning Your Search

Buying a Small Business: An Overview

Learn the steps to take to buy a small business: how to choose the right industry, find sellers, what to look for in a business, how to finance the purchase, due diligence steps, and how to close the deal.

Advantage of Buying a Business vs Starting a Business

Should you buy an existing business or start your own? Find out the many advantages to buying an established business, like an existing customer base, reliable cash flow, name and brand recognition and more.

Choosing Between Franchise and Independent Business

Explore the differences between franchising and independent business ownership—the pros and cons of each business model.

How To Buy a Franchise

Buying a franchise business or franchise resale gives entrepreneurs a head start in business ownership by leveraging an established brand and starting a business with a proven track record.

What Is the Difference Between a Main Street vs. Middle Market Business?

Discover the key differences between Main Street and Middle Market businesses and why it matters in the process of valuing and selling your business.

The Lower Middle Market: Exploring Business Transactions and Opportunities

Lower middle market enterprises typically have annual revenues ranging from $5 million to $100 million that companies offer attractive opportunities for growth and profitability with less competition than larger corporations.


Finding and Evaluating Businesses

How to Find Businesses for Sale

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or first-time buyer, discover the best sources for finding a business for sale.

How to Buy a Business That’s Not for Sale: A Guide for Entrepreneurs

There are many pathways to entrepreneurship. This article explores strategies for buyers when considering how to buy a business that's not for sale.


Financial Considerations and Making an Offer

How to Get a Loan to Buy a Business

Buying a business usually involves some method of financing. Whether you're buying an existing business or a franchise, there are several ways to borrow money for the purchase.

How to Use an SBA Loan to Buy a Business

Learn how to use an SBA loan to buy a business. Discover the eligibility, benefits, and application process to secure financing and acquire a small business.

Buying a Business Using Seller Financing

Discover how to buy a business with seller financing. Navigate the intricacies of negotiating seller financing terms using a nuanced approach that ensures mutual benefits for both buyers and sellers.

Making an Offer to Purchase a Business

The steps to make an offer on a business for sale: Find the right price, write a letter of intent, and negotiate the deal.

Understanding the Letter of Intent in Business Acquisitions

Discover the essentials of a Letter of Intent when buying or selling a business. Learn its purpose, key components, and significance in transactions.

What is Rollover Equity? Maximizing Value When Selling a Business

Rollover equity refers to a portion of an owner's interest or stake in a business that's reinvested into the new or acquiring company during a sale, a concept central to private equity transactions.


Due Diligence and Closing the Sale

What is Due Diligence When Buying a Business?

Due diligence is used for various situations, from buying a business to purchasing a home to hiring an employee. In the business world, this means looking at the company's cash flow, market, taxes, assets, and liabilities before it is purchased.

Understanding Commercial Lease Clauses When Buying a Business

Learn about essential commercial lease clauses to consider when buying a business to ensure a successful acquisition.

Buying a Business Checklist

Explore our buying a business checklist for a seamless acquisition process. Essential steps and tips for a successful business purchase.

Closing the Deal When Buying a Business

The final step when buying a business is closing the deal. Learn about how to prepare for the closing, the necessary documents, key participants, and steps to ensure a smooth transition.