In most cases, buying an existing business is less risky than starting
from scratch. When you buy a business, you take over an operation that's already generating cash flow and profits. You have an
established customer base and reputation, as well as employees who are familiar with all aspects of the business. And you do not
have to reinvent the wheel by setting up new procedures, systems and policies, since a successful formula for running the business
has already been put in place.
On the downside, buying a business is often more costly than starting from
scratch. However, it's often easier to get financing to buy an existing business than to start a new one. Bankers and investors
generally feel more comfortable dealing with a business that already has a proven track record. In addition, buying a business may
give you valuable legal rights, such as patents or copyrights, which can prove very profitable.
Of course, there's no such thing as a 'sure thing' and buying an existing
business is no exception. If you are not careful, you could get stuck with obsolete inventory, uncooperative employees, or outdated
distribution methods. To make sure you get the best deal when buying an existing business, be sure you are making the right
choice.
Buying the perfect business starts with choosing the right type of
business for you. The best place to start is by looking in an industry you are familiar with and understand. Think long and hard
about the types of businesses you are interested in and which are the best match with your skills and experience. Also consider the
size of business you are looking for, in terms of employees, number of locations and sales.
It is also very important to pinpoint the geographical area where you want
to own a business. Assess the labor pool and costs of doing business in that area, including wages and taxes, to make sure they're
acceptable to you. Once you've chosen a region and an industry to focus on, investigate every business in the area that meets your
requirements. Start by looking in the local newspaper's classified ad section under "Business Opportunities" or "Businesses for
Sale." You can also run your own "Wanted to Buy" ad describing what you are looking for.
Remember, just because a business isn't listed doesn't mean it isn't for
sale. Talk to business owners in the industry; many of them might not have their businesses up for sale but would consider selling
if you made them an offer. Put your networking abilities and business contacts to use, and you're likely to hear of other
businesses that might be good prospects.
Contacting a business broker is another way to find businesses for sale.
Most brokers are hired by sellers to find buyers and help negotiate deals. If you hire a broker, he or she will charge you a
commission - typically 5 to 10 percent of the purchase price. The assistance brokers can offer, especially for first-time buyers,
is often worth the cost. However, if you are really trying to save money, consider hiring a broker only when you are near the final
negotiating phase.
There is a limit to how much a lender will lend with unsecured loans but the limit is related to your home with secured loans. If you have a business property you need to watch how much fees you pay on commercial mortgages. If you want to minimise your monthly outgoings you should get an interest only mortgages.