Buying A Business Requires Financial Readiness

Buying a Business is a process. Much like a business owner preparing a business for sale, buyers also have to plan ahead for an acquisition.

Besides focusing on the right type of business to match background and personality, the business also has to be the right size for the buyer. There needs to be enough income to meet personal and family needs while still having enough cash flow to support debt and working capital requirements of the ongoing business.

If the business is too big for the buyer’s pocketbook, there will probably be too much debt, which in turn will stress the working capital and personal needs part of the equation.

Once the right business is found and the seller has accepted the buyer’s offer (we are optimistic), the banking process starts. Getting an acquisition loan from a bank will require a buyer to be completely open with their financial situation. The bank will also be assessing the buyer’s background and the fit with the business, and evaluating the financial history of both buyer and seller.

Buyers will have to submit a detailed list of investments, liquid assets, and real estate that will be used as a down payment and collateral. Also, the buyer will have to submit proof of income in the form of tax returns, check stubs, bank statements, etc. This piece of the process isn’t difficult if you have good records. So have your financial house in order before hunting for a business.

Apex Business Advisors holds monthly “Buying A Business” seminars, so if you are interested in more information, contact your Apex Business Advisor.