Buying an Existing Business

What You Need to Know to Buy A Business

Buying a small business is a big decision. There are a variety of factors which must be considered as well as a great deal of information to gather and analyze. The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center offers a variety of services to individuals who are considering buying a business. The ASBTDC provides this assistance through training programs, tools, business resources, and counseling services. The ASBTDC offers helpful information and tools to those who are in the process of buying an  existing small business. A great deal of information is available online.

Action Steps to Buy a Business

For those who are considering purchasing a business, the ASBTDC offers suggested Action Steps which are listed below for Buying a Small Business. These steps are intended to help guide you through the process as well as point you towards suggested information and tools.

Step 1: Take the ASBTDC Buying a Business Online Course The first course recommended to those who are considering purchasing a business is the online “Buying a Business” course. Participating in the Buying a Business course will provide you with a good foundation as you proceed with purchasing an existing business. The ASBTDC also offers training programs of interest to those who are purchasing a business. Live classes as well as online courses are available. The link below lists other courses available: Training Calendar – Instructor Led Courses

Step 2: Consider potential funding needs and realities of obtaining financing. Obtaining financing to purchase a business can be challenging. It is important to estimate the amount of funding that would be needed for the project and consider funding requirements. It is recommended that those considering buying a business review “Can I Qualify for a Loan?”and consider the realities of obtaining financing.

Step 3: Gather Information from the Seller - A Checklist Obtaining information from the seller about the business is a very important step. This information can help in the decision making process as well as will be required if financing is needed. Review the checklist to help you when gathering information from the seller.Arkansas Residents - If you would like to talk with someone about the information you’ve obtained from the seller and about the feasibility of your project, the ASBTDC can assist you. To obtain this assistance, contact your local ASBTDC office.

Step 4: Consider Planned Changes to the Business It is important to consider any planned or required changes to the business. How will the business be different under your ownership? How will these changes affect the business? What would be the cost of such changes? A written explanation of planned changes should be developed.

Step 5: Develop Financial Projections – Online Courses Available Develop income statement and cash flow projections based on historical performance, information obtained from the seller, and planned changes to the business operation under new ownership. Developing projections can help you determine whether or not the project is feasible and if you are still interested in moving forward with the business purchase.

Step 6: If financing is needed, develop and submit a loan proposal to a potential lender. Individuals planning a business acquisition who need financing should develop a loan proposal to communicate with potential lenders. A loan proposal provides lenders the information they need in order to decide whether or not to finance the project.

Frequently Asked Questions The ASBTDC provides answers to common questions often asked by those who are considering purchasing a business.