Buy a Business
with Expert Guidance
from Sophie
Information for
Business Buyers
Unless you've bought or sold a business in the past, you'll find that buying a business can be a confusing and even trying experience. That's why it is important for the prospective buyer to be knowledgeable about the process involved in buying a business. Thoroughly understanding the process will assist even a veteran of business transfers in working with our company.
Getting Started : Questions And More Questions
Finding a business opportunity usually starts with researching local newspapers, placing telephone calls or visiting web sites like the one we host. The prospective Buyer may be a Corporation, Private Investment Group or a sophisticated Private Investor who has a very definite idea of the type of business wanted. On the other hand, many first time buyers are still in the formative or exploratory stage of their search. Frequently that Buyer's first question is, "What kinds of businesses do you have?".
Although we have many business listings, that question can only be answered properly when we have some idea of the prospective Buyer's resources, skills and needs. For example, if we just listed Ford Motor Company and the prospective Buyer has several billion dollars in available funds and a background in automobile manufacturing, that would be a match made in heaven. But that perfect match would never have occurred unless we ascertained pertinent information regarding the prospective Buyers background, resources and objectives in advance.
The first and most important step is for the business Broker to learn about the prospective Buyer. When we ask, "How many days per week are you comfortable working?", “Are you planning to work alone or hire employees?" or "How much cash do you have for a down payment?", along with other questions, we are gathering the information necessary to match the prospective Buyer to an appropriate business opportunity. We are also narrowing the search and saving the prospective Buyer time and aggravation.
Defining The Business Opportunity Search
After the search has been refined to businesses which fit the prospective Buyer's criteria and requirements, we can communicate non confidential summaries of our business listings to the prospective Buyer in a number of ways. One way is for the prospective Buyer to view our web site and access the non-confidential summaries of our business listings by simply clicking on the "Businesses For Sale Listings Section" page. This page will provide our business opportunities lists, a description of each business, financial details and the asking prices.
Focusing On The Right Business Opportunities
During the search, the prospective Buyer will receive multiple lists of interesting business opportunities. At this stage the business opportunity search moves to a new level involving the necessary disclosure of confidential information relevant to the purchase or sale of any business.
The new level is one of mutual trust and obligation between the prospective Buyer, our company and the Seller(s) of the business(es) of interest.
Confidentiality when buying a business protects the prospective Buyer from having anyone such as an employer, employees, or the competition discover about the proposed acquisition prematurely. It also protects the Seller against unnecessary problems with customers, employees, vendors, competitors, landlords, bankers, creditors, etc.
As a result, all prospective Buyers are required to sign a Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreement before receiving sensitive confidential information.
The Facts
An important element in the purchase process is the business profile. This report on the business offered for sale is written to provide information that the prospective Buyer can review and evaluate in determining the suitability and desirability of the business opportunity. A typical Business Profile contains a detailed description of the business, a summary of financial data and additional business facts such as lease information, number of employees, inventories, pending and operative contracts with vendors and customers and other pertinent information. Following a thorough review of the Business Profile and consultations with the business broker, the prospective Buyer will have a solid understanding of the business, its operations and potential for continued future success.
Face to
Face Meeting
After reviewing the Business Profile, financial data of the business and the business premises, if the prospective Buyer determines that the business presents a desirable opportunity the prospective Buyer should be prepared to make a purchase offer.
In some instances, it may be possible to arrange a face to face meeting between the prospective Buyer and the Seller which may provide additional insights into the operation of the business not otherwise obvious from a review of written documentation.
Making An Offer
After meeting the business owner and touring the business, the next step is to present an offer of purchase for the business. Making the offer is not, however, the final step. In fact, it should be viewed as the first of several steps, each of which bring the Buyer and Seller closer to completing the transaction.
Since most sales involve privately held businesses, the Buyer is obligated to make an offer before actually reviewing the business' internal financial records. The Buyer should understand that its offer is always contingent upon the Seller demonstrating the accuracy of its representations to the prospective Buyer’s satisfaction.
It is the prospective Buyer's duty and obligation to verify the accuracy of the Seller’s representations by retaining attorneys, accountants, business appraisers or other professionals. Any agreement between the prospective Buyer and Seller is “non-binding” until the prospective Buyer has exercised due diligence in verifying the accuracy of Seller’s books and records and all contingencies have been removed.
The Offer: Terms, Conditions & Contingencies
An Offer To Purchase will consist of the following:
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Terms of the offer including price, down payment and financing (interest rate, loan period, etc.).
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Conditions including covenants not to compete, consulting agreements, training agreements, accounting and apportionment of work-in-progress, assumption of liability.
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Contingencies such as approval of books and records, equipment, inventory, assignment of leases or loans and any other items incorporated into the terms of the agreement.
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The Financial statement of the prospective Buyer.
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The Credit Report of the prospective Buyer (paid for by the prospective Buyer).
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"Earnest Money" Deposit Check for ten(10%) percent of the offered price.
Due Diligence
The prospective Buyer and its advisors, attorneys, accountants, business appraisers and other professionals will have a specified period of time to complete a thorough review of the Seller’s books and records, inspect the business premises and take other appropriate steps to verify the Seller’s representations and remove all contingencies (typically 5-10 days). The prospective Buyer and his advisors must utilize due diligence in completing their review of Seller’s business in a timely manner. When the due diligence process is completed and all contingencies are removed, the contract becomes binding. Should the business fail to pass due diligence review, the prospective Buyer may withdraw, modify or amend the Purchase Offer. The Due diligence procedure is costly and time-consuming. It is only initiated after the respective Buyer and Seller have reached an agreement on price and terms.
Financing
The majority of business purchase transactions require some form of financing. We work with our Buyers to secure the appropriate financing. This may involve Seller's financing, bank loan, Venture Capital financing, Angels financing (private investor), SBA financing and funds obtained through other financing resources. Regardless your financing requirements, we will provide guidance and assistance in locating right lender.
Escrow & Closing
Your business purchase will be handled by an independent escrow company. Typically an escrow is opened with the deposit of the Buyer’s earnest money down payment, generally within three(3) to five(5) days after all contingencies have been removed or satisfied. The average escrow will close in one(1) to four(4) weeks if there are no recorded liens against the business. A Cashier’s check will be required for the amount due at closing of escrow.
Congratulations! You’re In Business
The escrow has closed and the big day has arrived. The former prospective Buyer is now owner of the business. A new adventure is at hand. You are now in control of your own destiny.
When you work with us, we will guide you along the way and help make your transition to business owner stress free and simple.
So, now is the time to go to our "Search Listings" section and get started on your search for your part of the American dream.
Please contact me to discuss how I can be of service to you.
Your Trusted Partner for Business Acquisition in Florida
Immigration to the United States, particularly to Florida, offers a unique opportunity through the acquisition of a business, especially with the E2 Investor Visa. If you don’t have a work visa or a green card, this visa allows you to fulfill your American dream while building a solid entrepreneurial project. However, navigating the process of purchasing a business can be complex. That’s where our expertise comes in.
Our consulting firm brings together a team of the best professionals specialized in buying and selling businesses in Florida. Unlike other services, we offer a truly turnkey approach, incorporating all the necessary skills to ensure the success of your project. Our multidisciplinary team, composed of experts in immigration, taxation, business law, and commercial transactions, guides you from finding the best investment opportunity to successfully settling your family in the United States.
Why choose Florida and our expertise?
Florida stands out as one of the most attractive destinations for international investors, thanks to its numerous advantages: favorable tax environment, dynamic economy, and a wide range of commercial opportunities. As a member of the Business Brokers of Florida and affiliated with The Keyes Company, we offer exclusive access to the most comprehensive market database, including businesses, franchises, and companies across various sectors. Our clients include entrepreneurs, influential personalities, athletes, and celebrities, all drawn to our personalized advice and high-level professional network.
As an international Business Broker, I understand the specific needs of foreign investors. My approach is based on core values: honesty, precision, and discretion. My goal is not just to sell you a business but to help you find the right opportunity—one that aligns with your goals while helping you avoid the common pitfalls in such transactions.
A team of experts to ensure your success
Our services go beyond just buying a business. We understand that obtaining the E2 Visa is often one of the most critical aspects of your immigration project. With our expert knowledge of U.S. immigration requirements, we assist you in preparing a strong application that meets government expectations while securing your investment. Every step of your project is managed internally, guaranteeing personalized attention and seamless coordination.
A unique and tailored client experience
Thanks to our exceptional network and recognized expertise, we have successfully helped numerous entrepreneurs and high-profile individuals establish themselves in Florida. Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or a first-time investor, we provide unparalleled tools and resources, along with exclusive access to the best business opportunities on the market.
If you’re looking to establish yourself in the United States, don’t leave anything to chance. Choose a trusted team that understands both your expectations and the local market, and will support you at every stage to turn your American dream into a reality.
Discover our complete range of services and join the many entrepreneurs who have successfully settled in Florida, thanks to our expertise.