Entering the business world by purchasing an existing business can be an exciting venture. As an accountant, I have guided many new business owners through this process, offering advice on financial evaluation, due diligence, and strategic planning. If you’re considering buying a business, understanding the basics is crucial for a successful transition. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Assessing Your Goals and Objectives

  • Define Your Vision: Understand why you want to buy a business and what you hope to achieve. This clarity will guide your decision-making process.
  • Industry and Size: Consider the industry and size of the business that aligns with your experience, interests, and investment capacity.

2. Financial Assessment

  • Budgeting: Determine your budget, including your available capital and the extent to which you will need financing.
  • Profitability Analysis: Review the business’s financial statements for profitability. Look at revenue trends, expenses, cash flow, and net income.

3. Due Diligence

  • Comprehensive Review: Conduct a thorough due diligence process. This involves examining the business’s financial records, legal contracts, employee information, assets, and customer base.
  • Identify Liabilities: Be aware of any debts or liabilities that come with the business. This includes outstanding loans, leases, and legal disputes.

4. Valuation of the Business

  • Determining Worth: Evaluate the worth of the business. This can involve different valuation methods, such as asset-based valuation, earnings multiplier, or market value comparison.
  • Professional Valuation: Consider hiring a professional to conduct a business valuation to ensure an accurate assessment.

5. Legal Considerations

  • Legal Structure: Understand the legal structure of the business and what will be transferred upon sale (e.g., assets only, shares, or membership interests).
  • Contracts and Agreements: Review all contracts and legal agreements, including leases, vendor contracts, and employment agreements.

6. Negotiating the Sale

  • Sale Terms: Negotiate the terms of the sale, including the price, payment terms, and transition period.
  • Letter of Intent: Once terms are agreed upon, a letter of intent (LOI) is typically drafted, outlining the terms of the sale.

7. Financing the Purchase

  • Financing Options: Explore financing options if necessary. This may include bank loans, investor funding, or seller financing.
  • Financial Projections: Ensure that your financial projections support the ability to repay any financing obtained.

8. Transition Planning

  • Handover Period: Plan for a transition period where the previous owner assists with the handover of the business.
  • Integration Strategy: Develop a strategy for integrating the business into your management style and making any necessary changes.

9. Seeking Professional Advice

  • Accountant and Lawyer: Engage an accountant and a lawyer specialised in business acquisitions. They can provide critical guidance on financial evaluation, legal compliance, and the overall purchasing process.


Buying a business requires careful planning, thorough evaluation, and strategic decision-making. It’s crucial to assess your goals, conduct due diligence, understand the business’s value, and negotiate effectively. Remember, professional advice from accountants and lawyers is invaluable in navigating this complex process, ensuring that you make a well-informed and profitable investment.