Buying an established business

culled from:http://www.business.gov.au

If you plan to buy an existing business, carefully analyse both the advantages and disadvantages, including the history, which is likely to impact the future of the business. One advantage is that a good business history can increase the likelihood of a successful operation and ensure that finance is easier to obtain. Potential disadvantages can be overestimating the goodwill figure and a poor public image inherited from the previous owner.

Things to consider when buying an existing business

As a prospective business owner you should determine the current worth of the business and its future prospects.
When buying a business and considering its worth, you'll think about:

• Vendor - Why and what are the reasons the business being sold?
• Sales - Can you see any patterns or trends? What is the business' customer base? Who are the current suppliers?
• Costs - What are the fixed and variable costs? Are there any staff costs?
• Profits - Have you looked at previous financial records? Is the business profitable?
• Assets - What assets does the business have? Does it have any intellectual property or leasing arrangements?
• Liabilities - Does the business have any outstanding debts? What refunds and warranties still exist for the business? Are there debts owing on assets that are registered on the Personal Property Securities Register ? 
• Purchase agreement - Have you reviewed the purchase agreement carefully?
• Tax - What kinds of tax will apply? Consider GST, Capital Gains Tax, and stamp duty implications.
• Legal issues - What are the legal agreements on leases? What is the business structure?
• History - What has and hasn't worked for the previous owner?

Franchising is another option you can consider if you're looking to buy an established business.
Franchising allows a business to operate under the name and brand of an existing business, and sell their products or services. If you think franchising could be for you, read our Franchising business topic.
For advice and protection in buying a business we suggest that you seek the services of a solicitor, accountant or business adviser.

How much will it cost to buy an existing business?

There many considerations that are taken into account when estimating a business' worth including sales, costs, profits, assets, liabilities, tax and legal issues. Read our Valuing a business page to help determine methods of valuation before purchasing an established business.
To help you determine a fair price, seek advice from a solicitor, accountant or business advisor.