Buying into an existing business is a high-stakes shortcut to entrepreneurship. You skip the "startup struggle," but you inherit the previous owner's history—both good and bad. 1. Identify Your Entry Point
Contact businesses in industries you know. Owners may be thinking about retirement but haven't listed yet. buying into an existing business
Review at least 3 years of tax returns, P&L statements, and balance sheets. Watch out for "owner add-backs" (personal expenses run through the business). Buying into an existing business is a high-stakes
(Retirement and health are good; "the industry is dying" or "lawsuit pending" are red flags.) buying into an existing business
Does it rely entirely on the owner's personal relationships? If so, the value may disappear when they leave.