9 Steps to Buying a Business

Embarking on the journey of buying a business is an exhilarating venture that promises not only financial rewards but also personal fulfilment.  

 At SWIG Finance, we understand the complexities involved in this process and are here to guide you through every step. Whether you’re looking to buy a small business or acquire a larger company, the pathway to successful ownership involves careful planning and strategic decision-making.  

 In this article, our Start Up Loans Officer, Suzy Lowe, takes you through 9 key steps to help you prepare for buying a business. 

Suzy Lowe, Start Up Loans Senior Officer at SWIG Finance

1. Self-Assessment: What Are Your Goals for Buying a Business?

Personal Assessment 

The journey to business ownership begins with a deep dive into who you are. This personal assessment is not just about listing your skills and interests; it’s about understanding how these elements of your identity can shape your future as a business owner.  

 Think about what gets you out of bed in the morning, the tasks you enjoy, and those you excel at. Are you a born leader, or do you thrive in a team? Do you have a passion for technology, or does the hospitality industry excite you?    

This process helps in identifying a business that not only aligns with your strengths but also ignites your passions, ensuring long-term satisfaction and success. 

Objective Setting 

Defining your objectives is crucial in charting your path to business ownership. Ask yourself: What am I looking to achieve by buying a business? Is it financial independence, the challenge of growing a company, or the freedom of being your own boss?  

These objectives will act as your north star, guiding you through the myriad of options to find a business that meets your personal and financial aspirations.  

Whether it’s a steady income you’re after, a business with growth potential, or one that allows you a certain lifestyle, being clear on your goals from the outset will streamline your search and decision-making process. 

Considerations 

Embarking on this journey requires careful consideration of several key factors:

• Investment Capital: Assess the funds you are willing to allocate. This will not only influence the size and type of business you can afford but also your approach to financing the acquisition. 

• Income Expectations: Consider the income you need to sustain your desired lifestyle. This includes salary and potential profits from the business, shaping your search towards financially viable ventures. 

• Time Commitment: Buying and running a business demands time. Reflect on your availability and willingness to commit to the demands of the business, as this will affect the type of business you should consider. 

• Management Capability: Be honest about the kind of business you can effectively manage. Aligning this with your skills and strengths will lead to a more gratifying and successful entrepreneurial journey. 

• Industry Preference: Finally, think about the industry that interests you. An alignment with your interests and expertise will not only be fulfilling but also instrumental in overcoming the challenges of business ownership. 

2. Business Search and Initial Screening

Market Research 

The search for the perfect business begins with broad market research. Cast a wide net to explore various industries and markets, then gradually narrow down your focus to specific niches and topics. This methodical approach allows you to uncover hidden opportunities and understand the dynamics of different sectors. Pay attention to market trends, growth potential, and the competitive landscape. This initial broad scan is crucial in identifying industries that not only have a promising future but also resonate with your personal and professional aspirations. 

Business Listings

With a clearer understanding of your preferred industries, it’s time to dive into business listings. Utilise a variety of resources such as business brokers, online marketplaces, and networking within industry circles. Don’t overlook businesses that may not be actively advertised for sale; with the right offer, every business owner might consider selling. Engaging with industry professionals and attending relevant expos and seminars can also uncover valuable leads. Remember, the right business opportunity might come from the most unexpected places. 

Initial Screening 

Having identified potential businesses, the next step is to screen these opportunities against your predefined criteria. This includes evaluating the size of the business, its location, the industry it operates in, and its profitability. This screening process should be reflective of your self-assessment outcomes, ensuring that the businesses you consider align with your skills, interests, investment capacity, and lifestyle aspirations. This initial screening is a critical step in narrowing down your options to those that best fit your personal and professional goals, setting the stage for a deeper investigation and due diligence. 

The search for the perfect business begins with broad market research.

3. Preliminary Due Diligence When Buying a Business

Review Financial Statements 

In the preliminary due diligence phase, a detailed examination of the financial health of the business is imperative. Access the business’s balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements for the past few years through Companies House. This review will provide insights into the business’s financial stability, profitability, and cash flow management. Look for trends in revenue growth, profit margins, and capital expenditure. Analysing these financial documents will help you gauge the financial performance and potential financial risks of the business. 

Business Operations 

Understanding the business’s operational model is crucial. Dive into how the business functions on a day-to-day basis, its core revenue streams, and its operational efficiencies. Evaluate the customer base to understand its diversity and loyalty, which are indicators of the business’s market stability. Assess the competitive landscape by identifying direct and indirect competitors, market share, and the business’s unique selling proposition (USP). This comprehensive understanding of the business operations, customer base, and market position will inform your decision-making process. 

4. Valuation and Offer

Business Valuation 

Valuing a business accurately is a complex process that requires employing various valuation methods. The asset-based approach looks at the company’s total net asset value to determine its worth. The earning value method, on the other hand, assesses the business’s potential to generate income in the future, often using historical earnings as a basis and adjusting for expected growth and risk. The market value approach compares the business to similar companies in the industry that have recently been sold. Each method provides a different perspective on the value of the business, and a combination of these approaches is often used to arrive at a fair valuation. 

Letter of Intent (LoI) 

Once you have a valuation and a clear interest in proceeding, drafting a Letter of Intent (LoI) is the next step to buying a business. The LoI serves as a formal proposal to purchase the business, outlining the preliminary terms and conditions of the purchase. It typically includes the proposed purchase price, the structure of the deal (cash, stock, or a combination), and any contingencies that must be satisfied before finalising the deal. The LoI signals your serious intent to the seller and sets the stage for more detailed negotiations and due diligence. 

The due diligence process uncovers any potential issues that could affect the value of the business or pose risks in the future.

5. Formal Due Diligence

Comprehensive Review 

The formal due diligence phase involves an in-depth analysis of every aspect of the business. This phase goes beyond financial review to include legal compliance, contractual obligations, intellectual property rights, employment contracts, and any pending litigation. Operational aspects, such as supply chain efficiency, inventory management, and the condition of physical assets, are also scrutinised. This thorough review is designed to uncover any potential issues that could affect the value of the business or pose risks in the future. 

Risk Assessment 

Identifying potential risks and preparing contingencies is a critical component of formal due diligence. This includes evaluating the stability and reliability of the employee base, understanding key management roles, and assessing any dependencies on specific employees. Analysing market trends and industry forecasts will also help identify external risks that could impact the business. This stage is about uncovering any deal-breakers and establishing mitigating strategies to address these risks, ensuring a smooth transition and successful operation post-acquisition. 

6. Financing

Funding Options 

Securing the necessary capital is a pivotal step in the business acquisition process. Potential sources include personal savings, which offer the advantage of no repayment obligations but may deplete personal reserves.  

Bank loans are a common route, providing structured repayment terms but requiring thorough documentation and credit checks. Seller financing can be an attractive option, where the seller agrees to finance part of the purchase price, often leading to smoother negotiations. Investor capital, either from angel investors or venture capitalists, offers another avenue, though it may come with equity stakes or specific terms.  

As an alternative lender, SWIG Finance specialises in navigating these complex financing waters. If you’re looking to purchase a business, a business loan or a Start Up Loan, or a mix of both, from SWIG Finance could be part of your funding solution. Whether you’re seeking funding to buy an established business or a franchise, we have the experience and resources to help. 

Loan Application 

The loan application process involves compiling and presenting a comprehensive financial package that includes historical financial statements of the business, a detailed business plan and cashflow forecasts. We will also need to see a purchase agreement. 

SWIG Finance has a team of local and dedicated business managers to guide you through this process. 

7. Negotiation and Final Offer

Term Negotiation 

Negotiations are a critical phase where the purchase price, terms, conditions, and any contingencies are discussed and agreed upon. This stage requires a delicate balance of assertiveness and flexibility, as both parties work towards a mutually beneficial agreement. Industry benchmarks, valuation outcomes, and due diligence findings play pivotal roles in informing these negotiations. 

Purchase Agreement 

Following successful negotiations, drafting a legally binding purchase agreement is the next step. This document formalises the sale and outlines the terms of the agreement, including payment schedules, representations and warranties, and any post-sale obligations. Legal counsel is crucial at this stage to ensure that the agreement is comprehensive and protects your interests. The purchase agreement marks the official commitment to the transaction. 

8. Closing and Transition

Closing Process 

The closing process entails completing all legal and financial formalities to officially transfer ownership of the business. This includes executing the purchase agreement, finalizing financial transactions, and transferring titles and assets. It’s a meticulous process that often involves lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. 

Transition Plan 

A well-structured transition plan is essential for a smooth handover of the business operations. This plan should cover operational aspects, employee integration, and the transfer of critical knowledge and relationships. Working closely with the seller during this phase can facilitate a seamless transition, ensuring continuity of operations and preserving the value of the business. 

A well-structured transition plan is essential for a smooth handover of the business operations.

9. Post-Purchase Integration and Strategy

Operational Integration 

Integrating the acquired business into your existing operations or strategic framework is a critical post-purchase step. This involves aligning operational processes, merging cultures, and potentially consolidating systems and resources. The goal is to achieve operational synergies that enhance efficiency and drive growth. 

Strategic Planning 

Developing a long-term strategic plan post-acquisition is crucial for the sustained growth and optimisation of the business. This plan should encompass market expansion opportunities, potential product or service diversification, and efficiency improvements. Regular reviews and adjustments to the strategy will be necessary to adapt to market changes and ensure the business remains on a trajectory for success. 

At SWIG Finance, we’re committed to supporting you through this exciting journey of buying a business. Our business managers will support you throughout the application process and for the duration of the loan to help give your business the best chance for success. 

About SWIG Finance

SWIG Finance is a people-based lender that provides loans and support to help smaller businesses in the South and West Country grow. We base our lending decisions on potential rather than collateral, which means that we can often support businesses when others can't.  

We’re growing every year. In 2024/25, we lent £14.8m to 501 businesses, helping to create and secure over 1,272 jobs and generate £75.7m in social impact. Download the report here.

If you’d like an informal chat about your funding requirements, get in touch with our friendly and professional team to see how we can help: info@swigfinance.co.uk / 01872 227 930