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Right Time to Buy:

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Timing can make or break a deal:

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• Your Readiness: Do you have the funds, skills, or time to take on a business?

• Market Conditions: Is the industry growing (e.g., e-commerce booming) or stable? Check Australian trends.

• Seasonality: Some businesses shine at certain times (e.g., retail before Christmas). Buy when you’re prepared and the market’s ripe — don’t rush into a fading opportunity.​

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Setting Your Budget:

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Know what you can spend:

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• Funds: Calculate cash on hand, loans, or investor support—include a buffer for extras.

• Business Value: Look at revenue, profit, and assets to judge worth (e.g., 2-3x profit is common).

• Hidden Costs: Factor in legal fees, stock, or upgrades post-purchase.

• Flexibility: Set a range (e.g., $200K-$250K) to negotiate within your limit.

 

Legals:

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Buying privately is straightforward, but stay sharp:

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• Ownership: Confirm the seller has the right to sell — no debts or partners blocking it.

• Contracts: Hire a lawyer to review the sale agreement—protect your investment.

• Licenses/Leases: Check if permits or leases are transferable (e.g., a shop’s rental terms).

• Confidentiality: Sign our confidentiality agreement to access detailed info safely.

 

Finding a Listing:

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Start your search with us:

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• Browse: Explore listings on SeekBusiness.com.au, CommercialRealEstate.com.au, BusinessforSale.com.au, and Jawai to find your next opportunity.

• Sign Up: Register for buyer alerts—get emails when businesses match your criteria.

• Filter: Narrow by location, industry, or price to find your fit.

• Act Fast: Good businesses move quick—submit interest when you spot a winner.

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Reviewing Photos:

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Dig into the details:

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• What to Check: Look at the premises, equipment, or products—do they match the description?

• Red Flags: Blurry pics, empty spaces, or outdated gear might signal issues.

• Ask More: If photos are sparse, request extras after signing the confidentiality agreement.
  They’re your sneak peek—use them to gauge potential.

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Evaluating the Business:

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Your Business Information Memorandum (IM) is your pitch:

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• Information Memorandum (IM): After signing the confidentiality agreement, you’ll get the IM—read its overview, financials, and opportunities.

• Financials: Look at revenue and profit trends—are they steady or growing?

• Assets: What’s included (e.g., stock, machines)? Does it justify the price?

• Questions: Note what’s unclear—ask the seller directly when you connect.s.

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Dealing with Sellers:

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You’re in direct contact:

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• Submit Interest: Request info via our platform—we’ll send you a confidentiality agreement.

• Get the IM: Once signed, review the initial details.

• Reach Out: If it’s a match, contact the seller to ask questions or arrange a chat.

• Build Trust: Be professional—serious buyers get better responses.

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Additional Research:

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Go beyond the listing:

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• Market Check: Research the industry (e.g., ABS data) and local demand (e.g., foot traffic).

• Competitors: Visit similar businesses nearby—how does this one stack up?

• Online: Search reviews or social media for customer vibes.

• Our Database: Tap into our thousands of listings for comparisons.

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Knowledge is power—verify the opportunity.

 

Inspections

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See it for yourself:

 

• Book It: Arrange a visit with the seller—aim for a busy time to see it in action.

• Observe: Check condition, staff vibe, and customer flow—does it feel right?

• Ask: Quiz the seller on operations, challenges, or handover plans.

• Bring Backup: Take a trusted advisor (e.g., accountant) if you’re unsure.

 

Negotiating Your Purchase

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Get the fairest deal for both parties:

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• Start Lower: Give your self some room to negotiate

• Listen: Hear their counter—focus on value points like profit or assets.

• Terms: Nail down price, payment (e.g., installments?), and transition support.

• Stay Cool: Don’t overpush—walk away if it’s not your fit.

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The Deposit:

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Lock it in:

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• Offer It: Pay 5-10% of the price (e.g., $15K on a $150K deal) to show you’re serious.

• Make It Safe: Use a lawyer or trust account—ensure it’s refundable if the sale flops.

• Agree: Sign a deposit agreement with the seller—clarify conditions. this secures your spot while finalising the finer details.

 

The Settlement:

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Close the purchase:

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• Timeline: Typically 30-60 days after the deposit — set it with the seller.

• Paperwork: Your lawyer handles the sale contract and ownership transfer.

• Payment: Pay the balance (e.g., bank transfer)—confirm it’s received.

• Takeover: Get keys, assets, and records—your business now!

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Transfer Your Business:

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Step into ownership:

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• Assets: Collect what’s included—stock, equipment, or leases.

• Training: Ask for a handover (e.g., 1-2 weeks) if offered—learn the ropes.

• Notify: Update suppliers, staff, or regulators (e.g., ATO) as needed.

• Launch: Start running it your way—congrats, you’re the boss!

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Buying privately connects you straight to sellers. Use our platform’s listings, alerts, and support to find your perfect business. Got questions? We’re here to help. Ready to buy? Start browsing or sign up for alerts today!

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