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The media continues to flood the business headlines with economic doom and gloom. However, it’s not all bad. Now might, in fact, be a good time to consider buying your own business. Why?
Not all businesses are struggling. Some are trading consistently and some are expanding. The current economic climate inevitably means that there are opportunities.
Owning your own business means you’re the boss and you get to make the all important decisions. You no longer have the worries and anxiety of possible redundancy.
There may well be an increase in the number of businesses for sale, which provides more choice for buyers. It would be wrong however, to assume that a business is up for sale simply because they are struggling. There are many reasons why owners put their business on the market – retirement, poor health, family commitments, ready for a change. These reasons will always apply no matter what is happening in the economy.
The premises are more often than not an important part of any business. If the business rents premises then now is a good opportunity to negotiate terms of any lease. Landlords can no longer claim relief from business rates where the premises are empty. Landlords therefore have to be sensible when offering rents and incentives in order to secure a tenant quickly. You may even be able to negotiate rent free periods or reduced rents.
There may also be better opportunities when it comes to buying equipment, stock and supplies.
With high levels of unemployment and redundancies there are more trained and experienced people on the look out for work. This means you have a better chance of finding the right people to work for you.
The banks and building societies lending requirements are still tough especially for financing start up businesses. Buying an existing business with a solid trading history and accounts is always going to be a safer bet, for both the bank and you as the purchaser.
If you’ve decided you want to buy, your next step will be to obtain the right advice from the correct professional advisors.
Contact a business agent to find out what businesses are for sale. Everett Masson & Furby are well established and trusted and their national coverage means that they have the widest choice of businesses for sale on the market at any one time.
You may need an accountant to deal with the financial aspects of the purchase, such as reviewing the accounts as well giving advice on Vat and any other tax implications.
You will need a solicitor who, ideally, specialises in business sales so that they can give you the correct advice and guidance throughout the buying process.
At Howells, www.howellslegal.com we have a dedicated team of solicitors that specialise in business transfers. We ensure that you and the business you are buying are protected.
Our aim is to ensure that your purchase is dealt with quickly and cost effectively. We act for clients buying all types of businesses throughout the UK. We work closely with you to ensure that that you’re completely informed throughout the whole process.
Here at Howells due to our experience and expertise we can offer our services on a fixed fee arrangement. This ensures that you’re in control of the costs and allows you to budget when negotiating the purchase price.
If you are considering buying a business and would like a no obligation fee estimate from one of our specialist commercial solicitors then please contact us on the number or email below. To find out more about our services please visit our web site at www.howellslegal.com