What You Need to Know as a First-Time Business Buyer

In this article, we will discuss what you need to know and consider when purchasing your first business.

Inika Pieters

05 September 2025

Summary

What You Need to Know as a First-Time Business Buyer

Owning a business and seeing it flourish is probably one of the most satisfying accomplishments one can achieve in life. However, if you are a first-time buyer you probably don't know where to start when searching for your first business.

In this article, we will discuss what you need to know and consider when purchasing your first business.

What You Need to Purchase Your First Business

If you have decided to purchase a business then you will need to keep a variety of factors in mind. These factors will guide you in purchasing the perfect business for your interests and level of experience, ensuring that you succeed.

Knowledge of the Product or Service

It is advisable to search for and purchase a business that you already have knowledge of. For example, do you have experience in the industry that your potential business is in? Have you worked with or provided the products and services that the business sells?

You do not necessarily require experience working in this field, perhaps you have always been interested in the industry and kept it as a hobby up until now. However, some experience and knowledge is a bonus as your learning curve will not be as steep.

Decide on Your Desired Location

You need to decide whether relocation is an option for you or if you want to stay in your area. If you want to stay close to home your options will be slightly diminished but you will have the benefit of knowing your area and target market. This will count in your favour if you are purchasing a business such as a salon, butchery, or restaurant.

Size of the Business and Funds Available

When purchasing a business for the first time, it is important to look at your finances and determine what will be in your budget. It has been said that it is a good idea to have around a third of the business’s purchase price available. This will ensure that your bank loan will not have to be as large and will provide you with more funds to spend on marketing campaigns and other costs. You should also consider how large the business is. It might be smarter to purchase a smaller business that you can grow over time if it is a first-time purchase.

Franchise or Private Business

It might be smart to consider purchasing a franchise as your first business as franchisors offer a lot of support, advice, training, and help as they want you to succeed. A franchise also has the benefit of already having a larger reputation than a private business will have which means a larger customer base.

 

Business for Sale is the perfect platform on which to find your first business. From private businesses to franchises, we list them all, and provide you with detailed information concerning the business. Allowing you to have a clear view of the business you are interested in.
 

Browse Business for Sale for your future business.