Buyer to Seller Questions Midwest Business Brokers



	WHAT BUYERS WANT TO KNOW		In preparing to sell your business, it is important to know the types of questions a potential buyer will ask. Below is a sampling of typical questions asked by buyers when researching possible acquisition companies. A more detailed list of questions is available to our clients.



	GENERAL		What product or service does the business market and sell? What needs does the company satisfy? What is the form of the organization? Who are the owners and what percentage do they own? How long has the business been in business? How long have the present owners owned the business? Will you provide company and product literature?



	FINANCIAL		What are the sales and profits for the company for the prior three years? What is the debt situation? What investment capital is required to grow the business?



	MARKET RELATED		What are the obstacles and advantages experienced by the company? What methods does the company use to sell and distribute products and services? Who are the typical customers? How can the business grow?



	PURCHASE RELATED		What is the list price? How much is the down payment? How much income can the new owner expect? Why is the seller selling? Will the owner finance the sale? Will the owner stay and work with the buyer? Will the tax returns support the owner's records?