Some things to think about:

- What sort of businesses appeal to you and why
- What sort of businesses do not appeal to you and why
- Which industry - service based, wholesale, retail, food, professional practice, import/export, franchise etc
- The type of business that best suits your abilities
- The style of business that will fit into your lifestyle
- What skills you have acquired
- Do you have the ability to learn new skills quickly
- Are you an outdoor or indoor person
- How many hours you are prepared to put into the business each week
- Do you want to work 5 days or 7 day
- Do you want to work in the business, or have it managed
- What is your maximum price range
- What aspects don't you want
- What location
- How will you finance the purchase of the business
- Who can give you advice (an accountant or financial advisor)
- Consider quality time (ie golf) and children (ie sport and school commitments)

- Type of business
- Location
- Income
- Price

These costs may include:

- Value of Stock
- Guarantees for the Lease
- Stamp Duty
- Legal and Accountant's Fees

- The deposit need be only 10% of the business total sale price, not including stock
- The money is secured in the Scan Trust Account and released when the contract is settled.

These may include:
- Wages
- Tax and GST
- Superannuation
- Compensation
- Staff training, disputes, hire and fire

This information should include:

- Details of the Lease
- Staff information
- Financials
- Background
- Current / Future industry trends and opportunites

This information should include:

- A Due Diligence period, or a trial period to verify sales, is allowed for in the business contract. This enables the buyer and their accountant to be fully satisfied with the financial information provided.

The Broker will:

- Need to know your personal contact details, some details of your business history and experience, what type of business you are looking for (your wish list), and your financial arrangements for purchase
- Then match up your requirements with suitable businesses listed for sale. A Confidentiality Agreement will need to be signed before any information about the business is given to you. The Information Memorandum is confidential and should only be read by those on a need-to-know basis (ie your accountant)
- Arrange an inspection of the business premises - usually after hours
- Draw up a contract
- Negotiate between the buyer and the seller to reach terms and conditions satisfactory for both parties
- Send copies of contract to both parties and their solicitors
- Monitor all terms and conditions in contract through to completion