Buying a business in Southwest Florida
Buying an established business can be a faster path to ownership than starting from scratch, provided you find the right fit and do the homework. I'll help you through each step.
From first search to closing
Define your goals
Industry, location, budget, the role you want to play and the income you need. I'll help you set realistic criteria.
Review opportunities
Browse businesses for sale through American Business Brokers and its network, and sign NDAs to receive confidential details.
Evaluate the business
Review financials, SDE, operations, staff, lease and customers. Meet the seller and ask the hard questions.
Arrange financing
Confirm how you'll fund the purchase: cash, SBA lending, seller financing or a combination.
Make an offer
Structure an offer covering price, terms, contingencies, training and transition, and negotiate to agreement.
Due diligence & closing
Verify the numbers with your accountant and attorney, finalize financing and licenses, and close.
Common ways buyers finance an acquisition
Most deals combine buyer equity with one or more sources below. Terms, eligibility and down payments are set by lenders and sellers and vary by deal.
SBA 7(a) loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration's 7(a) program guarantees loans made by participating lenders, and is widely used to buy existing businesses. Lenders look at the business's cash flow, the buyer's experience, credit and down payment. Eligibility rules, including citizenship and residency requirements, apply.
Seller financing
The seller carries part of the price as a note, paid over time. It can bridge a gap in financing, and it shows the seller has confidence in the business. It's often combined with buyer cash or a bank loan.
Cash & other sources
Buyer cash, conventional bank loans, or other lending sources may also be used. American Business Brokers lists some lender pre-qualified businesses.
This is general information, not a financing commitment or advice. All financing is subject to lender approval.
Buying a U.S. business as an E-2 Treaty Investor
The E-2 Treaty Investor visa is one route that nationals of treaty countries, including Canada, use to buy and operate a business in the United States. I completed the E-2 process myself to relocate and establish myself in Florida, so I understand what buyers go through when they move their families and operations here.
As your broker, I can help you:
- Find businesses whose size and structure may suit an E-2 investment, for review by your immigration attorney
- Understand the business, its financials and operations
- Coordinate timelines and contingencies with your attorney during the purchase
Businesses ABB marks as visa-qualified → · ABB visa information →
Important: I am a business broker, not an immigration attorney. Visa eligibility and approval are determined by U.S. government authorities, and no broker can promise a visa outcome. Before committing to a purchase, always consult a qualified U.S. immigration attorney.
Thinking about selling, or ready to buy?
Start with a confidential conversation. No obligation, and nothing is shared without your permission.