Buy a Business with Alta Business Advisors

Thinking about owning your own company? At Upland Business Advisors, we make it easier to buy a business that fits your goals, lifestyle, and financial plan. Whether you're a first-time buyer or seasoned investor, our expert business brokers guide you every step of the way.

Start Your Journey to Business Ownership

Step 1: Schedule Your Buyer Consultation

Your first step is booking a one-on-one consultation with an Alta Business Advisor. During your meeting, we’ll: Learn what type of business interests you

Determine your budget and funding sources Discuss location preferences and industry experience Present available businesses for sale that match your criteria

Step 2: Know Your Investment Capacity: Before jumping into the market, it's important to understand how much capital you have to work with—and how flexible your financing can be.

• Some sellers offer financing or creative deal structures

• You may qualify to leverage funds for a larger business

• Family gifts or loans are allowed—just be ready to verify

Proof of Funds is Required: To protect confidential information, sellers typically request documentation (bank or brokerage statements) showing you’re financially qualified before moving forward.

Step 3: Keep an Open Mind: There’s more out there than you think! Many buyers come in looking for a specific industry but end up discovering unexpected opportunities with better cash flow, easier operations, or less competition. As your business broker, we may show you options you haven’t considered—but that offer real potential for success.

Step 4: Research & Financial Review: If a business interests you, be thorough with your questions, both operational & financial. We will get you answers. This is your chance to ask direct questions about the business, and get a behind-the-scenes look at operations.

Step 5: Make a Strategic Offer: When you're ready to move forward, we help you prepare a professionally structured Offer to Purchase. Our agreements are designed to protect your interests, cover key deal points (inventory, leases, employees, etc.), allow for flexibility through the due diligence process. You will need proof of funds for the downpayment.

Step 6: Perform Due Diligence: after your offer is accepted, you’ll enter the due diligence phase, where you get full access to business records and supporting documentation. You’ll review financial statements, tax returns, contracts, licenses, and leases plus day-to-day operations and staffing. If something doesn’t check out, you can walk away..

Step 7: Close the Deal: once everything looks good and all contingencies are satisfied, we move to the final stage: closing the business sale. Our team, along with a trusted third-party closing attorney or escrow company, will finalize the legal transfer, handle tax clearances and required filings all to ensure you receive the business free and clear of any debt or encumbrance (unless otherwise agreed)