Buying a Business in Maine

Investing in a business can be advantageous for companies and private parties. The transaction can be complicated, however.

Federal and Maine law concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchange sometimes come into play during the purchase of a business

What Parts of the Business Am I Buying?

A buyer of a business in Falmouth gains a right called "control", which is the right to direct the business operations as they see fit. Control involves ownership of the business assets and customers, along with the company's debts. Accordingly, the party buying a business will want a complete picture of the financial position of the business. Through a process called "due diligence", the financials of the company are disclosed. The process of due diligence uses Federal and Maine guidelines to protect both parties. If these guidelines are not followed, a party may be found in breach of a legal duty. However, due diligence will lead to a better informed decision concerning whether you want to buy the business. Also, it will help the business to transition more smoothly to new ownership.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

Control of a business is sold for an amount that is necessary for a party to acquire an ownership stake. The value of the business property and the type of business factor in to determine the exact price. The process for how the right of control can be transferred or modified is defined by specific laws in Maine. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a Falmouth Attorney Help?

In Maine, the law poses requirements for a party purchasing a business to fulfill. An attorney knowledgeable in Maine law practicing in Falmouth can help you comply with these laws and acquire control of the business you want to buy as cheaply as possible.