Buying a Business in Washington

The investing in a business can be the fastest route to a great return. Individuals and companies hoping to buy businesses should be aware of the complications that can arise, however.

Particular regulations concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations or securities exchanges may be implicated when you buy a business. These areas are all governed by Federal and Washington law.

What Parts of the Business Am I Buying?

The purchase of a business in King County is actually the purchasing of a right called "control". With this right, a party can direct business operations as it sees fit, it acquires ownership of business assets, and it assumes liability for all business debts. To balance the positives and negatives, the party buying a business must get a complete picture of the financial position of the business. Through a process called "due diligence", a buyer acquires this understanding. Federal and Washington guidelines define the process of due diligence, and occasionally legal consequences arise when these procedures are not followed properly. However, the best informed decision about whether to buy the business can only be obtained through obedience to the due diligence process. Added benefits also include a smoother transition once the business is bought.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

How much a business will cost varies on the type of business, how much ownership stake you need to assert control, and the value of the business property. The procedure for how the right of control can be transferred or modified is defined by particular laws in Washington. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a King County Attorney Help?

There are unique requirements in Washington that a party purchasing a business must fulfill. In King County, an attorney experienced in Washington law can inform you about the peculiarities of your investment and outline the cheapest way for you to gain control.