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 Quincy 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. A complete picture of the financial position of the business is important for the purchaser to make his decision. This picture is acquired through a process called "due diligence". Federal and Washington guidelines are used in the process of due diligence, and not using these guidelines can lead to legal consequences. Following the process of due diligence dutifully is the best way to inform oneself for whether to purchase a business. Also if the business is eventually bought, transfers of ownership happen much more easily once the process is followed.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

The price of a business depends on the value of the ownership stake that is necessary to exert control, and this in turn is determined somewhat by the value of the business property and the type of business. 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 Quincy Attorney Help?

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