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.

Specific 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 Steilacoom is actually the buying 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. 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. Through due diligence, federal and Washington guidelines are used to inform both parties, and there may be legal consequences for not following these guidelines properly. Following the process of due diligence faithfully, however, leads to a better informed decision about the purchase of the business. It can also help the ownership transfer to go more smoothly.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

How much the right of control will cost depends on how much ownership stake is required. The value of the property of the business may add to the price as well. The process for how the right of control can be transferred or modified is defined by specific laws in Washington. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a Steilacoom Attorney Help?

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