Buying a Business in Washington

The investing in a business can be the quickest route to a great return. Individuals and companies looking 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 University Place 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. Accordingly, the party purchasing 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. 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?

The cost of a business mostly depends on how much ownership stake is required for control. The value of the business property and the type of business are also important factors. There are particular laws in Washington that dictate procedure for how the right of control of a company can be transferred and modified, and these procedures may make buying the business cheaper or more expensive, depending on a variety of factors.

How Can a University Place Attorney Help?

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