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 West Richland 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. Federal and Washington guidelines are used in the process of due diligence, and not following these guidelines can lead to legal consequences. 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?

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

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