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 Whatcom 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. 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. Federal and Washington guidelines are used in the process of due diligence, and not using these guidelines can lead to legal consequences. However, due diligence will lead to a better informed decision concerning whether you want to purchase the business. Also, it will help the business to transition more smoothly to new ownership.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

Control of a business is sold for an amount that is necessary for a party to acquire an ownership stake. The value of the business property and the type of business factor in to determine the exact price. 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 Whatcom County Attorney Help?

The laws in Washington place many unique demands on parties seeking to purchase businesses. An attorney in Whatcom County, Washington can inform you of the particularities of your investment as it relates to local law, as well as advise you of the least costly route to acquiring control.