BTB Buyer Guide

Building an Offer to Buy a Business

An acquisition offer is more than a purchase price. It can address what is being purchased, how the price is funded, what must be verified, timing, transition support and conditions that need to be satisfied before closing.

BTB guide · Updated September 30, 2026

Connect the offer to diligence

Offer terms should reflect what is known and what remains unverified. Buyers commonly consider price, cash at closing, lender financing, seller financing, included assets or inventory, working capital, due diligence, financing conditions, approvals, closing timing and seller transition. Legal documents and binding terms should be reviewed by appropriate professionals.

Put the guide to work

Educational information only. Verify transaction, legal, tax, accounting and lending questions with qualified professionals and current source material.

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Business buying guide · SDE explained · Valuation guide · Due diligence · Seller financing · Making an offer