What Questions To Ask When Buying A Small Business (2026)

You don't want the seller opening a identical shop across the street two months later.

Verify that the numbers reported to the IRS match what the seller is claiming in the listing. what questions to ask when buying a small business

Look for red flags like a new competitor moving in, a declining industry, or pending legal issues. You don't want the seller opening a identical

If the business is brick-and-mortar, ensure the lease is transferable and check for any upcoming rent hikes. a declining industry