Before you buy, restaurant business purchases require that you make several decisions, such as where do you want to open the business, whether to buy an independent business or a corporate franchise and how much capital you have available for the purchase. Restaurant business location is important to investigate so that you know your competition. You won't want to open a small restaurant too close to a national chain that provides the same type of food.

When you set forth to buy a restaurant business, be prepared to spend a lot of time, money and effort. You must be certain the restaurant business opportunity you are considering is right for you before getting started. There are many things to consider first, including:

1. The expenses you will be faced with, such as purchasing fees, marketing costs, royalties and inventory;

2. Determining if the restaurant business for sale has a name or brand that is well recognized by the community;

3. How many employees will need to be hired and trained for the facility;

4. Whether you will make the purchase directly or utilize the services of a restaurant business broker.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out franchisors that offer restaurant business sales

Buying a franchise offers several advantages over starting up a new food service business. An established chain will already have a well-known name and brand, a business plan that is continually tested and improved to ensure success and ongoing support from the franchisor. The company that created the franchise will have already done all of the ground work for the restaurant, which gives you an easier start.

I recommend: Look into restaurant franchises like Jimmy John’s, Great Wraps, Teriyaki Experience and Charley´s Grilled Subs.

Get help from a lawyer who specializes in restaurant business sales

Business lawyers will explain all the details of any contract you must sign for the seller, make sure you understand your rights as a buyer and explain all the legal obligations you will have following the purchase of your own business.

I recommend: Receive business law advice from Fuerst Humphrey Ittleman and franchise law help from Williams Law, P.C.

Sell a restaurant business

People who already own a restaurant may reach a point when they are ready to sell their business. They can turn to websites that help small business owners sell their establishments. These sites work as a restaurant business brokerage and help to connect buyers with sellers so they can process their transaction.

I recommend: List your restaurant on Business Nation or BizBuySell.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with the Better Business Bureau for detailed information about the restaurant business for sale you are thinking of purchasing.
• •  Investigate whether restaurant franchises are regulated by your state government.
• •  Hire a certified public accountant who will check out the financial history of any food related business you are considering, explain the expenses that would be involved and help you work out your annual earning potential.
• •  Consider working with a restaurant business broker who will assist you in finding and purchasing a restaurant.