Rating Buyer Seriousness
Use the following criteria to separate the serious buyers from window-shoppers. (Add up plus points, subtract minus points. The serious buyer will rate a 6 or above.)
Minus Point Factors
-4 needs outside financing (excluding home equity)
-4 been looking for 6 months or more
-3 no available cash
-3 still working in corporate world
-2 spouse not supportive of buying a business
-2 uses a legal pad or clipboard and takes too many notes
-2 feels leisurely about finding the "just-right" business
-1 now renting (although has lived in area for some time)
-1 under 25 or over 62
Plus Point Factors
+3 does not have a job or has just resigned
+3 understands that books and records are not only indicators of value
+2 has enough money to buy a business
+2 no dependents
+2 family member or close relative has been a business owner
+2 willing to take the time to look without a lot of notice
+1 location is not a prime consideration
+1 age 21 to 62
+1 skilled worker or professional
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