Buying a business requires more than money. Learn which professionals should be on your acquisition team, including a broker, CPA, attorney and lender.

1. Business Broker

The broker helps identify opportunities, negotiate and coordinate the transaction.

2. CPA

Your CPA helps analyze financial information and tax implications.

3. Transactional Attorney

Business transactions require specialized legal work.

4. Lender

If you’re financing, get the lender involved early.

5. Insurance Professional

Understand what insurance you’ll need after closing.

6. Financial Advisor

Your acquisition needs to fit your overall financial picture.

7. Industry Expert

Sometimes an expert can identify operational issues you won’t see.

8. Payroll/HR Professional

Employees are a major part of many Main Street businesses.

9. Environmental or Technical Specialists

Some businesses require specialized inspections.

10. You

Ultimately, you’re the person taking the risk.

Your team advises you.

You make the decision.

I’ve written about this in [Step 3: Put Your Team Together]. Put Your Acquisition Team Together

Michael Shea represents the Tampa Florida Transworld office. In business since 2005, he has established a reputation as a trusted business broker across Florida’s key markets- from Tampa to Orlando, Melbourne, and more. Over the past two decades, Michael and his team have closed over $1 Billion in sold business volume and presided over more than 476 transactions. His credentials include the IBBA Certified Business Intermediary®, and most recently, the prestigious Certified Exit Planning Advisor® (CEPA) credential. He is also a Florida Licensed Real Estate Broker and Business Brokers of Florida Board Certified Intermediary . Shea is a member of the VRMA and a recognized expert in property management and vacation rental management business sales