Looking to buy or sell a business in the UK? This comprehensive list of the 100 most frequently asked questions covers everything you need to know—from finding the right business and securing financing to navigating legal requirements, due diligence, and post-purchase operations. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, experienced entrepreneur, or international investor, these FAQs address key topics such as valuations, tax implications, employee transfers (TUPE), franchises, and distressed business opportunities. Ideal for anyone considering business ownership, this guide provides essential insights to help you make informed decisions and successfully complete your transaction in the UK business market.
🏢 General Questions About Buying a Business
- How do I buy a business in the UK?
- What are the first steps to buying a business?
- Where can I find businesses for sale in the UK?
- Is it better to buy a franchise or an independent business?
- What types of businesses are commonly for sale in the UK?
- What’s the difference between buying assets vs shares?
- How much money do I need to buy a business?
- Can I get a loan to buy a business in the UK?
- Do I need to be a UK resident to buy a UK business?
- What sectors are most popular for business buyers in the UK?
💼 Due Diligence & Evaluation
- What is due diligence when buying a business?
- What documents should I request from the seller?
- How do I know if a business is profitable?
- How do I value a small business?
- What are key red flags in a business sale?
- What legal checks should I do?
- Should I hire an accountant for due diligence?
- How can I verify the business’s customer base?
- How do I assess liabilities and debts?
- What is a confidentiality agreement/NDA?
📑 Legal and Contracts
- What is a business sale agreement?
- What are heads of terms?
- What is a non-compete clause?
- Should I use a solicitor when buying a business?
- What legal structure should I buy (sole trader, ltd company)?
- How is ownership officially transferred?
- Who handles lease assignments?
- What is TUPE and how does it affect employees?
- Do I inherit business liabilities?
- What legal obligations come with taking over a business?
💰 Financing and Costs
- What are the typical costs when buying a business?
- Can I get government grants to buy a business?
- How does seller financing work?
- Can I use my pension to buy a business (SIPP/SSAS)?
- Are there tax implications in buying a business?
- What is stamp duty on a business purchase?
- Can I get bank financing to buy a business?
- How do I raise capital for a business acquisition?
- What role do business brokers play in pricing?
- Can I negotiate the asking price?
🏭 Types of Businesses
- What are the best businesses to buy in the UK in 2025?
- Are online businesses easier to buy and run?
- Is it wise to buy a pub or café in the UK?
- Should I buy a retail shop or an e-commerce store?
- Are service-based businesses better for beginners?
- What are the risks of buying a seasonal business?
- Can I buy a business from administration?
- What’s the difference between a going concern and liquidation sale?
- Can I buy a franchise resale?
- Are there ethical businesses or social enterprises for sale?
🧑💼 Working with Professionals
- Should I use a business broker?
- How do I find a trustworthy broker?
- What does a commercial solicitor do?
- Do I need a tax adviser?
- What are accountants responsible for during a sale?
- Should I consult a financial planner?
- Can a business coach help during a purchase?
- What do surveyors or valuers do?
- What role does Companies House play?
- Do I need an employment lawyer?
🏢 Operational Questions Post-Purchase
- How do I take over staff and management?
- Do I have to retain existing employees?
- How do I change suppliers or contracts?
- Can I rebrand the business immediately?
- How long should I keep the previous owner involved?
- How do I notify customers about the change?
- What happens to existing customer contracts?
- Do I need new business insurance?
- How do I update HMRC and Companies House?
- Should I change the business bank account?
🔄 Selling Your Business
- How do I sell my business?
- How do I value my business for sale?
- What documents do I need to prepare?
- Can I sell without a broker?
- What is the best time to sell a business?
- How long does it take to sell a business?
- What taxes do I pay when selling my business?
- Can I sell to my employees?
- What is an MBO (Management Buy-Out)?
- What is an EOT (Employee Ownership Trust)?
🧾 Franchise-Specific Questions
- What is a franchise resale?
- Are franchises safer to buy than independent businesses?
- How much control do I have as a franchisee?
- Do I need approval from the franchisor?
- What ongoing fees are involved?
- Can I sell a franchise business later?
- What’s the typical ROI on a franchise?
- Are franchise businesses easier to finance?
🌍 International Buyers
- Can a foreigner buy a UK business?
- Do I need a visa to run a business in the UK?
- Will buying a business help with a UK visa?
- Can I buy a UK business from abroad?
- What taxes apply to international buyers?
- Is it harder to get financing as a non-UK resident?
📉 Troubled or Distressed Businesses
- What are the risks of buying a distressed business?
- How can I turn around a failing business?
- Can I buy a business out of administration?
- What is a pre-pack sale?
- How do I assess turnaround potential?
- Can I negotiate with creditors before buying?
