Owning a business with your family has its ups and downs. When you’re in the process of buying a business alongside your parents, siblings, or extended family, it isn’t abnormal to get confused or frustrated. If you’re interested in learning more about how to buy a business with your family, while also keeping your sanity, just continue reading.
The first step you should make when buying a business with your family is establishing business relationships. Make sure to set clear boundaries between you and your family members from day one. Separating personal family matters from professional business matters is an important first step in buying a business and staying sane.
The next step you want to take is defining ownership interest. In other words, decide how much each family member intends to invest. Whoever puts the most money into the business will become the primary owner, and everyone else will rank based on the amount of money they invested. This makes it easy to decide who owns what aspects of the business.
Families should consider putting everything in writing when it comes to handling their new business purchase. It’s nice to have something you can look back on, just to make sure everyone is holding up their end of the bargain. Families should also consider seeking outside advice for potential conflicts or disagreements. Family members may be biased, so getting a fresh perspective can keep tensions lower and keep things fair.
Working with your family may be stressful at times, but it can also be fun and rewarding. As your family prepares to buy a business, seek our help at Hallmark Business Brokers. You can reach us by phone at 941-445-4726, or visit us at 230 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 2, in Venice, Florida.