I entered the due diligence period, and I have until December 31st to back out. This is my first business purchase, and I want to make sure I am making a good decision. Here is some information over the business. Established in 2013. Over 300 Google reviews (4.5 stars). In 2023, approx $6m in revenue, $1.5m in A/R. currently showing negative $100K loss ( $1.4m net if all A/R is collected). The business has 14 employees.
The purchase price is $1m + $75K from A/R.
The owner says he is selling because he wants to focus on real estate and will sign 3 year non-compete.
A way I can see improving the business is by trimming the unnecessary expenses (currently $270K per month) and focusing on keeping A/R account low.
Does anyone have any experience or advice in purchasing a business for the first time, or in roofing/ construction? What are the most important questions I need to ask the current owner? Are there any red flags I should be aware of?
This is a huge decision and I am looking for any advice or guidance!
It sounds like the business has cash flow issues already, as they have $1.5 million in A/R. I’m assuming you plan on using a SBA loan to finance the purchase, that’s going to be about a $12k a month payment you will have to make. I would really dive into the numbers with an accountant to make sure the cash flow works.
You aren’t really getting much for $1 million. The business is a couple of trucks, a GMB profile, and some employees. If you have never ran a roofing business before, there’s a chance the employees will leave and start competing businesses. If you haven’t ran a roofing business before, there’s a chance you will make mistakes and get some negative reviews (hurting the GMB profile).
Buying a business, especially with debt, is life-changing. You can buy a great business, survive, and end up years/decades ahead than starting from scratch. Or you buy a not-so-great business, go bankrupt, and end up losing your house and reputation.
Unfortunately, I think most roofing businesses fall into the 2nd category.
You are correct. Definitely some cash flow problems. I really want to understand why that is. And see if there is a way to help that.
It can’t be really good or really bad. I’m trying to do as much investigating as possible. I know the owner has a small role in day to day operations. But you’re right. 1mm basically is getting me the reviews, reputation, trucks and employees.