Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the questions that we receive most frequently about our program. If you would like to know something that isn't discussed here, please  contact us by email   and we promise you an immediate response.

I don't have the time or patience to read 500 pages. What do you suggest? 

You do not have to sit and read five-hundred pages. Although self-study requires discipline, we do know that some people find it difficult to remain motivated. Although the material is easy-reading and many clients do go through everything first, it is not necessary and here’s why:

The program is divided into thirty-eight modules that mirror the business buying process. When you want to understand what type of gas station business is right for you, then simply read that module. Before you begin your search, just review the section on "Where to Look". When the time arrives for the meeting with the seller and you want to know what exact questions to ask, then just reference that section of the program where everything is laid our for you. It’s the same with negotiating the deal, valuing a business conduction due diligence, researching the industry, etc.

Plus, you have the added advantage of our expert consultants at your complete disposal. Even if you don’t want to read a single page (although not recommended of course), we’re here to help and successfully guide you through every stage.

Does this material apply to any business purchase?

All of our information is geared for the purchase of any existing business or franchise resale. The concepts presented are based upon real-life experiences with retail operations, distributorships, service related businesses, small manufacturing and on and on. The background research in this program involves literally hundreds of individual business negotiations, investigations and purchase transactions. Our materials have been used successfully by over 10,000 business buyers for every possible business purchase you could imagine, so no matter what type you are considering, from a bakery to an aircraft manufacturing facility, and everything in between, rest assured these strategies will apply.

How long will it take me to complete the full program?

Most people tell us that they finish it all in less than a week; however, you are going to find yourself referring back to certain sections since it's clearly formatted to show you what to do at each different stage of the buying process.

What does the material cover?

In one word - everything. It will literally take you through the entire buying process. You will gain a clear understanding of what business is right for you, and the exact steps that you must take to find and buy it. Furthermore, you'll be equipped with the skills and knowledge that you'll need to make all of the right decisions along the way.

Who will benefit most from the information?

There is no doubt that anyone who has never bought a business before - or those who may have some experience but are less than fluent in the buying process - have the most to gain. We do have a fair number of "experienced" buyers who are always looking for an edge, but the information is written for anyone who does not yet possess the skills or experience needed to navigate their way successfully.

What if I don't like the program or for some reason I decide it's not for me?

No problem! Send it back at anytime for a full and immediate refund. We don't have any deadlines on our money back guarantee policy. We've been in business since 1990 so don't worry about us being around to honor our commitment. Our guarantee is 100% of your money back for any reason whatsoever. No questions asked. No hassles.

What if I need some help later on?

Along with the course, you will be automatically enrolled in our Personal Consultation Program. If you run into any trouble whatsoever, if you need help with a strategy or a certain situation, just let us know and we will provide you with our expert advice and assessment. There's never any charge for this service.

Is the download or CD the same as the printed version?

Yes, it's exactly the same. The only reason that we can sell it for so much less is that we save the entire cost of the printing, the binder, disks, worksheets, inventory, high shipping costs, etc. Also, if you purchase the ebook or CD and then decide you would prefer the hard copy instead, your entire ebook purchase is credited towards your purchase.

How complex are the techniques? 

We don't mean to sound condescending but if you can read, you'll understand everything! The format is laid out in a simple-to-follow, systematic approach. It is not all theory. The examples and case studies will make all of the concepts crystal clear for you. Even the valuation formulas and accounting lesson can be grasped by anyone.  The whole approach to this course and the reason for its success, is due to the fact that it's not "over the top"; it's not geared for a Harvard MBA. It's page after page of proven strategies to use in every situation, and the information is based upon the reader gaining a complete and clear understanding of each stage of the buying process and what has to be done for all of them. Furthermore, the program is based upon a building block technique. Each new section builds upon the previous one and formulates the entire roadmap to success.

Is the information geared strictly for purchasing North America businesses?

Absolutely not. Our programs are followed by people in over 80 countries and regions including: the U.S.A., Canada, Mexico, Germany, Switzerland, Singapore, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, Norway, Belgium, India, Thailand, Mexico, Italy, the Carribean, South America, Finland, the Czech Republic, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. While there may be a slight difference in some terminology (for example, in the UK Business Brokers are known as Business Transfer Agents), the concepts are all the same.

The strategies and philosophies are not specific for any single market or geographical location so no matter where you live, if businesses are bought and sold in your country, you'll be able to take full advantage of all of the information.

What software do I need for the downloads?

The download is compatible for PC or Mac users. The ebook uses Abobe Acrobat Reader and is in a zip, file so Winzip or other file-decompression software is also required. However, most PCs have these built in. If not, Winzip is FREE on the Internet and the download instructions give you a direct link to both. It takes less than 5 minutes to download everything! The download files areformatted to be compatible with Mac Stuffit software.

Can I print from the downloads or CD?

Yes, you can print all or part of it, just like a Word document.

Is the Due Diligence Strategy Guide included with the complete course?

Yes it is. Also, if you purchase the Due Diligence Guide and you decide later on that you would like the full course, we credit your entire purchase towards the new item.

Why buy this program instead of a book about buying a business that may cost less?

We realize that there is no shortage of books on the topic of buying a business. After eighteen years, we've seen or read them all. In fact, these books are the specific reason why we decided to convert our entire consultation business into a home study course. How To Buy A Good Business At A Great Price is definitely not a story book about buying a business.

At your local bookstore you will find three types of books available on this subject. The first ones are geared to both buying and selling a business, with a minimal amount of useful information on each. Our course is focused 100% on the buyer's strategy. Next, you'll see those wonderful publications from the imbecile's series; you know: "The Imbecile's Guide To Buying A Business". With all due respect, you couldn't buy a lemonade stand with the information inside. Lastly, there are those where the information is fine as long as you're an MBA or looking to buy IBM, but they are way beyond and not at all related to the average small business purchase.

Most importantly, not a single resource that we have found actually tells you what you need to know, explains what you must do and then shows you how to do it like our course does. As well, you will be able to receive unlimited personal consulting for any challenges you face. It would be very easy to fill your head with information but what's the point if you don't know how to use it? There isn't a single book, report or video tape on the market that is an actual "how to" strategy guide for buying a business. Is there other information available that may be less expensive? Yes, there is. Then again, the old saying of "you get what you pay for" holds true. Furthermore, we challenge you to find one that comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Is this information good for a franchise purchase?

Our position on franchises is very simple; we believe that under the right circumstances, they are a wonderful option. However, we also know based upon all of our experience, that you are far better off to buy a franchise resale, one that's already successful instead of looking to build a new one. For this, our course is ideal. If you are 100% committed to buying a new franchise and nothing but, then this course is not for you.

Regarding Due Diligence, franchises require a whole different checklist of what must be investigated. That is why they are dealt with extensively in both the full course and the Due Diligence Checklist and Strategy Guide.