Weighing Your Options: Start a New Business or Buy an Existing One

Updated December 2023

A new year is on the horizon. If owning your own business is one of your goals for 2024, then it’s valuable to sit down and weigh your options. After all, about 50% of businesses fail in the first five years. While it’s certainly not impossible to start your own company, it is incredibly valuable to understand your options and the risks associated. In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of business purchases vs. business startups. Read on to determine if you’re better suited to start a new business or buy an existing one.

What’s Right for You? Determining Whether to Start a New Business or Buy an Existing One

When you picture business ownership, you likely imagine dreaming up a brand new concept and brand. While it’s certainly possible to build a business from the ground up, numerous aspects work against you with a new startup. For many, purchasing an existing business can be just as satisfying, with less risk involved. Ensure that you understand the risks and benefits of these different paths.

Starting a Business

Do you want to do something in a way that’s never been done before? If you relish the thought of building something independently and holding ownership of every aspect of your business, then a startup may be the right choice for you. This option can also sometimes allow you to keep things on the cheaper side. Opting for a home-based business or slowly scaling up your side hustle can keep your startup costs more manageable.

Of course, the downsides of starting your own business are relatively well known. You’re building something new, which means you don’t have an established customer base or brand recognition to fall back on. Plus, when you do need financing options for your new business, it can be harder to gain approval without a track record of proven success and cash flow. There are numerous challenges and potential problems that can derail a new startup.

Buying an Existing Business

If you’re eager to step into a leadership role and be your own boss, you may be better suited to hit the ground running with an existing company. The first step is usually to determine what type of business suits your interests, skill set, and lifestyle. Once you have a general idea of what you’re looking for, you can start browsing businesses for sale.

Purchasing an established business requires more capital upfront. Still, it’s generally a faster process to success because you’re able to skip some of the learning curve involved in starting a business. Whether you’re taking on a successful small business with a proven track record, or know that you have what it takes to turn around a company that’s struggled to adapt after the pandemic, there are numerous rewards to purchasing. The existing customer base and brand allow you to get started on day one.

You’ll want to go into ownership with a clear picture of your long-term goals and business plan, and you should still be prepared for some bumps in the transition period. However, for many business owners, these challenges hold significantly less risk than starting new. For many, the positives of purchasing an existing business outweigh the negatives.

If you’re considering entering into business ownership this year, the professionals at Sunbelt Business Brokers are here to help. As the world’s largest business brokerage firm, we can help you find a rewarding opportunity as a new owner. Contact your local Sunbelt office today for expert guidance!