Beyond the price itself and our fee, buying a business brings other costs. Budget for them early, because they need paying around completion.
Your advisers
- Solicitor: for the sale agreement, the due diligence and the lender's documents.
- Accountant: for financial due diligence, tax and the deal structure.
- Other specialists, where needed, such as property surveyors or valuers.
The lender's costs
- Arrangement fee: charged by the lender for setting up the facility.
- Valuation fees, for property or assets used as security.
- The lender's legal fees, which buyers often pay.
Taxes
- Stamp duty on a share purchase, or property tax where property is bought. See Is there stamp duty when you buy a business?.
- VAT, unless an asset purchase qualifies as a transfer of a going concern. See Is there VAT on buying a business? Transfer of a going concern.
Our fee
Our advisory fee is set out in the engagement letter. See How much does bizbritain charge for acquisition finance?.
After completion
Keep enough cash in the business for working capital once the deal is done. See Can I buy a business with no money down?.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026