Buyers Guide for Realty in USA

Many British people have been extremely successful in operating businesses in America; they are very happy, have done a lot better than had been the case in Britain and have truly discovered the land of opportunity. On the flip side, there are some who have found things very different, struggled and lost a lot of money. All too often you are not given all the essential facts of a business, as it is taken for granted that you have the same knowledge as an American buyer would have.

It is imperative to find a good business broker, unfortunately, as is life, there are a number of individuals and companies both in Britain and America, waiting for the opportunity to take advantage of your American dream and sell you a business that is not what it first seems.

Smooth-talking, glossy brochures and a few unrealistic examples of businesses for sale are NOT a guarantee that you are being given all the correct and relevant facts and figures. I have seen evidence of some irresponsible and downright dishonest individuals whilst here and the heartache they cause. Always be skeptical, and always make certain the financial accounts you examine are the ones used for tax records.

For example, I know of British clients who purchased a perfectly good business and needed to register the employees' liability and health insurance under their own names for the business. As they were newly arrived in the USA, with no American track record, the premiums were substantially increased. Indeed, it took a few weeks of sorting out before coverage could even be obtained, without which they could not employ staff. In another case involving a franchise operation, not only were there three sets of books, but the specific franchise operation the clients were shown was totally dependent, on a different branch of the franchise a few miles away!

It is important that the businesses you are considering satisfy a number of criteria:- They should be able to satisfy the American government agency (INS), which will determine if they meet all the necessary criteria to grant you the necessary visas. If they do not, all your time, effort and money will be wasted. The INS will consider the merits of each business in relation to whether it complies with any requirements to employ American staff, and whether it can provide enough income to more than economically provide for you and your family. Every business will have slightly different variables.

T he business must be able to provide you with the income and future potential to meet your American aspirations. It is therefore desirable to work closely with a specialist business broker in the area of your choice to obtain a detailed, in depth picture of the business. However much you succeeded in Britain, it is important to bear in mind that despite the common language, America is a very different kettle of fish. Certain British business practices will not automatically work in America. However, other aspects of British business practices can give you an inbuilt advantage in the American market. Again, it is important to take advice on this.