"Interestingly, koi, when put in a fish bowl, will only grow up to three inches. When this same fish is placed in a large tank, it will grow to about nine inches long. In a pond koi can reach lengths of eighteen inches. Amazingly, when placed in a lake, koi can grow to three feet long. The metaphor is obvious. You are limited by how you see the world."
-- Vince Poscente

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Slumdog

For those of you who haven't seen Slumdog yet, my best advice is watch it!!! It is indeed a compelling story. Its success does demonstrate again that we do live in a time of an emerging global economy.

Check out the comments from the Times of India
Nikhat Kazmi writing in The Times of India:
Forget the twitter about aggrieved national sentiment. For Slumdog Millionaire is neither poverty porn nor slum tourism… No Slumdog is just a piece of riveting cinema, meant to be savoured as a Cinderella-like fairy tale, with the edge of a thriller and the vision of an artist. It was never meant to be a documentary on the down and out… And it isn't.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Owner's Cash Flow: The Keystone of an Analysis of A Business

If you get five "experts" on business valuation in a room and give them a business to "value" you will probably get 5 wildly varying opinions as to the worth of the business. Business valuation is an art not a science. The bottom line is that a business is only worth what it will bring on the market. The tricky part is determining where the "market" is at in regard to that particular business. There are indeed "flavors of the month" as the popularity of certain types of businesses ebbs and flows. Among the many factors to look at the keystone of an analysis of a business is "owners cash flow" which can be simply described as what the owner of the business is taking out of the business directly or indirectly or the total sum of all the economic benefits which are derived from the ownership of the business. Sometimes it takes a little detective work to find out what this true number may be as often tax returns are adjusted for tax minimization. Typically cash flow is determined by adding together Owner's direct compensation + owner's benefits (direct and indirect), depreciation, amortization, interest, non-recurring expenses, plus net income. The sums of these numbers will give you a good starting point in determining the economic benefit being derived from owning that particular business.

Monday, February 23, 2009

SBA Readies Emergency Biz Loans

SBA readies emergency biz loans
Agency has 15 days to create guidelines for $255 million emergency lending initiative approved by Congress.

By Stacy Cowley, small business editor

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Small businesses owners struggling to keep up with their bills may see some relief from a new $255 million emergency loan program authorized this week as part of the economic recovery bill.

Congress is pushing for the money to start flowing fast: It gave the Small Business Administration just 15 days to issue guidelines for the brand-new program.
Called the Business Stabilization Program, the initiative will offer loans of up to $35,000 that are essentially interest-free. The loans will only be available to companies that already have bank-issued business loans - Congress wants the new loans to be used to make interest payments and pay down principal on existing debt.

The loans can be used to make payments for up to six months, and no repayment on them will be due for a year. Businesses must fully repay their stabilization loan within five years.
The loans won't be coming directly from the SBA. Instead, the agency will offer a 100% guarantee - something it has never done before - to banks that issue the loans. If the business owner defaults, the SBA will pay off the debt.

The SBA will also fully subsidize the interest on the loans for their entire duration, making them low-cost for business owners and largely risk-free for banks.
Entrepreneurs ready to race out and apply for a loan will need to be patient a bit longer, though. Faced with a tight deadline to create an entirely new program, the SBA is still working out the details.

"We want to get everything in the bill in place as quickly as we can," said SBA spokesman Mike Stamler. "We're doing the best we can."

The SBA hasn't started discussions with banks about how the program will work, but lenders expressed cautious optimism that it will help strapped small businesses.

"We have plenty of customers that would be interested in that type of loan," said Michael Downes, chief lending officer of Unity Bancorp (UNTY) in Clinton, N.J. "We just have to guard against throwing good money after bad."

Rising defaults
Unity issued more than 150 SBA-backed 7(a) loans last year, totaling $73 million. But like many SBA lenders, it curtailed its lending after the economy's sharp deterioration at the end of 2008. Instead of extending loans throughout the East Coast, the bank is now focusing only on its immediate geographic area around New York and New Jersey.

Defaults and delinquencies have increased as borrowers struggle to keep up with their bills, Downes said.

One Georgia Bank in Atlanta became an SBA lender less than a year ago, in April. In its first six months in the program, it issued 14 loans. So far, none of those loans has gone late on payments, but President Chuck Lewis said he sees demand among business customers for options that will free up cash and give them flexibility with their bills.

"Any time there's a facility available for a small business owner to help them meet payroll or help them expand their cash flow, it's going to be a positive for that small business owner," he said.

The SBA is working to create the new program with fairly vague guidance from Congress and without a permanent leader in place. A confirmation hearing for President Obama's nominee as the agency's administrator, Karen Gordon Mills, has not yet been scheduled. In past presidential transitions, the SBA spot has gone unfilled until April or later.

Since Obama's inauguration, 30-year SBA veteran Darryl Hairston has been running the agency as its acting administrator.

The SBA's spokesman said the agency is scrambling to make policy and logistics decisions as soon as possible to begin implementing the array of new initiatives authorized in the stimulus bill signed by the president Tuesday.

The bill allocated millions in additional funding for several existing SBA programs, including the agency's microloan initiative and its flagship loan guarantee programs.

Ramping up those already-running programs to expand their capacity will be easier, Stamler said, than building structures for the two wholly new initiatives Congress created, the stabilization loans program and a new secondary market guarantee authority.

However, those two new programs are the ones Congress wants action on the quickest. It gave the SBA less than three weeks to issue emergency regulations for each.

For the stabilization loans, Congress allocated $255 million to fund the program through September 2010. Since that amount covers only the costs and subsides of the program, it can be used to fund several billion in total loan volume; the SBA is still working out the formulas to calculate how far the cash will stretch.

Only banks already certified to participate in the SBA's loan guarantee programs will be eligible to make stabilization loans. But the agency expects the loans themselves to be available to any small business customer at participating banks, regardless of whether or not the customer's existing loan was actually made through the SBA's guarantee program. (To find out whether your bank is an SBA lender, click here and go to the SBA's resource page for your geographic area.)

As the SBA pulls together its guidelines, lenders and business owners are eager to tap the new line of capital.

"One of the reasons that we were proactive in getting involved in the SBA was because we saw the economy beginning to weaken," said One Georgia Bank's Lewis. "Any time the economy weakens, it's going to be the small businesses that will lead the country out of an economic spiral."

Friday, February 20, 2009

Employee Theft - Trusted Employee is an Oxymoron

Being in daily contact with a wide variety of business owners, I am hearing increasing stories of "trusted" employees ripping off their business owners. Some of the schemes have been going on for years and involve significant sums of money. The downtown in the economy has resulted in more and more owners taking a close look at their expenses and business practices. The deeper they look for ways to cut costs and examine their expenses, employee theft has often been exposed. During goods times many owners turned a blind eye to employee theft with the attitude that it was bound to happen but it just needed to stay within "acceptable limits". With declining sales and increased expenses many owners are forced to adopt a "zero tolerance" policy in order to keep their business afloat during these troubled economic times. I have heard of many instances where discovered losses have exceeded six figures--if a business owner hasn't done their own loss prevention analysis--now is the time! Hint: "trusted employee" is indeed an oxymoron.

Larry Battershell Named Industry Expert!

The 2009 Business Reference Guide "The Essential Guide to Pricing Businesses and Franchises", 19th Edition, has named Larry Battershell an "Industry Expert" in 'Bars' and 'Restaurants, Limited Service'.

The guide is the premier source of business valuation information in the business broker industry.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Major Changes in SBA Financing

a) Goodwill:

(1) If the purchase price of the business includes goodwill (or “blue sky”), the lender should explore seller-financing with a subordinate lien to the SBA-guaranteed loan.

(2) The lender may finance a limited amount of goodwill. In no event may the amount of goodwill financed by an SBA guaranteed loan exceed 50% of the loan amount up to a maximum of $250,000.

(3) If any of the loan proceeds will be used to finance goodwill, the amount must be specifically identified in the Use of Proceeds section of the Authorization.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Location, Location, Location?

It is an axiom that in retail it is location, location, location that breeds success for a business. However location is just one part of the equation, of equal or more importance is marketing,marketing, marketing. In this day of economic challenges I think a more accurate description is promotion, promotion, promotion of the business in cheap and creative ways. Carefully examine the ways in which advertising dollars are being spent and that a good return on investment is indeed being realized. Satisfied customers and word of mouth are still the cheapest form and most effective form of advertising. Capturing of customers e-mails and loyalty programs can be effective and inexpensive tools. Spend more time in employee training and education to insure that each customer has a good experience. In a down turning economy there is an increasing supply of truly qualified employees--no excuse except owner laziness not to take advantage of this economic reality and upgrade staffing, if necessary.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Getting Busy - Buying a Business

This quote from Bill O'Reilly illustrates one of the many reasons why someone should consider buying a business. Over my 20 plus years I have seen numerous examples of many people who got busy and dramatically improved their economic situation by buying a small business.

For all of its faults, it gives most hardworking people a chance to improve themselves economically, even as the deck is stacked in favor of the privileged few. Here are the choices most of us face in such a system: Get bitter or get busy. ~Bill O'Reilly, about capitalism

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Small Businesses Stifled by Drop in SBA Loans

Submitted by Don Sniegowski on Tue, 2009/02/03 - 01:22


WASHINGTON (Blue MauMau) - Small Business Administration loans have been shriveling up, and not just of late. SBA 7(a) loans have plummeted from 2005's $15.4 million down to $12.8 in 2008, with the trend accelerating during the present credit crunch. Through early January in this fiscal year that began October 1, 2008 for the SBA, 7(a) loans plummeted 56 percent compared to the same period in the prior year.

What's going on?

According to an industry expert, one reason is that small business demand for SBA loans has evaporated.

Mark J. Weiss, CEO of LeaseWise, LLC, a provider of small business funding solutions, states, "People are afraid to invest in new businesses. They're taking a wait and see attitude while watching other businesses close up." Perhaps, he feels, investors would rather sit on the funds they still have, in case they need a personal reserve for other purposes. Perhaps the impact on their 401K is making them feel less secure. With housing values crashing, the collateral value to support loan requests isn't what it used to be.

But there's an even bigger problem besides skittish business buyers. "Many lenders have pulled out of SBA lending altogether — whether it's secondary market issues or risk management, the result is the same,” adds Weiss.

Chris Hurn, chief executive officer of Mercantile Commercial Capital, a lending institute specializing in SBA 504 real estate and equipment loans, agrees. "SBA loans normally take off in a recession, but this time around SBA lending has not taken off, mainly because of other issues relating to banks which are outside the SBA's realm.".....cont.

To view the rest of this article please click HERE...

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Indiana Restaurant Association and Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers

When looking to buy a business it is often a very good idea to check out various trade associations. In the bar and restaurant industry in Indiana two very good groups which provide excellent information on industry trends, pending legislation and news are:
Indiana Restaurant Association and Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers. Links to both have been placed on this site. In looking to buy a specific business or franchise--google!!!! It's amazing what you can find out about a franchisor if you google "franchisee complaints".

Friday, February 6, 2009

Larry's Fantastic February Spotlight

HOT NEW LISTINGS!

#A-N807 Popular Pub/Restuarant: Opened in 2002, this pub/restaurant is known for its attractive setting, friendly atmosphere and family dining. It is located in a fast growing Indianapolis suburb. It easily seats 70 people and has a large parking lot to accommodate them. It has a nice bar, an outdoor patio and currently allows smoking. It carries a 3-way (209) liquor license. It is open Monday-Sunday. Sales are 70% from food and 30% from liquor. Rev: $821K Ask: $300K

#E-N806 Pick-Up & Drop-Off Dry Cleaners: This busy dry cleaning business is a well known pick-up and drop-off location in a growing area of Suburban south side Indy. It is located at a busy well-known intersection in a strip mall with a major grocery store. There is no competition located in the immediate vicinity, and this cleaners has been at this location for eight years. The cleaners include a delivery service and has recently added an alteration service. This is a great opportunity for a synergistic dry cleaner with a plant of their own to step in and immediately enjoy steady revenues. Rev: $136K Ask: $40K

#C-N796 Gourmet Restuarant/Wine Bar: This unique gourmet restaurant and wine bar is one-of-a kind in Hamilton County. This establishment is well known for its upscale nightlife promoting a unique retail concept blending wine, art, food and entertainment. Several thousand dollars and hundreds of hours of work were spent to completely renovate the restaurant, using the original floors, walls and ceilings of the 150 year old building. This place is spectacular and must be seen to be appreciated! Ask: $125K

#C-N789 Very Profitable Restaurant: Very profitable, high volume, buffet-style restaurant. Consistent top performer of the entire franchise system. Currently managed absentee. Strong management team in place. Rev: $2.6M CF: $236K

#L-N784 Tool & Die Manufacturer: Specialty company in the tool and die industry. They design and build special gauges, machines, gages, tools, jugs, dies, fixtures and stampings. They are experienced in automotive and aircraft industries. Rev: $1M CF: $157K

Retail

#I-N795 Neighborhood Liquor Store: This liquor store, which has been in business for over 40 years, is located on a high traffic street. It is also near a sports venue. It currently operates from 9am-12am, Monday through Saturday. Some amenities are a seven (7) door cooler and a 217 package liquor license. It's easy to run & operate. Rev: $400K+ Ask: $350K

#I-N778 Absentee Retail Opportunity: Long established retail store specializing in lighting and home décor. This is not only a fantastic opportunity to own your own business in home retail, but it is currently run semi-absentee with an excellent manager in place. Customers included the general public and designers. There is a strong customer base as they have been in business for a long time and have an excellent reputation. A new hands-on owner could take advantage of a long standing, excellent reputation and actively manage, market and grow the business. Rev: $772,290 CF: $141,893 Ask: $228k

#I-N765 GNC Franchise: GNC is the largest global specialty retailer of nutritional products; including vitamin, mineral, herbal and other specialty supplements and sports nutrition, diet and energy products. They are dedicated to helping you Live Well. Rev: $512,496 CF: $93k Ask: $250k

#I-N755 Liquid Petroleum Gas Co.: This Liquid Petroleum Gas company has been serving Southwestern Indiana since 2002 and has developed a large customer base. The company's primary customer is retail customers who count on liquid propane to heat their homes. The business's low overhead allows the company to be price competitive in the market place. The business has grown significantly since it was established in 2002. Sales for 2008 are projected to reach $1m!Rev: $701,560 (thru Oct. 08) CF: $91k (thru Oct. 08)

#I-N742 Pool Sales & Installation Co. w/ Retail Store: This business is a full service sales, installation and retail pool business. With over a 1000 pool installations and renovations, they also have a full retail store selling spas, above ground pools, fireplaces, high-end casual furniture and all water care products. The company has won numerous National and Regional awards for pool and spa design and installation. This incredible opportunity has been established for over 30 years by the same owner/operators. A must see and a turnkey operation! Rev: $2.453M CF: $147K Ask: $525K

#I-N736 Small Town Hardware Store: This long established and well known hardware store has been in business for 28 years. It has a strong local customer base. It sells general hardware products with some equipment rental offered. It comes with an attractive lease. It is ideal for an owner/operator. Priced to sell! Rev: $300K Ask: $120K

#I-N699 Custom Screen Printing & Embroidery Retail Store: This store has become an anchor in its community for close to 20 years. Providing custom personalized screen printing and custom embroidery on most any items. The retail store has available sporting goods, equipment and apparel for all sports. This store is well known for its great service and friendly staff. Rev: $396K CF: $70K Ask: $175K

#I-N694 Home Décor Business: Well established home décor business founded over 50 years ago. The business caters to both retail clientele and designers, and specializes in wall coverings, window treatments and upholstery. They enjoy a tremendous amount of referral business and repeat customers. The business also has a very experienced manager in place, which would make taking over the business easy and seamless. Rev: $407K CF: $96K Ask: $99K
#I-N665 Well Known Event Décor/Event Preparation Business: This long established, well known business is a full-service special event company that specializes in designing, producing and coordinating custom designed decorations to visually enhance their clientele's special event, including theme decorations. They provide complete event management services for parties, conventions, receptions, etc., including installation and dismantle on event day. The current owner has operated this business for almost 20 years and has a well established reputation and a large repeat client base. This business offers the widest variety of products / services to their clientele compared to other event planners / coordinators. This is an excellent opportunity for an owner operator or for an existing synergistic organization wishing to benefit from an established quality reputation and resource base.

#I-N624 High Volume Gas Station: This high volume gas station is located on two major highways in Northeast Indiana. The business pumps 200,000 gallons per month and has inside sales of $82,000. Rev: $7M Ask: $375K Inv: $60K

#I-N613 Gas Station / C-Store: This profitable high volume gas station c-store has been in business for over 19 years in Southern Indiana. The business is located near two main highways and has virtually no competition. In addition to gas and groceries the store offers chicken, pizza, donuts, ice cream, beer and wine. The building is brick construction and is in excellent condition. The pumps have been recently updated and have been well maintained. The asking price includes approximately 2 acres of land that would allow for further expansion. Rev: $1.3M CF: $100K Ask: $450K + inv.

#I-1597 Retail Custom Lighting Store: Long established retail store specializing in lighting. This is not only a fantastic opportunity to own your own business in home retail, but it is currently run semi-absentee with an excellent manager in place. Customers include the general public and designers. There is a strong customer base as they have been in business for a long time and have an excellent reputation. A new hands-on owner could take advantage of a long standing, excellent reputation and actively manage, market, and grow the business. This one won't last long. Rev: $371K CF: $91K Ask: $129K + inv.

#I-1569 Bait & Tackle Store w/ Real Estate: This well know and very large bait and tackle store specializes in the selling of premium fishing tackle. They are the largest retailer of fishing equipment in their 50 mile area, carrying more tackle than any other single location. This store has a long established history with over 20 years of excellent service in the area. The store itself sits directly on a public chain of lakes with 25 dock slips for rent. Real Estate is included. Rev: $212K Ask:$145K

#I-1550 Bowling Alley & Entertainment Facility: This is a 12 lane bowling alley and entertainment facility located in Shelbyville, IN. The business is currently not open as the previous tenant has defaulted on commitments. The present building owner has chosen not to operate the bowling alley. However, the building is in great shape and all Brunswick equipment is fully functional, and in excellent condition. This is an excellent turnkey opportunity for an owner operator with the possibility of very favorable terms and / or financing available. The building may also be easily converted for other services. Ask: $375K

#I-1529 Lawn & Garden Equipment Sales & Service: Established for over 15 years, this business has a reputation to be the "go to" place for quality sales and service on name brand lawn and snow removal equipment. The business provides delivery and pick up service and handles both residential and commercial grade products. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The business is closed on Sundays. The business enjoys a very loyal customer base. Rev: $700K CF: $90K Ask: $260k+inv.

GAS STATIONS/C-STORES

#F-N672 Gas Station/C-Store: Unique gas station c-store opportunity. These two established gas station/ convenience stores are located in South East Indiana and both have 4 bay car washes. One of the locations also includes a 3 bedroom house with a 3 stall garage on the property. Both locations have ample room for storage. These businesses are located within minutes of each other and would be ideal for an owner operator to oversee both locations. The house could be used as a living quarters or rented out. The stores have combined inside sales of $78,395 and 68,000 gallons per month. The asking price includes bothbusinesses, including real estate, car wash equipment, a 3 bedroom house and a 3 stall garage. The combination of an established clientele, real estate and equipment make this a great value! Due to personal concerns the current owner is motivated to sell. Rev: $3.5M CF: $127K Ask: $429k & $229k or $549K for both.

#F-N625 Franchise Gas Station/Convenience Store: Profitable, established, high-volume gas station located in northern Indiana. Inside sales are $1.2 million and 40,000 gallons per month. The business has been located on the same busy intersection for over 30 years. The business is ideal for an owner/operator. With a price of $115,000, this business won't be on the market long! Rev: $1.2M Ask: $115K + inv.

Manufacturing/Distribution

#L-N709 Steel Services Distributor: The company provides fast and efficient steel services for companies located throughout Indiana. The company offers a wide variety of products such as sheet metal, angles, channels, pipes, square tubing, rectangular tubing, beams and rods. They also provide services such as custom shearing, braking, and cutting. The company is able to offer its products to customers who often require less than truckload quantities. Rev: $1.5M CF: $215K Ask: $595K

#L-N707 Manufacturing & Wholesale Distribution: Established for nearly 40 years, this niche sports related manufacturing and wholesale distribution company has been serving clients throughout the United States. Just recently, the company began servicing two other countries, one outside of North America, which are virtually untapped growth markets. The company has one patent. Rev: $2.9M

#L-N663 Winery: A winery producing award winning wines, distributed locally and to multiple retail customers. Tours, a wine tasting room and entertainment facilities attract customers and guests the year around. The winery has a great reputation, is very profitable and has exciting growth opportunities. The business may be purchased and operated as a stand-alone entity or may be an excellent add-acquisition for an existing synergistic organization. Rev: $1.9M CF: $422K

#L-N629 Manuf. Specialty Glass Products: This Company manufactures glass products for a wide variety of uses and purposes. Primary customers are distributors located throughout the world. Specialty items are also produced for retail sales. The business has been in operation for many decades and has an excellent reputation for quality products at reasonable prices. The business is profitable and has exciting growth opportunities. The business may be purchased and operated as a stand-alone entity or may be an excellent add-acquisition for an existing synergistic organization. Rev: $2.8M CF: $208K

#L-1524 Welding, Fabrication & Installation: Provides welding, fabricating, millwright and other related services to manufacturing and industrial clients. Services include steel fabrication, machinery installation, tank and building construction, and steel structures. In operation for many years and has an excellent reputation for quality workmanship. The business is very profitable and has great growth opportunities. The business would be an excellent add-acquisition for an existing synergistic organization. Rev: $1M CF: $319K

#M-N669 Specialty Distribution & Manufacturing Co: Established for nearly 20 years, this company also has a private label product. Revenue is broken down as follows: Commercial - 50%, Residential - 30% and 20% of gross revenue is represented by service work. The largest customer reflects <8% of total gross sales in 2007. With 3 new avenues of growth potential, 2008 Gross revenue is anticipated to grow to $19m. Rev: $10.3M

DRY CLEANERS/LAUNDROMATS

#E-N723 Dry Cleaning Plant: This dry cleaners has been in business at this location since 1996 and operated by the same owner. In 2004, the dry clean plant was set up and has been in operation for the last 3 ½ years. It is located on a major shopping thoroughfare in a busy part of town. It is in the immediate vicinity of a major national department store with several other major stores nearby. The facility was renovated in December of 2004, and was updated with new equipment. The facility is a fully functional dry cleaning plant, and includes a state of the art dry cleaning machine, shirt machine, and boiler, etc. It has alterations capability as well. Due to health issues and time constraints of the owners, the sales are predominantly from over the counter service, which they clean on-site. There is ample potential for additional revenue streams through delivery, servicing area hotels and expanding through drop off stations supported by the plant. This is an excellent turn key opportunity, just right for an owner operator or as a synergistic acquisition for an existing dry cleaning business in need of a plant location. Rev: $116K+ CF: $45K Ask: $100K MOTIVATED! MAKE AN OFFER!

#E-1573 Coin Laundry: Established over 30 years. Drop-off laundry service offered as well as on-site alterations. Laundry has 35 Top Loaders, 11 Double Loaders, 2 Triple Loaders, 1 Jumbo 50lb, and 18 Dryers. Rev: $90K Ask: $95K

#E-1560 Coin-Op Laundry: This very clean and well established laundry available for immediate acquisition. Built in 1981 and the current owner purchased this business in 2002. Includes 24 small top loaders, 4 medium 18 pound machines and 2 big 25 pound machines. Most revenue is from drop-off laundry cleaning; this might be as high as 70%. Other services include dry cleaning drop-off, ironing, an onsite tanning bed and alterations. Facility is approx. 2000 sq. ft. & lease is month to month.. This is a very nice 'cash' business ready for a new owner. Rev: $72K Ask: $54K

Services

#H-N790 Adult Bookstore/Novelties: This adult book/novelty store has good visibility. It is located at a major interstate exit. It is near several large truck stops and motels. It is housed in a recently remodeled, 2800 square foot building. It has a large parking lot. It also has a high gross profit margin. Ask: $100k includes inventory

#H-N779 Sales and Service-Measuring Devices: Company provides sales, installation, calibration and service of measuring devices. The business has been in operation for many years and provides equipment and services to a wide variety of customers throughout central Indiana. This is an excellent opportunity for an entrepreneur to own and operate his/her business. The business would also be an excellent add-acquisition for an existing synergistic organization. Rev: $709k CF: $150k Ask: $440k (+inv.

#H-N776 Concrete Services/Repair: This business provides quality concrete services to customers throughout Johnson and southern Marion counties. They install concrete foundations, sidewalks, driveways, pool decks, patios, garage and basement floors, and just about any other interior or exterior concrete work. Rev: $337K CF: $84K Ask: $225K

#H-N772 Existing Auto Repair Franchise: This is a great opportunity to purchase an existing Midas store in Central Indiana. Midas is one of the most recognized names in auto repair and maintenance. The store is well established, has existing management and is primed for a new, hands-on operator to grow the business! There are eight other locations choose from and all are ready to grow with the right leader. This is a rare opportunity!
Rev: $816K Ask: $475K

#H-N770 Day Spa & Salon: This modern and high-end Salon & Day Spa has been opened close to 10 years in one of the fastest growing communities in Indiana. Totaling 3,500 square feet, everything was custom designed to make guests feel comfortable. The salon has 8 styling stations, 2 manicure stations, 2 pedicure stations, 2 massage rooms, 2 facial rooms and a make-up area. A great location, excellent client base and a true turnkey operation! Rev: $566K CF: $86K Ask: $215K

#H-N768 Staffing & Outsourcing Company: Company is a premier provider of managed services and outsourcing solutions. It provides staffing services for light and heavy industrial, clerical, professional and human resource functions. It also provides high quality onsite management solutions to the light manufacturing and automotive supplier industries. A leader in its industry, it is well known for providing the highest level of service supported by a proprietary database of customers, prospects and carefully screened applicants. The company has realized consistent growth and is poised for continued growth both organically and through acquisition. Rev: $13.6M CF: $2.6M

#H-N754 Auto/Transmission Repair Shop: This auto/transmission repair shop has been open for over 20 years. It is located on a high traffic highway. It is open Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm. It has a great reputation for high quality work. It is very clean and well equipped with five (5) bays and three (3) lifts. It is ideal for an owner/operator.
Rev: $238K CF: $55K Ask: $135K

#H-N751 Auto Collision Repair: This business is engaged in auto collision repair and started more than 38 years ago in 1970. The company enjoys a loyal and repeat customer base and has an excellent reputation in this industry. The business has potential for significant sales growth utilizing existing equipment and facilities. The company is an excellent acquisition candidate as a stand-alone entity with growth potential or as an add-acquisition for an existing synergistic organization. Rev: $2.5M CF: $190K

#H-N750 Auto Repair Franchises: This is a rare opportunity to purchase up to nine (9) existing Midas stores in Central Indiana. Midas is one of the most recognized names in auto repair and maintenance. The stores are well established, have existing management and are primed for a new, hands-on operator to grow the business. These will not last long! Locations can be purchased individually, or for the right buyer, all together. Combined Rev: $5.5M Total for all stores: $2.6M

#H-N744 Self Storage Facility: This self storage facility provides 136 units on 3 acres. There is a 4500 square foot building which contains three offices plus a shop, break room and an efficiency apartment. There are 30 spaces available for boats, RVs and vehicle storage. The facility was built in 2000 and is in excellent condition. Rev: $115K Ask: $1.1M

#H-N739 Air & Dryer Duct Cleaning: Growing Air & Dryer Duct Cleaning business ready expansion! This Air Duct/Dryer Vent Cleaning business has experienced double digit growth each year, since it was founded. The business services both residential and commercial clients. There is almost no inventory and all the employees are currently independent contractors. The business is also home based eliminating overhead. The current owner has done a great job in establishing a strong customer base and brand recognition in the Central Indiana area. Business for 2008 has grown significantly from 2007. Rev: $62K CF: $35K Ask: $115K

#H-N715 Painting Contractors Commercial & Light Industrial: This well established business has been operating locally since 1970. They provide complete painting services including general painting, abrasive blasting/cleaning/preparation, pressure washing, and special water repellents. Some of the main clients include general contractors, schools, churches and other industrial settings. Some clients have up to 30 years relationship with contracts in-place. A strong turnkey operation with real estate! Rev: $675K Ask: $155K

#H-N708 Busy Banquet Facility: This well established banquet facility has been in operation for over 5 years. It is well known and provides premier dining and banquet services for clientele within its community and the surrounding area. With its well known reputation for excellence, it is the preferred special occasion venue in the area. The facility and equipment are under 6 years of age. The banquet facility has a 210 liquor license with catering and Sunday sales, and includes a good sized fully equipped commercial kitchen. Rev: $300K CF: $51K Ask: $250K

#H-N705 HVAC & Plumbing: Established for nearly 25 years, this rapidly growing business performs 100% commercial jobs. They specialize in office complexes, large warehouses and schools. The staff is highly trained and on average has been employed with the company for over 5 years. The two job foremen currently operate without supervision and can easily transition into the bid and estimate work. This company currently takes on only 20% of the jobs they are offered. They are poised for tremendous growth with the right acquisition. Rev: $1.2M CF: 179K
#H-N700 Quick Lube/Auto Repair: Established 10 years ago, this "first class" facility was simply built before its time! Originally out in the middle of nowhere, this Quick Lube now sits on a prime location. The first two bays are typically utilized for standard services, such as oil changes, tune-ups, brakes and minor auto repairs. An underutilized third bay allows for immediate expansion of standard services, marketing for additional fleet business or to provide a complementary auto service such as detailing. Rev: $235K

#H-N689 Auto Car Wash/Self Storage: This business is located right on a busy highway between two heavily populated areas. It has a car wash, and a self storage business with 200 units. The car wash has an automatic ride through car wash with a detail center and 6 self-serve vacuum stations. The self storage facility includes three buildings, two of which were built in the last two years, and are occupied at a little over half capacity. Rev: $170K

#H-N686 HVAC Company: Established in the 1950's, this second generation business has a great reputation and large client base. This full service company offers well maintained vehicles and real estate. They sell, service and install HVAC equipment for residential and light industrial clients. This business is an excellent opportunity for an owner/operator or synergistic type buyer seeking to grow geographically through acquisition. A great turnkey operation! Rev: $524K CF: $85K Ask: $259K including R/E

#H-N681 Tanning/Retail: Tanning/Retail-This very nice tanning salon is located in a high-traffic strip center. It has nine beds plus it has retail sales. It's a great location. It's also ideal for an owner/operator. Rev: $135K Ask: $79.5K

#H-N677 Heating & Cooling Business: Started in 1982, this successful HVAC Company has been operated by the same owner. With close to 500 clients, this business would be a great add-on to any existing HVAC business. Rev: $105K

#H-N660 Auto Collision Repair & Body Painting Franchise: This premier collision repair shop, also specializing in painting has been successfully operated for close to 18 years. Be your own boss with the largest repair facility in the country! Rev: $782K CF: $102K Ask: $325K

#H-N657 Optometrist Office & Eye Care Retail: This busy well established eye care facility has been located in the community for over 30 years. This facility performs eye examinations as well as makes and fits eye glasses on-site. They are one of the only stores in the area to offer 1 hour lenses. Their special technical expertise has meant that their only real competition in the area is from eye glass manufacturers. The owner has not had to raise the prices on lenses for quite a while. They currently offer examinations 3 days out of the week, and are open from Monday through Saturday. The store does not aggressively advertise its services except through yellow pages and some local media. This is an excellent opportunity for a new owner operator from the field of optometry with marketing savvy and the ability of performing their own examinations.
Rev: $220K CF: $91K Ask: $220K Inventory: $44.5K

#H-N646 Upscale Picture Framing & Artwork Retail PRICE REDUCED! This upscale picture framing and artwork retail business is located in one of the fastest growing areas of Indianapolis near major thoroughfares and situated in a popular shopping center, attracting local and surrounding community customers. The business was established in 1985 and has just experienced the three best years in its history and continues to maintain loyal residential and commercial repeat customers, and consistently attracts new ones. The shop specializes in fine custom and creative picture framing, limited edition prints, poster art, wall sculpture, photo restorations and commissioned artwork. They are a preferred provider for many of the businesses entering the community, such as medical complexes and office centers, as well as existing businesses wishing to renovate. Rev: $340K CF: $89K Ask: $175K

#H-N641 Niche Specialty Distribution/Service: This family owned niche specialty distribution / service business has been in operation for 22 years. They provide unique gift items with a specialty emphasis on local product. They provide to predominantly corporate clientele, as well as major city-wide events and large conventions in a major Midwestern city of 1 million plus population. Under current ownership since 1998, the business has grown from a home based business to a retail outlet, and as of this past fall, have gone live with their own website. This business is well positioned for a new owner to take it to the next level of growth. Retail sales continue to grow even with very little signage and virtually no advertising. Rev: $320K

#H-N635 Commercial/Business Printer: This successful printing business is an established leader in the commercial and quick printing industry, in South Central Indiana. The business has over 20 years of history in providing printing services for both corporations and individuals within a 100 mile radius. Strong revenues and cash flow make this a great opportunity for an existing printing company that's planning to expand or an individual (s) looking for a career in the printing business. Rev: $1.2M CF: $250 K Ask: $1.2M

#H-N622 Plumbing & HVAC: This Company is a mechanical contractor and does plumbing, heating and air conditioning service and installation contractor for commercial and residential clientele. The Company has strong relationships with clients and an excellent reputation for quality of work. The estimating and accounting systems are fully computerized. This business is an excellent opportunity for an owner/operator or synergistic type buyer seeking to grow or geographically diversify through acquisition. Rev: $4.56M CF:$416K+ Ask: $1.15M

#H-N617 Tanning Salon: Acquired in November 2006 as a side investment, the owner installed new bulbs and new starters throughout this well established tanning salon. In addition, a new computer/monitor along with new indoor and outdoor signage was purchased. This beautifully decorated, extremely clean salon has room to provide
additional services (as approved by landlord). For example, current owners have approval to offer the highly popular eyebrow threading! This salon does not have membership fees yet boasts over 1,000 customers, partly due to creative coupon advertising. Operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 8am-9pm, Friday & Saturday 8am-8pm and Sunday 10am-4pm, except from February-April, Sundays are open to 6pm. Rev: $260K+

#H-N612 Specialty Contractor: Specialty niche concrete repair contractor. This company provides a service that is a superior alternative to tearing out and replacing concrete. This business is primed and ready to grow. The current owner is keenly aware of the tremendous potential of this business, but lacks the resources to
take the business to the next level. This business does well during downtimes in the economy and does fantastic when the economy is good. Rev: $163K CF: $73K Ask: $100K + earnout.

#H-N611 Printing, Packing, Mailing & Shipping: This successful printing, mailing, shipping and packing franchised business is an established leader in the commercial and quick printing industry, in Southern Indiana. The business has over 14 years of history in providing excellent service to commercial accounts and individual clients, with a unique blend of services. Consistent sales and a loyal customer base make this business a great opportunity for someone looking for a career in the printing and shipping business. The business is a great value, because you will get 2 businesses for the price of 1! While the current owner has done an excellent job in building this business over the years, they feel the sky is the limit for continued growth. Rev: $385K CF: $70K Ask: $250K Inventory: $2.2K

#H-1599 Printing Franchise: This printing franchise offers a full scope of printing, copying, bindery, graphics and a variety of special services. Established since 1997, this Central Indiana location has solid sales and is the only franchise in the area. There are no new franchises being offered. This franchise has a desirable location, a proven track record and a great customer base. This financially strong franchise is positioned for tremendous growth with new ownership. Rev: $366K, CF: $99K New Lower Price: $275K

#H-1578 Manufacturer of Material Handling Devices: Specialty manufacturer and distributor of material handling devices. The company designs, fabricates and installs these devices as well as distributes standard devices. Rev: $821K CF: $370K Ask: $900K

#H-1545 Trucking Company: Successful regional flatbed hauling trucking company. The opportunities for growth are huge. The current owner turns away as much business as he accepts. 2006 Rev: $927K CF: $209K Ask: $750K R/E Ask: $650

#H-1420 Nursing Home: Specialized Residential Health Care Facility offering Assisted Living Services. Licensed by the Indiana State Board of Health and Medicaid approved. It is located in a rural setting with Medical Doctor, Registered Nurse, Pharmacist and Registered Dietician on staff. It is capable of serving the needs of mentally challenged patients. Over 40 beds. A part of Residential Care Assistance Program (RCAP). Ask: $725K (incl. R/E.) Rev: $550K

Bars, Taverns & Restaurants

#A-N794 Neighborhood Bar w/Real Estate: This neighborhood bar, established for over 40 years, is housed in a free standing building with its own parking lot. It easily seats 50 patrons. It offers them a friendly place to meet friends, drink and play darts in a remodeled venue. It carries a 3-way (210) liquor license. A new owner could take advantage of the kitchen with the (very nice!) large pizza oven, which is currently not in use. Rev: $15K/mo Ask: $260K includes real estate

#C-N793 Japanese Sushi Restaurant: This Japanese Sushi restaurant is located near a major mall. It easily seats 100 people and is open for business from Tuesday to Sunday, for dinner only. It has a large parking lot and a 3-way (209) license. It also provides private dining rooms and a sushi bar. It is very well-known in the area! Rev: $340k Ask: $98,500.

#A-N792 High Volume Pub & Grill, Southside Indy: This neighborhood pub & grill has been a fixture in its community for over 30 years and is well known for its entertainment. The bar has a stage, dance floor, and seating for over 400, as well as a full kitchen. It has a 209 liquor license. Included in the sale are 26 pool tables, approximately 37 televisions, video games, and a juke box owned by the current owner. The bar has a pool league three nights per week, and participates in tournaments. It also frequently provides live entertainment for its very established customer base. This bar has had the same owner for over 18 years and is in immaculate condition. IT LOOKS GREAT! Rev: $768K Ask: $385K

#A-N785 Southside Bar/Restaurant: This great Southside bar/restaurant has a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. It offers patrons entertainment including darts and a dance floor. It is known for it's great bar. There is a nice, well equipped kitchen. This bar/restaurant easily seats 125. It also has a 3-way (209) liquor license. It's ideal for an owner/operator. Rev: $480k Ask: $270k.

#C-N780 Franchise Pizza Restaurant/Bar: This is one of the areas most popular pizza franchises! The restaurant is in a great location. It offers customers a full bar, pool tables, darts and smoking in the restaurant/bar. It also provides delivery for call-in customers! It has a nice kitchen and a 3-way (210) liquor license. The sales percentages are 60% food and 40% liquor. This is a very nice restaurant! Ideal for an owner/operator! Rev: 291k Ask: $165k

#A-N777 Bar/Restaurant-Broadripple: This well-known bar/restaurant is located in Broadripple. It is one of the top entertainment places in the Indianapolis area. It offers its patrons billiards, an outdoor patio and ample parking. It has been remodeled. Some other amenities it offers is a kitchen and a 3-way (210) liquor license. It's in a great location! Rev: $392k Ask: $325k

#A-N775 Bar/Restaurant: Small town bar. Established in 2002, this neighborhood bar seats 100 people. It offers its patrons draft beer, satellite TV and a patio (for use in warmer weather). It has a kitchen and a 3-way liquor license with carry out. Smoking is allowed in the bar. It was recently remodeled. Ideal for an owner/operator! Rev: $25k/month

#A-N763 High Volume Sports Bar/Live Entertainment: This is a popular, high volume sports bar which offers live entertainment. There is a stage and a dance floor. Some other amenities are a kitchen, draft beer, dart, 6 HD TVs and pools tables (which are owned by the bar). The bar also has a 3 way liquor license with a gambling endorsement. This is one of the top grossing "gambling" locations in the area. Sales percentages are 90% liquor and 10% food. This is a great opportunity! Rev: $600K/yr Ask: $295K

#C-N757 Coffee Shop & Restaurant: This coffee shop is located in a high traffic area with great visibility. The building exterior is an old, historic, brick facility and the interior has been fully remodeled with great amenities. The restaurant seats 45 and is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is open Monday thru Saturday. Rev: $160K Ask: $85K

#A-N756 Upscale Bar/Restaurant-Downtown Indy: High volume upscale bar/restaurant - one of Indy's top destinations! 3 way Liquor license. Prime downtown location. Lot's of amenities. There is currently a full management staff in place that runs the facility. A new owner could choose to be absentee and keep the management in place if so desired. Rev: $4.5M

#B-N745 Franchise Pizza-Northside Indy: This franchise pizza business was established over 25 years ago. Housed in a 3400 square foot, free standing building on a very high traffic corner, it offers seating for 173 customers. Some other amenities include a popular menu, a beer/wine license, a large parking lot and a drive thru for customer convenience. The business operates Monday through Sunday. There is a long term lease in place. This attractive pizza franchise has strong owner cash flow. Rev: $551K CF: $122K Ask: $285K

#C-N741 Sushi Restaurant: This restaurant has consistently been rated one of the top restaurants in Indianapolis. With little marketing, but a great reputation, they provide a great atmosphere, an upscale environment, and high quality food and service. It has been a consistent performer with a big upside for the owner/operator. The restaurant is only open five (5) nights a week for dinner. Serves sushi, salads/appetizers and beer/wine, as well as an eclectic array of delectable desserts. 15 different beers, over 40 wines and sakes also are offered. Food accounts for approximately 75% of sales (beer/wine account for other 25%). Rev: $568K CF: $103K Ask: $199K

#B-N735 Quizno's Subs-2 Locations: One of the top sub franchises. Both locations have been open for six years. The stores are located in one of the busiest areas on the North and Northeast side of Indianapolis. They both have a strong local advertising presence. They are ideal for an owner/operator. Royalty is 7% plus 4% for Advertising. Loc. 1 Rev: $343K Loc.2 Rev: $478K Ask: $225K for both stores plus transfer fee & inventory

#C-N732 Country Diner: This family owned and operated diner provides a friendly, non-smoking atmosphere to its patrons. It is located in a 1,554 square foot building on 1.08 acres at the I-74 exit. It easily seats fifty people. It does a strong breakfast and lunch business. They also cater. The real estate is included in the sale. It is ideal for an owner/operator.
Rev: $139K Ask: $138K R.E. included.

#C-N731 Upscale Restaurant/Bar: This upscale restaurant/bar is located in a free standing building in a Historic Neighborhood in Indianapolis. It has a 3-way Liquor License. There is a large kitchen and a large parking lot. The establishment seats 135 plus 60 in banquet room seating. It also has an outdoor patio which seats 40. This establishment opened in 2001 and was voted one of the top 25 restaurants in the Indy Metro area. Very nice! There has been strong sales growth. It is a popular concept, a real gem! Rev: $782K CF: $134K Ask: $515K

#A-N730 Bar/Restaurant-Bloomington: This bar/restaurant with a friendly atmosphere is known for its family dining and good food. It's located on a high-traffic highway, which makes it very visible to patrons! It easily seats 125 people. It has a patio, a stage, a nicely upgraded kitchen. It allows smoking and carries a 210 liquor license with a gambling endorsement. Revenues are 40% Food Sales and 60% Liquor Sales. Rev: $300K/yr. Ask: $225K

#B-N719 Quizno's Subs-Greenwood: Quizno's Subs-Greenwood-This sub store opened in 2001. It easily seats 36 people. It is a well-known National Sub Franchise with a strong presence in the Indianapolis market. It carries a popular menu and has a strong lunch business. It also provides delivery for its patrons. The royalty fee is 12% of gross sales. Rev: $4.5K /week Ask: $30K

#B-N716 Ice Cream Franchise: This business is the most recognizable retail ice cream franchise that enjoys a 98% US brand awareness. This particular business has been family owned since 1970 and is well positioned for an owner/operator. Rev: $260K CF: $70K Ask: $100K

#A-N711 Restaurant: Quaint small town restaurant with a big city quality, service and atmosphere. This is truly a restaurant that any restaurateur would be proud of calling their own. Situated on approximately one acre of ground is the 11,000 sq ft restaurant with ample indoor and outdoor seating and ample parking. Restaurant includes bar, banquet facilities, as well as veranda and patio seating. This is truly a must see opportunity! Rev: $364K CF: $59K Ask: $95K

#A-N704 Bar/Restaurant-Southside Indy: Neighborhood Bar/Restaurant-This is a well-known and long established Southside gathering spot. It's been in business for over 16 years. It easily seats 120 people and carries a 3-way (209) liquor license. It boasts a large walk-in cooler, a kitchen, pool table and draft beer. It's ideal for an owner/operator.
Rev: $320K Ask: $165K

#A-N697 Bar & Grill: This friendly, bar and grill is located on a high traffic street. It easily seats 125 people. Some amenities include a 3-way liquor license, draft beer, a kitchen, plus an outdoor patio. Smoking is allowed. This is ideal for an owner/operator. Rev: $350K Ask: $135K

#A-N675 Tavern: This neighborhood tavern, housed in a free-standing building, is located at I-65 and SR 32. While there is no kitchen, it does provide live entertainment and has pool tables for the clientele. It is open from Monday through Sunday. It carries a 210 liquor license which allows for Sunday sales. It easily seats 125 people. It's ideal for an owner/operator. Rev: $20K/mo Ask: $95K

#B-N673 Fast Food Franchise: The nation's largest chain of double drive-thru restaurants. This franchise is ideally positioned for today's on the go customer. It is known for its full flavored, hand seasoned burgers, thick shakes, and seasoned fries. This location has indoor seating available for its customers. Rev: $495K Ask: $980K

#B-N668 Quizno's Subs: Quizno's-National Franchise Store. This Quizno's opened in 2002 in a high traffic location. It has a popular menu and is known for its innovative recipes. It is also known for their high quality; with every meal made-to-order. Royalty fees are 7% and advertising fees are 5%. This is great for an owner/operator! Rev: $302K Ask: $115K Inv.: $3.5K

#C-N658 Busy Deli w/Catering-Downtown Location: Well known established restaurant deli located in a high traffic destination location. This restaurant includes a side catering business that has only tapped the surface, having relied only on word of mouth for marketing. The restaurant offers home cooking and freshness, just like mom. It offers salads and sandwiches made fresh to order. The current owner takes pride in using only quality ingredients, as is evidenced by a superior product. They offer breakfast, baked goods, and pastries, as well as sandwiches, soups, salads, hot dogs, various side dishes, etc. The restaurant has a heavy breakfast and lunch rush, with many regular customers. This is an excellent opportunity for an owner operator, or young couple willing to put in the time to take the deli and/or catering to the next level. This location is situated for significant growth and is well known for its tradition and as a high traffic, touristy shopping location, with large office buildings nearby feeding lunch traffic. Rev: $243,485 CF: $29K Ask: $150K MOTIVATED SELLER!

#A-N650 Upscale Irish Sports Pub: Upscale Irish Sports Pub on Indy's Westside. This establishment has been a popular meeting place for over six years. Nearly 5,000 square feet with seating of 175, an outdoor patio that seats 30 and a 210 liquor license. Ownership has put nearly $100,000 in remodel that includes 3 new High Def projection TV's , 6 new 42 inch High Def Flat screens, 4 High Def Receivers and a High Def Satellite Dish. Along with this renovation ownership has just launched a new menu with several new items. This night spot features poker 4 nights per week, Karaoke 2 nights, a popular DJ every Friday night 2 pool tables, darts, and several popular games. Revenue for 2008 projected to be nearly $1ml. Rev: $700K Ask: $250K

#C-N632 Steakhouse & Neighborhood Pub: Popular college town pub and steakhouse. This place has been the place to go, both for locals and college students. Whether you want a great meal at an affordable price or to just go and have a beer in the pub, this is the place to go in town. It has a 210 liquor license with a gambling endorsement. It's ideal for an owner/operator! Rev: $624K CF: 86K Ask: $190K

#B-N626 Dairy Queen w/Real Estate: Dairy Queen-Full Menu. This free-standing building is on 1.022 acres of land. The building is 2800 square feet with a drive through. It opened in 2005. It looks great! Great location! Ideal for an owner/operator. Rev: $505K Ask: $1650M including building & lot.

#A-N609 Nightclub/Bar/Live Entertainment: This free-standing building, located in the fast growing Lawrence area, seats 176 people. There is a new kitchen. The club has a 210 Liquor License. Some of the highlights of this establishment include darts, billiards and a stage for live entertainment. Rev: $500K Ask: $140K

#B-N604 Dairy Queen/Orange Julius: Dairy Queen/Orange Julius-One of the nation's top franchises! This is not a Brazier. Open seven days a week in a very high traffic location. It was recently remodeled-looks great and is easy to run! Rev: $451K CF: $114K Ask: $356K + inv.($10K)

#C-1598 Steakhouse: Very popular steakhouse that seats over 200 guests and has a full service bar with a 3 way liquor license. This is part of a successful 25 year old franchise group that currently operates 80 to 90 restaurants system wide. This particular concept is their hottest new concept and is the primary focus of their growth plans. Rev: $1.9M CF: $205K Ask: $650K ($1.35M with R/E + inv.)

#C-1588 Closed Upscale Sports Bar/Restaurant: Closed upscale sports bar and restaurant which would be ideal for an owner/operator. This business features a large, well-equipped, high production kitchen with a separate area for dining as well as a large bar with numerous flat screen TV's for watching all the big sporting events. Draft beer is on tap. The bar area even features 2 duck pin bowling lanes. There is outdoor seating during the summer season. The bar carries a 3-way liquor license. It also has a POS system. Rev: $1M MOTIVATED OWNER! MAKE AN OFFER

#A-1562 Gentlemen's Club: This 17 year old club is housed in a free-standing building located close to a major gambling facility. Open Mon.-Sat. and seats 150 people. There is a 210 liquor license, but no kitchen. The price includes the building and land. Rev: $285K Ask: $500K

#C-1486 Maize, An American Grill-Upscale Restaurant & Catering: Maize, an American Grill is an established, well-known upscale restaurant & catering business in Lafayette, Indiana. It has been in business almost 10 years. Maize is a full service, 130 seat restaurant and bar. It is very popular with locals and corporate executives. Open for dinner only 7 days per week. The owners recently took over the second floor of the building for catering and parties. It is capable of handling parties of up to 300. Maize, an American Grill is located in the River Redevelopment District and the new owner would need to obtain a River Redevelopment liquor license which would cost less than $2,000, according to the current owner. Rev: $845K CF: $123K Ask: $299K

Larry Recommends:

BOOKS:

"The Eye of Jade" by Diane Wei Lang

Reviews from bookbrowse.com:

BookBrowse - Stacey Rae Brownlie
Fans of page-turning suspense may find this novel a bit too quiet, but readers interested in exploring other cultures and those who appreciate the subtleties of writing more often associated with literary fiction than mysteries, should find this first Mei Wang mystery very enjoyable. The Eye of Jade is an engaging glimpse of modern China blended with some of the compelling elements of the classic "who-done-it" adventure. It is also a work of fiction that successfully introduces one to the intriguing layers of modern Chinese society - a society of ancient tradition and global influence.

Library Journal
[A] provocative novel dealing with what truth is and how our personal perceptions cloud reality. Highly recommended

Thanks!

"Nothing Can Come of Nothing: Speak Again"

"Nothing can come of nothing: speak again."
King Lear (I, i, 92)

Many times I have been asked by a buyer if they can buy a business with no money down, and they then detail that they have great experience, great credit, great intentions, great plans, etc. etc. They have probably been watching a late night infomercial on buying real estate with no money down. My answer is always an emphatic "No". Buying a business requires capital!!! Yes, there can be "creative financing" but it always requires a realistic capital injection into the acquitsition of the business in an amount to make the Seller comfortable that the buyer is truely committed to the ownership and operation of the business and will not throw up their hands and walk away at the first sign of trouble.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Judging A Book By Its Cover

One of the biggest mistakes I have seen potential business buyers make over the years is to judge a business by the "package" prepared by the broker. A package is only a snapshot--a buyer needs to see the full length feature film. A true sense of a business can only be gained by actually seeing the business, walking around, talking to the owner,imagining oneself in that environment on a daily basis. Seeing a business is not doing a drive by and looking at the business from the outside. Buyers must invest some time to get out and tour potential business acquisitions--some true gems will be missed if the buyer makes a decision only on the "book cover".

Seller Is Closing Restaurant: Great Deal!

OLD TOPPER PUB & STEAKHOUSE
Client #C-N632

727 South Main St.
Greencastle, IN 46135

Popular college town pub and restaurant. This place has been the place to go, both for locals and college students at DePaw. It has a 210 liquor license with a gambling endorsement. It easily seats 250. The pub/restaurant is fully equipped with a kitchen and bar. The owner has elected to close the business because he was unable to supervise the business from over 50 miles away. It's turnkey. Real Estate: The real estate is owned by the seller of the business. There are approximately .3 acres of land. The building is 6500 square feet not including the basement.

Equipment: The equipment is in good condition. A detailed schedule of assets to be included in the sale is available upon request.

Training/Transition: The seller is willing to train and transition the Purchaser for a mutually agreeable period immediately following closing to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

Other Highlights:

-Revenue: $634k
-Cash Flow: $86k
-Real Estate for $235k
-Seller will offer a long term lease if he can't sell the real estate.
-Seller will consider financing part of the sale price with 1/2 down.
-Ran absentee

Asking: $75k

Monday, February 2, 2009

Cautionary Tale--Buying a Regional Franchise and Moving it into Virgin Territory

Our office was recently approached by an individual who had bought development rights to a sub/pizza franchise for the Indy metro area. It was a small franchise - 42 units nationally - and virtually no presence in the Midwest. The owner had simultaneously opened two units in Indianapolis last spring at a cost in excess of $900,000. Unfortunately, they were losing money at a very brisk rate and the owner could not keep the doors open.

The main lessons from this tale are three fold:

Don't assume that a concept that is popular on either the east or west coast will successfully transfer to the Midwest or vice versa. Be very aware of the regional cultural and taste differences.

It costs a great deal of money to establish a new concept in a new area! Be prepared for the operating losses until your concept catches on with the public.

Don't double down on your bet. Open one store and see if you can establish the concept and then grow if your first unit prospers.

Son Isaac on Camel in Tangiers

Son Isaac on Camel in Tangiers
"Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith."-- Margaret Shepard