How do you ensure you're purchasing an investment and not a job?

searcher profile

September 22, 2025

by a searcher from University of Wisconsin - Madison in Madison, WI, USA

How do you ensure that once you become an owner through acquisition that the business doesn't consume your life? Many business owners work much longer hours than a 9-5, and I'm wondering how you can ensure you're searching for an acquisition that will eventually become mostly self-sustaining rather than something all-consuming.
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commentor profile
Reply by a lender
from Eastern Illinois University in 900 E Diehl Rd, Naperville, IL 60563, USA
I know most people want to buy a business that does not involve much time for them. That is the ultimate dream. Work a little bit and have income pouring in. However, that is not the way most businesses work, especially if you are getting into a small business at a reasonable price. You have to work to build the business and put the systems in place so you can afford to step back more. It takes time. With that said, going into an acquisition you need to focus on finding a business that you are passionate about. If you love what you are doing it is not a job, is becomes part of your lifestyle. I know I personally enjoy getting up to work every day, and I work a lot. But I enjoy what I do. I think that is key.
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Reply by a professional
from Seton Hall University in Morristown, NJ 07960, USA
Can I add a slightly different perspective? I went out on my own for the financial prospects, but also because my Calendar wasn't mine -- my bosses decided my Calendar. I knew it was a bigger job to launch and grow (and probably still is in everyone elses view). But in 20+ years, I didn't miss a dance recital, a baseball game, I coached, saw every award ceremony, graduations and never missed a beat. Many times worked happily until 2-3AM, and still married for 30-years this year. Because that gave me the balance that I designed, planned and controlled. Control can be an asset that we might forget and we don't often have with a day job. I agree with most comments I read above, because they are all different as well they should be. There is no ensuring what the purchased company will become, but you can ensure that you make it what you want.
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