If you're considering buying a business, especially if it's your first one, it's crucial to have open communication with your spouse. I recently encountered a situation that emphasizes the importance of this aspect.

I had just closed a deal and was about to hop on a call to address a potential issue that could jeopardize a fantastic opportunity for a buyer who was well-equipped for the acquisition. The buyer had the necessary capital, a strong fit for the business, and the seller was on board.

However, the buyer hadn't effectively included his wife in the process. While he did talk to her with full transparency, she was going to be a partner in the deal, albeit not actively involved in the business operations. It became apparent that the buyer hadn't done an adequate job bringing her along on the journey.

When you have partners, especially a spouse, involved in the deal, particularly when it's your first business purchase, it becomes a roller coaster of emotions. Drawing from personal experience, I made sure to involve my wife in company tours and discussions because it was a joint venture for us. Buying a business is statistically less risky than it might feel, with SBA loan failure rates at a mere 0.5%.

Deals often involve emotional highs and lows, and it's crucial to address the psychological aspects. In this recent case, the buyer's deal was on shaky ground not due to business factors but because the key decision-maker hadn't fully involved his wife, who was an essential partner in the deal.

In the world of business acquisitions, emotions and psychology play a significant role. Ensuring that all parties are informed and engaged in the process is essential. As a broker, part of my role is to navigate through the fears, concerns, and emotional fluctuations that arise. Much like a marriage and family therapist, I guide individuals through the highs and lows of this significant life transition.

The key takeaway is to learn from this situation — involve all relevant parties in the decision-making process. It's a common challenge that requires attention and careful handling in every business deal. By doing so, you can mitigate potential issues and ensure a smoother transition for everyone involved. I hope this insight proves valuable in your business endeavors.