Buying into an existing business is a high-stakes shortcut to entrepreneurship. You skip the "startup struggle," but you inherit the previous owner's history—both good and bad. 1. Identify Your Entry Point

(Retirement and health are good; "the industry is dying" or "lawsuit pending" are red flags.)

Before spending thousands on legal fees, ask the "Three Whys":

Don't just look at public marketplaces like . Some of the best deals are "off-market."