Should I Use an e-Business Broker When I Buy a Website? :: Sell Websites Buy Web Sites

Should I Use an e-Business Broker When I Buy a Website? Reprinted with permission of VotanWeb.com A website broker is similar to a real estate broker to the extent that they try to put buyers and sellers together. Instead of real estate being sold, they focus on websites. The criteria to become a website broker vary from state to state and their individual training, history, specialty and area of expertise are things that you must investigate. Some website brokers work independently while others work for a website brokerage company. Website Brokers work on commission and if you do not ultimately buy a business then any work that they have done for you is not compensated. If you hire a website broker, it is critical that you hire the right one. A website Broker may be able to provide you with access to websites that are available for sale that you would never be able to find on your own. They can narrow the search for you to websites that fit your criteria and they can help you avoid a lot of wasted time. The one thing that brokers cannot do is to find a website that is right for you. This is something that only you can do. Brokers clearly prefer to work with knowledgeable buyers and if they have to spend their time educating you then they cannot make money. They can be an effective tool for you to use if you can provide them with a clear mandate of what it is that you are looking to buy. Avoid generalities; explain your strengths, weaknesses and objectives and never mislead them. Ninety percent of the potential buyers that brokers work with never buy a business. While this is part of the risk involved in their chosen profession, this does not give you the right to waste their time. Accordingly, they may be somewhat hesitant when working with new clients until you demonstrate your sincerity and commitment to buying a website. There is no doubt that if you are a serious and educated buyer then a good broker will go above and beyond the call of duty to service your needs. Be respectful of their time and realize that they have to make a living. If at any time you decide to drop out of the hunt to buy a website then let them know immediately. Conversely, if you do not feel that they are extending their best efforts on your behalf then find another one.