Book Overview: Buy Then Build: How Acquisition Entrepreneurs Outsmart the Startup Game by Walker Deibel Link to heading

Summary Link to heading

Buy Then Build by Walker Deibel is a practical guide for entrepreneurs interested in acquiring existing businesses rather than starting new ones from scratch. The book outlines the benefits of acquisition entrepreneurship and provides a step-by-step roadmap for finding, evaluating, and buying businesses. Deibel shares his insights into why acquiring an existing company can lead to quicker profitability and lowers the risks associated with traditional startups. The book delves into the process of searching for the right business, negotiating the deal, financing the purchase, and managing post-acquisition operations to ensure sustainable growth.

Review Link to heading

The book is highly regarded for its straightforward and pragmatic approach to entrepreneurship through acquisition. Deibel leverages his own experiences and observations in the field to articulate why buying a business can be a more effective strategy than starting one from scratch. One of the strengths of the book is its detailed explanation of the acquisition process, which is often overlooked in entrepreneurial literature. Critics have noted that the book may assume a certain level of financial knowledge, making it potentially challenging for complete novices. However, its real-world applicability and actionable advice make it a valuable resource for aspiring acquisition entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways Link to heading

• Acquisition over Startup: Buying an existing business can offer a faster track to profitability by leveraging existing revenue streams, established processes, and customer bases.
• Risk Mitigation: Acquiring businesses reduces the inherent risks associated with startups, such as market fit and product validation.
• The Search Process: Deibel provides practical strategies for locating and assessing potential acquisition targets.
• Financing Acquisitions: The book discusses various financing options, including leveraging Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, seller financing, and private equity.
• Post-Acquisition Growth: Emphasis on the importance of planning and executing a growth strategy post-acquisition for maximizing the investment.

Recommendation Link to heading

Buy Then Build is highly recommended for entrepreneurs, business investors, and those interested in learning about alternative paths to becoming a business owner. The book is particularly beneficial for individuals with some business or financial experience looking to understand the mechanics of business acquisition and who are interested in a detailed, actionable framework for successfully navigating the acquisition process.