Most buyers of businesses, when asked why they want to buy a business or go into business for themselves, state that they want to control their own destiny or don't want to work for anyone else. Making more money is far down the list. In fact, most buyers who have left the more lucrative corporate world claim that they would never go back to it. Although most buyers would probably not admit it, the decision to buy a business is primarily a lifestyle choice. In this context, the type of business or the geographical place is immaterial--it's the switch from job-holder to business owner that is the dramatic change. Just giving up the "frequent flyer" out-of town trips and the constant meetings may be a lifestyle change for many. One buyer said that he saved 1000 hours a year by adding up the cost of commuting and time spent in meetings. For many new business owners, the lifestyle change becomes more important than money.

Sellers of businesses should keep in mind, however, that a lifestyle business is determined by the buyer--not the seller. It is the buyer's perception that gives a business its "lifestyle" quality. No matter how quaint your bookstore may be, buyers are not going to overlook the basics they expect to find before even thinking about the style of life it might provide. Buyers are still going to look at: