Buy Then Build

Buy Then Build presents a strategic alternative to the traditional startup path, showing entrepreneurs how to acquire existing businesses rather than build from scratch. The book outlines a systematic approach to business acquisition, backed by Deibel's experience as an acquisition entrepreneur. The text breaks down the acquisition process into four key sections: Opportunity, Evaluation, Analysis, and Execution. Each section provides practical frameworks for finding target companies, assessing their value, structuring deals, and managing the transition of ownership. The book includes detailed guidance on financial metrics, negotiation tactics, and working with brokers. It covers essential aspects of due diligence, risk assessment, and the creation of comprehensive business plans for acquired companies. The core message challenges conventional entrepreneurship wisdom by advocating for the purchase of established businesses as a more reliable path to success. This approach represents a significant shift in thinking about business ownership and market entry strategies.

Readers describe this as a practical guide to entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA), with clear steps for buying and operating existing businesses. What readers liked: - Real examples and case studies that illustrate key concepts - Step-by-step framework for finding and evaluating businesses - Specific advice on financing and deal structures - Focus on risk reduction compared to startups - Discussion of search funds and funding options What readers disliked: - Limited coverage of post-acquisition integration - Some found it too basic for experienced buyers - Several mentioned wanting more detail on valuation methods - A few noted the focus skews toward larger deals ($1M+) Ratings: Amazon: 4.6/5 (574 reviews) Goodreads: 4.3/5 (856 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Finally, a book that shows the realistic path to business ownership" -Amazon reviewer "Would have liked more tactical advice on running the business after purchase" -Goodreads reviewer "Great primer but left me wanting more detailed analysis tools" -Goodreads reviewer

HBR Guide to Buying a Small Business by Richard S. Ruback and Royce Yudkoff. This guide outlines the process of acquiring and operating existing businesses as an entrepreneurial path, with frameworks for company evaluation and deal structuring.

Mergers and Acquisitions from A to Z by Andrew J. Sherman. The book presents strategies for identifying target companies, conducting due diligence, and navigating the M&A process from initiation through closing.

The Complete Guide to Buying a Business by Fred S. Steingold. This resource covers legal and practical aspects of business acquisition, including contracts, financing options, and liability protection.

The Art of Selling Your Business by John Warrillow. The book examines business acquisitions from the seller's perspective, providing insights for buyers to understand deal dynamics and negotiation points.

Small Business Finance for the Busy Entrepreneur by Sylvia Inks. This book provides frameworks for business financial analysis and funding strategies specific to small business acquisitions and operations.

🔸 The term "Acquisition Entrepreneur," popularized by Walker Deibel in the book, represents a new category of business owner who buys and grows existing companies rather than starting from scratch. 🔸 Walker Deibel has personally acquired seven businesses and has invested in over 50 companies, applying the principles he outlines in "Buy Then Build." 🔸 The book's methodology aligns with statistics showing that acquisition entrepreneurship has an 80-90% success rate, compared to the roughly 20% success rate of traditional startups. 🔸 In addition to being an author and entrepreneur, Deibel is a Certified M&A Advisor and teaches as an adjunct professor at Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis. 🔸 The book was published in 2018 and quickly became the #1 bestseller in Amazon's Mergers & Acquisitions category, influencing a new generation of entrepreneurs to consider acquisition as their path to business ownership.