Most prospective business buyers really don't know from the outset the exact type of business they want to buy. Experienced business brokers and intermediaries know that many business buyers end up with what is sometimes a far cry from what first captured their imagination.

Take, for example, the old story of the buyer who saw (and probably smelled) a doughnut shop in his business dreams. This was the business he was sure he wanted to own and operate - until he discovered that someone, most likely him, had to get up at 3 a.m. to make the day's baked goods. It is important that, before making the dream a reality, those prospective buyers understand just what the business is and how it fits their personalities - what they want to do and what they don't want to do! Obviously, if getting a good night's sleep is important, owning a doughnut shop is not a good idea.

In searching for the right business, here are some of the crucial questions a prospective business buyer might ask himself or herself:

• Does the business look exciting and interesting to me?
• Do I feel that I can improve the business?
• Would the business offer me pride of ownership?
• Would I feel comfortable operating the business?

Professional business brokers can offer many different businesses for a prospective buyer to consider. Prospective business buyers can discuss their needs and wishes with a professional business broker who can then show them opportunities that they might never discover on their own.