There’s more than one way to succeed as an entrepreneur. Beyond starting up a business – witness our brand name! – you might be able to buy an existing business instead.

And in case you’ve dismissed the idea of buying a business because of the up-front money it requires – the same money you already blew on your brand new car – think again. With some creative financing ideas, you might be surprised what you can afford.

Here’s some vital info about choosing a business to buy and whether it’s for you:

The business is a known quantity: The best argument for buying an existing business is, well -- that it’s an existing business. In other words, it’s got a book of customers, a name or brand, probably some physical assets, relationships with vendors, likely a line of credit, an established market, some experienced employees, and all the other things that a startup lacks. It’s the basic idea behind a franchise opportunity as well.

Find out more on how to buy a business at http://www.americanventuremagazine.com/articles/270.