The reason for this is that valuations can appear to be high, but that aspects of due diligence could quickly allow you to scratch off an option that isn’t worth getting professional help to assess for value.

Nevertheless I hope this excellent article goes a long way to convincing potential business buyers that there is way too much complexity, and too many opportunities for critical error, to even think of going it alone. Always seek full professional advice before entering into a contract to buy, in particular an accountant, a solicitor, and a business adviser.