How does building a business with the goal of being acquired, differ from building a business you intend to own and operate?
In theory, it should not be different but it is in these ways.
Building A Company To Sell
If you are looking to sell it quickly you are going to need to start quickly and have impressive numbers in regards to sales and or customer acquisitions. A company with great sales and or high customer acquisitions is very appealing to a buyer. Your business model, even if it is yet to be profitable, may be appealing as well. Example: if you have recurring income, that is quite appealing. Membership models hit the two pillars most buyers want: customers and recurring income.
The only difference when you are looking to sell is you may not be thinking durable or sustainable which may cause you to do short term things that look good to buyers but may not be sustainable for the long haul.
