First-time buyer course

This is educational. It is a reading order, not a course that certifies you, and not a loan approval.

1. Write the buy box

Industry, states, price, and the cash flow you need, in writing. The buy-box builder on this site turns that into JSON an agent can search. A mood is not a search. Proof of funds is a separate question. Checking a box here does not show a bank statement to anyone.

2. Learn the price

Seller's discretionary earnings, add-backs, and a multiple are the usual language for a small company. Read the add-back guide before you believe a number. The valuation estimator shows NewHands's bands and every adjustment. It is not an appraisal.

3. Talk to a lender early

SBA describes the 7(a) program. The lender applies the current SOP 50 10, including whatever equity injection that SOP requires on the day you apply. This site does not quote a percent. A conversation with a lender before you love a listing is the module. SCORE and an SBDC can help you find a human. NewHands does not assign one.

4. Read a deal before you write one

Model buyer cash, a seller note, a contingent earnout, and an equity roll. Watch the debt-service coverage. A ratio under 1.25 is a common lender screen, not a regulation. Then read the letter of intent guide so the words you sign match the model.

5. Diligence by trade

Use the industry checklist, the red-flag guide, and the quality-of-earnings explainer. Hire an accountant for the books and a lawyer for the contract. The working-capital peg is a term you negotiate, not a statute.

6. The first hundred days

The transition plan is part of the price. If the owner is the business, the first hundred days are a job, not a vacation. Read that guide before you agree to an absentee structure.

Nothing in these modules replaces the people you hire. The readiness score is the same list as a number, so you can see what is still open.