Potential entrepreneurs often feel going into business for themselves means bootstrapping, building a new business from the ground up. Others might consider investing in a franchise opportunity. However, buying an existing business is an alternative many have not considered. Buying an established business may offer advantages such as an existing customer base and supplier relationships, an established brand, the possibility of seller financing and more. Around 20% of the small businesses in the United States may be for sale at any given time according to some estimates, and Nolo's 3rd edition of The Complete Guide to Buying a Business is the perfect  companion for investigating that option.  Attorney and Author Fred S. Steingold lays out all the steps from finding the right business for you, understanding its true worth, negotiating the best terms for a sales agreement, and closing the deal.   The Complete Guide to Buying a Business is also appropriate for the business owner who needs to acquire another company for strategic reasons such as expanding into a new market or offering a new service.  This 2011 edition is completely updated with latest laws and tax information and lays everything out clearly and without making you wade through a lot of legalese.