Even though the size of businesses varies the criteria that makes businesses desirable is basically the same. Some of these criteria are: Longevity of the business. Has it shown proven profitability over a period of time? A reputation for offering an excellent product or service. Location in an expanding market area. Sustained growth or at a minimum stability of profits. Reasonable commitment of time necessary to run the business. Verifiable financials showing reasonable profits compared to industry norms as well as an acceptable level of debt. An asking price that can be defended and will allow an appropriate return on and of the investment over time. To name a few.