Spent the last 15 years in tech, good run. But I’m on a break right now and honestly not sure I want to go back. I have some savings, am in my mid forties, and the idea of owning something real (i.e. a main street business) keeps pulling at me.

I’ve been poking around bizbuysell for a few weeks. Found a few interesting listings. Actually reached out to a couple of brokers. One responded, the others have ghosted which was surprising.

Not sure if I’m coming across as a tire kicker or why I’m not being taken seriously.

For the people who have gone through this (I’m not looking for the standard “do your diligence” advice, I’ve read all that), what actually surprised you? The parts in the process that surprised you that no one gave you a heads up about.

What was harder than you expected? What did you get wrong either during the pursuit or negotiation etc that you wish someone had told you about?