In this straight-talking solo episode, Jonathan Jay reveals the 14 most common mistakes first-time business buyers make – and how you can avoid them.

After a decade of mentoring hundreds of entrepreneurs through their first (and second, third, even 20th) acquisition, Jonathan has seen the same mistakes crop up again and again. Some cost people time. Others cost them tens – even hundreds – of thousands of pounds. And a few can cost them everything.

Whether you’re just starting out, stuck in analysis paralysis, or partway through a deal, this episode will give you clarity, confidence and practical tips to avoid painful pitfalls and accelerate your journey to a successful business acquisition.

• Why getting your information from random internet sources is a fast-track to failure

• The dangers of mixing advice from YouTube, blogs and podcasts – and why you need a single, structured approach

• Why deal sourcing is easy – but getting deals over the line is what actually matters

• The myth of sending out letters – and the smarter, modern ways to generate deal flow

• The critical mistakes buyers make when valuing a business – and how overpaying can sink your deal

• Why “buying a business for £1” is not the shortcut you think it is – and what to do instead

• How to build credibility with sellers – even if you’ve never bought a business before

• The terrifying reality of personal guarantees – and how to avoid them

• Why relying on YouTube or Google to find your deal team is a massive mistake

• The hidden danger of “saving money” by skipping proper due diligence

• Why small deals can be more trouble than they’re worth – and what profit level to aim for

• The truth about broker sites, proof of funds, and why off-market deals win

• The #1 reason most people never buy a business – and how to make sure you’re not one of them

If you’re serious about buying a business – and avoiding the mistakes Jonathan outlines – book a free Clarity Call with one of his team:

👉 dealmakers.co.uk/clarity

You’ll get 15 minutes of expert insight to help you decide which next step is right for you – whether that’s attending a Deal Club evening, joining the 3-day Foundation Programme, or stepping straight into the Mastermind.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps more future dealmakers discover the show – and succeed in their first business acquisition.

Resources Mentioned:

• Business Buying Toolkit – Free Download

• Upcoming Deal Club Events

• 3-Day Foundation Programme