3 Things To Consider Before You Buy Bar Establishments

Owning a bar is a fantasy that many can claim. Who hasn't once thought about what it would be like to own and manage the hottest place in town? Your favorite bar may be the place where "everybody knows your name," but is it a good financial investment? Like all business investments, there are important factors to consider before you jump in and buy a bar business for sale. Bar establishments depend primarily on sales, so investigate carefully whether or not the bar you are considering buying has these components:

Location, Location, Location

Obviously a common mantra in real estate -- primarily because it is true! If you are looking for buy bar opportunities, look for bars located near restaurants, movie theaters or other popular hangouts. When people are out, they tend to stay close to their original destination. A bar located near a favorite local restaurant will see a lot more traffic than one located farther away.

Parking is another item to think about before you buy. Bar establishments that offer ample parking (or are located within easy walking distance from a parking garage) make it easy for patrons to choose them. If parking is not easily accessible, is there a way to offer valet?

Would You Like Some Fries With That?

Look to buy bar opportunities that serve food in addition to liquor. Bars that serve food tend to be more successful over time than bars that only serve liquor. Not only do you ensure that your patrons have no reason to leave, regular intake of food helps them continue ordering drinks -- which is where your real profits come into play!

And, the food doesn't necessarily have to be top cuisine in order for customers to buy. Bar food can be anything from appetizers and peanuts to pizza and burgers. Of course, once you buy a bar for yourself, you can take the food any direction you wish. Many bars are embracing a new trend of serving high caliber food to their patrons.

Let's Get This Party Started!

Successful bars have a hook -- a reason to draw people in. When looking into buy bar opportunities, look for a bar that offers live bands, karaoke or broadcasts sporting events. People need a reason to walk through your doors. A bar that includes room for a stage, has the latest karaoke equipment or is decked out with flat screen televisions is going to fit that bill.

Obviously you would want to investigate other factors (like profitability, licenses, etc…) before you buy. Bar opportunities are about more than just financial returns, however. Making it easy for patrons to come, having good food for them to enjoy and entertainment will go a long way towards your success as a bar owner.

See all California bars for sale on BizBen.com at this time.

About the Author:  Peter Siegel, MBA is the Founder of www.BizBen.com (established 1994 - 7000+ California businesses for sale, 200 new listings daily) and the Director of the BizBen Network (16,000 business buyers, 4,000 small business owners, 1,800 California business brokers & agents). He consults daily with business buyers, business owners, small business advisors, business brokers and agents on selling and buying California small businesses. He is also the author of three books on the topic of how to buy and sell California small to mid-sized companies. For a FREE consultation on the best way to buy or sell a California business, phone Peter Siegel direct at 866-270-6278.

Posted on November 30, 2010  |   Email This Blog Post   |   Print This Blog Post   |  All Contributions From Peter Siegel, MBA