Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about buying and selling businesses on Arkquire.
Categories
Getting Started
What is Arkquire?
Arkquire is an online platform that connects business sellers with potential buyers. We provide a secure, transparent, and efficient way to buy or sell businesses across various industries and locations.
How do I create an account?
To create an account, click on the 'Sign Up' button in the top right corner of the homepage. You'll need to provide basic information like your name, email address, and create a password. After signing up, you'll receive a verification email to confirm your account.
Is it free to join?
Yes, creating an account on Arkquire is completely free. Basic browsing and some features are available to all users at no cost. However, we do offer premium services and listing options that require payment for enhanced visibility and features.
What types of businesses can I find on your platform?
Our marketplace features a wide range of businesses across various industries including retail, food & beverage, technology, manufacturing, hospitality, professional services, and many more. Businesses range from small local establishments to larger corporations.
Selling a Business
How do I list my business for sale?
To list your business, log in to your account and click on 'List Your Business' in your dashboard. You'll need to provide detailed information about your business, including financial data, operations, assets, and reason for selling. You can also upload photos and documents to support your listing.
What information should I include in my business listing?
A complete listing should include: business name and location, years in operation, detailed description, reason for selling, asking price, annual revenue and profit figures, inventory and assets included, number of employees, lease terms (if applicable), and growth opportunities. The more detailed your listing, the more interest you're likely to receive.
How much does it cost to list my business?
We offer several listing packages: Basic (free), Standard ($199), and Premium ($499). Each tier provides different levels of visibility, featured placement, and support. Success fees only apply when your business sells through our platform, ranging from 2-5% depending on the final sale price.
How long will my listing be active?
Standard listings remain active for 90 days, while Premium listings stay active for 180 days. Free Basic listings expire after 30 days. All listings can be renewed or upgraded at any time. You can also remove your listing before the expiration date if needed.
Buying a Business
How do I find businesses for sale?
You can browse businesses by using the search function on our homepage. Filter results by industry, location, price range, and other criteria to narrow down options that match your preferences. You can also save searches and set up alerts to be notified when new listings matching your criteria are added.
How do I contact a business seller?
When you find a business you're interested in, click the 'Contact Seller' button on the listing page. You'll need to be logged in to send messages. All initial communication happens through our secure messaging system to protect both parties' privacy until you're ready to move forward.
Is my information kept confidential when I inquire about a business?
Yes, we take confidentiality very seriously. Your personal information is not immediately shared with sellers when you make an inquiry. Most business sales require signing an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) before sensitive details are shared, and we provide templates for this process.
How do I make an offer on a business?
After initial discussions with the seller, you can submit a formal offer through our platform by clicking the 'Make Offer' button on the listing. You'll specify your offer price, terms, conditions, and any contingencies. The seller can then accept, reject, or counter your offer through our system.
Do you provide financing options for business purchases?
While we don't directly provide financing, we partner with several financial institutions that specialize in business acquisition loans. Premium members have access to our network of lenders who understand the business buying process and may offer preferential rates.
Bidding & Auctions
How does the bidding process work?
For businesses listed as auctions, you can place bids directly on the listing page. You'll need to be a verified user to participate in auctions. Each bid must meet or exceed the minimum bid increment. Auctions typically run for 7-14 days, with the highest bidder at closing winning the right to purchase the business under the terms specified.
What is the difference between 'Buy Now' and auction listings?
'Buy Now' listings have a fixed asking price set by the seller. You can make an offer at or below this price, but there's no competitive bidding. Auction listings start at a minimum bid price, and potential buyers compete by placing increasingly higher bids until the auction closes.
Are my bids binding?
Yes, bids placed in an auction are considered legally binding commitments to purchase the business at the bid price if you win. Before bidding, make sure you've done your due diligence and are prepared to follow through. Backing out after winning an auction may result in penalties and affect your user rating.
Can I retract a bid?
Under exceptional circumstances, you may request to retract a bid by contacting our support team immediately. Bid retractions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are generally only approved in cases of demonstrable technical error or if the business details significantly changed after your bid.
Account & Security
How do I update my account information?
You can update your account information by clicking on your profile icon in the top right corner and selecting 'Account Settings.' From there, you can edit your personal details, contact information, preferences, and notification settings.
Is my personal and business information secure?
Yes, we use bank-level encryption and security protocols to protect all data on our platform. We never share your information with third parties without your consent. Business details are only visible to verified users who have agreed to our confidentiality terms.
What verification steps do you require for users?
Basic verification includes email confirmation and phone verification. For premium features and participating in transactions, we require identity verification (government ID), and business buyers/sellers may need to provide business credentials and financial verification depending on transaction size.
How do I delete my account?
To delete your account, go to Account Settings, scroll to the bottom, and click 'Delete Account.' Note that if you have active listings or ongoing transactions, you'll need to complete or cancel these first. Account deletion is permanent and cannot be reversed.
Support & Resources
How can I contact customer support?
Our support team is available via live chat, email, and phone. Click on the 'Help' button in the bottom right corner of any page for immediate assistance. Premium members have access to priority support and can schedule one-on-one consultations with our business advisors.
Do you offer guidance on business valuation?
Yes, we provide various resources on business valuation, including guides, calculators, and webinars. Premium members can request a professional valuation report at discounted rates through our network of certified business appraisers.
What resources do you offer for first-time buyers or sellers?
We offer comprehensive guides, webinars, checklists, and educational content specifically designed for first-time buyers and sellers. Our resource center includes step-by-step tutorials, common pitfalls to avoid, and expert insights to help you navigate the process confidently.
Do you offer legal document templates?
Yes, we provide a library of standard legal templates including NDAs, Letters of Intent, Purchase Agreements, and due diligence checklists. While these templates are a good starting point, we always recommend having final documents reviewed by your legal advisor.
Still have questions?
Our support team is here to help. Contact us for personalized assistance with any questions about buying or selling businesses.