Buy Something Now or Wait for the Right Deal?

April 02, 2026

by a searcher from Marymount University in Charlotte, NC, USA

Hi all, I could use some advice from this group. Background: I’m a self-funded searcher focused on acquiring companies in a specific set of industrial sectors. My goal has been to build a portfolio of businesses in adjacent spaces and create compounding value over time (not a one-and-done deal). I had put together a small pool of capital to pursue this. However, I was laid off earlier this year, which has changed the equation quite a bit. At the moment: - I’m dipping into personal savings - Deal flow has been extremely limited, not just quality deals, but even seeing opportunities has been a challenge - Brokers/bankers seem hesitant to engage since I’m not yet an “operator-owner,” which makes breaking in harder than expected So I feel a bit stuck between a few paths: 1. Acquire a smaller / unrelated business Get into the game with something accessible (even if not ideal), build operator credibility → Concern: will it generate enough capital and positioning to move into my target sectors later? 2. Wait for the right deal Increase proprietary outreach, go more direct-to-owner, and push through the current friction → Concern: ongoing cash burn with uncertain timeline I’d really value perspectives from those who’ve been through this phase: - Is it better to optimize for entry (any decent business) or stay disciplined on sector thesis? - How did you break through broker gatekeeping early on? - If you had to restart, would you prioritize stability first or momentum first? Appreciate any candid thoughts, this phase is definitely tougher than it looks from the outside.

Reply by a searcher
from Texas A&M University in Austin, TX, USA

Three quick answers to your questions. I searched for a year and have bought twice -- both $300 - 500k SDE. - Optimize for entry. Sam Rosati's Big 3 Little 2 framing is excellent, here. I've heard some good stories about buying small, but know that your bar for quality and buyer fit should be high. Check out Acquiring Minds podcast episodes on buying small. They're mostly positive, with big caveats. - I followed the Buy Then Build books' thesis and target statement framing to a tee. Brokers are careful with their time, of course. If you're not clear or focused enough yet, you're more likely to be treated that way. It's just part of the process. Keep swinging until you are. - I'd prioritize momentum in deal flow however you can do it. Build a funnel and know your metrics. Model out how many leads you need to see to close in 12 months. Actually buying is different. Operating is going to be 2-3x harder than searching. When you're replacing W-2 income, you have to balance both stability and momentum. If your downside case can work for your household, go for it.

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