Many dentists are drawn to dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ, due to the existing patients and potential for professional growth. However, acquiring plenty of patients is just the beginning and not a guarantee of success. Here are some key aspects to consider before purchasing a dental practice in this promising area.
Seek help early.
If you are interested in dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ, it’s wise to reach out to medical brokers, supply companies, and healthcare-focused accountants. They can help you find dental practices that match your criteria, whether it’s dentists approaching retirement or those interested in adding an associate. It’s vital to maintain confidentiality during these discussions and consider retaining a dental broker to represent you.
Develop a budget.
You need to understand your financial capacity before you start looking at dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ. Formulate a budget that includes personal expenses, salary, and loan payments for the practice to guide what size practice you should look for. Consider additional factors (such as compensation for the original dentist if they stay on) and share your budget with your banker to explore financial options.
Don’t forget about the staff.
Remember, when you buy a dental practice in Scottsdale, AZ, you’re also acquiring its support staff. Their institutional knowledge can be invaluable to your long-term success, as they understand the business systems used to operate the practice.
See it for yourself.
Inspecting dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ, in person can provide critical insights into the staff, patient flow, and growth opportunities. Understanding these elements can guide whether a practice is a worthwhile investment or if untapped growth opportunities can be leveraged.
Assess the asking price.
Don’t take the seller’s asking price at face value. Consult professionals who specialize in dental practice valuation to ensure the practice’s finances align with national benchmarks. Scrutinize financial statements and tax returns to make sure you’re making a wise investment.
Negotiate through a third party.
Price negotiation is a critical first step that often sets the tone for the rest of the agreement. Emotions can run high, so making an “offer to purchase” through a third-party professional can smooth the negotiation process. By doing so, the transaction becomes more transparent and less prone to biases. Engaging a neutral party can help bridge the gap between the buyer’s and seller’s expectations, making the negotiation process more manageable and less stressful.
Once both parties have reached an understanding concerning the price, it often becomes a motivating factor that encourages further cooperation. With the financial agreement secured, the buyer and seller typically find it easier to negotiate the remaining elements of the deal, such as terms for property transfer, equipment handling, staff retention, and transitional support. Prioritizing the price negotiation helps establish a solid foundation for the rest of the acquisition, promoting trust and openness that can lead to a successful and satisfactory conclusion for both sides.
Consider financing options.
Exercise caution if the selling dentist proposes to self-finance the purchase. This approach may lead to a conflict of interest, as the seller could be more focused on achieving a specific financial outcome to their benefit.
Many buyers prefer to work with a bank for financing, as it provides a more neutral and unbiased avenue for securing the funds needed for the purchase. This way, the terms and valuation of the deal are likely to be more balanced and fair for both parties.
Understand real estate costs.
The purchase of the dental practice and the dental office are separate transactions. Your lender may have specific requirements for a lease, and early involvement with your banker can be beneficial in this process.
Work with a broker.
In the search for dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ, it is crucial to engage professionals, evaluate the financial health of the practice, and ensure your financial needs are met. With careful planning, you’ll find a professionally fulfilling practice and a financially sound investment.
Looking for dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ? Strategic Medical Brokers can help. See our list of medical and dental practices for sale in Scottsdale, AZ. We also have a list of medical and dental practices for sale in other parts of the US.