Along with answering questions about location, you need to know how much you can afford to spend. Once you have an idea about where to look and what your budget is, start by reading local newspaper advertisements under the Business Opportunities heading. In most metropolitan areas, the Sunday papers will have a large listing section. Conversely, you can also place an ad stating that you are looking to purchase a specific type of business.

You can also start your search by word of mouth. You can network via your local civic and business organizations and attend meetings of the Chamber of Commerce. Many businesses have trade organizations or associations. By networking with people in the industry and handing out your business cards you can learn more about opportunities.

Industry newsletters can also be a plus when seeking businesses that are for sale. You can expand your possibilities further by spreading the word among friends, family, and colleagues, and in social or community groups to which you belong.

You might also enlist the services of a business broker. While business brokers usually represent sellers, a broker may be able to inform you of sales opportunities you might otherwise have missed.

Just be sure to perform due diligence before selecting a business broker. Get references and check to see if he or she is a member of the International Association of Business Brokers or a member of your state's business broker association.

The Internet is also a good place to start your business search. Search “buying a business” and include your state on a search engine such as Google or Yahoo, and you will have no shortage of results from which to choose.

For more information on buying a business, you can also consult the Business Reference Guide. Found in any good business library and available for purchase from Business Books Press, this annual publication has a wealth of information on finding and assessing the value of a business.