Starting a Business

Should I sign a non-binding Letter Of Intent if I think it has questionable info on it?

I'm interested in purchasing an existing business and my real estate broker stated seller is requesting that I sign a non-binding Letter of Intent. I am afraid to sign due to questionable info. The non-binding LOI states a sales price and earnest money figures that I am not in agreement with. This sales price and earnest money is what my real estate broker and the seller have discussed. I am confused because sources on the internet state that although the LOI is stated to be non-binding, I am still submitting the information as agreeable in "good faith." Does this mean that at the time of contract, I will have to place my earnest monies up front due to the signed non- binding LOI?

Nina Kaufman

August 14, 2007

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

There is no such thing as a non-binding letter of intent. At the very least, it obligates you to negotiate in good faith to carry out the intended transaction. It can also go much farther than that and, if it contains sufficient material facts, can be the only contract necessary to bind you to the transaction. I don’t recommend that you sign any letter of intent without it being reviewed by knowledgeable counsel, so you should definitely not sign one that contains questionable information.

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Should I sign a non-binding Letter Of Intent if I think it has questionable info on it?

6 Years After 'Shark Tank,' This Lobster Roll Food Truck Clawed Its Way Into a Multi-Million Dollar Business

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6 Years After 'Shark Tank,' This Lobster Roll Food Truck Clawed Its Way Into a Multi-Million Dollar Business