Studio transition/buyout advice
I’m looking for some real-world input from anyone who’s been through a studio transition/buyout. I currently rent space in a high-intensity training studio owned by another trainer. She plans to retire in 3–5 years, and the rough idea is that I would take over the space at that point with a gradual transition of clients and relationship building. She trains her own clients with the help of her husband (around 90 clients), and I run my own business within the space (30-35 sessions/wk currently). What’s being discussed is a seller-financed buyout / equity over time, but I’m struggling with how that applies when the business doesn’t operate independently of the owner. In reality, it seems like I’d be: – Buying equipment – Taking over the lease – Hoping some percentage of clients stay (no guarantees) For those who’ve been through something similar: – Is there actually a “business” to buy in this scenario, or mainly equipment + opportunity? – How have you handled valuing a client base that buys session packages? – Have you seen cleaner transition structures (e.g. revenue share / transition period) that worked better? I’m want to take over the space, but want to make sure it’s structured in a way that makes sense. Appreciate any insight or examples.