In the fall of 2001 I became interested in purchasing an established business from someone who planned to retire. Although I was employed at the time and not specifically looking to make a change, the move looked like a great opportunity. The venture seemed to have potential and matched up with many of my business skills. It also appeared to fit in with my desire to do God's will and to serve other people.
Initial meetings went well. Cash flow and financial statements looked favorable and source of investment capital presented itself effortlessly. I went through the legal steps of forming a corporation to purchase the business's assets, equipment, and client base. Things were coming together fast, and the seller seemed very motivated to have this transaction take place quickly.
The next logical step was to resign my full-time position with a software company. My resignation was accepted and I was able to leave my job on a positive note. Then everything began to fall apart.