Shopify Stores for Sale: Where and How to Find?

Starting a new Shopify store from scratch may not be everyone’s cup of tea. For those looking to take a shortcut to success, buying an established Shopify store can be a viable option. In this guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of buying Shopify stores for sale. Until the end, we ensure you make an informed decision and set yourself up for Shopify business success. Let’s take a look!

Table of Contents:

Why Should You Buy a Shopify Store?

Before deeply diving into how to buy Shopify stores for sale, we will walk through why to do that. There are a lot of reasons to own Shopify stores for sale. In which, the most common reason can be:

• Infrastructure already in place
• Immediate revenue generation
• Recognized and respected brand

For more details, keep reading! 

Infrastructure already in place

You know, starting an online business from scratch can be a daunting task. However, if you have Shopify stores for sale, you can skip the initial setup phase. These stores come with a pre-built infrastructure, including:

• A fully functional website
• Payment gateways
• Inventory management systems

You can take advantage of the existing design and layout of the store, which may have been optimized for conversions and user experience. This not only saves you significant time but also financial resources. As a result, you can focus on growing the business instead of dealing with technical complexities. 

Immediate revenue generation

One of the most significant advantages of buying a Shopify store is the potential for immediate revenue generation. If you starting a brand new business, you may take months or even years to turn a profit. Conversely, a well-established Shopify store can already have a steady stream of customers and sales. This means you can start earning from day one. 

Also, you can analyze the existing sales data to understand the customer base, popular products, and marketing strategies that have proven successful. This knowledge can help you continue to generate revenue and make improvements to boost sales further.

Recognized brand

Building a brand from scratch requires time, effort, and a significant marketing budget. However, when you own Shopify stores for sale, you acquire existing brands that are already recognized and respected by their target audience. Also most stores will also have other digital assets like social media profiles to enhance their position in the market.

This brand recognition can give you a competitive edge and help you establish trust with potential customers more quickly.

How To Buy Shopify Stores?

Now, coming to the guide of how to buy Shopify stores for sale. This process is not too complicated only includes the following steps:

• Step 1: Determine your budget
• Step 2: Locate a trusted marketplace
• Step 3: Choose a profitable store
• Step 4: Engage in negotiations for the sale
• Step 5: Complete the transfer of the store

Now let’s explore each step in detail with us

Step 1: Determine your budget

Before embarking on your journey to acquire Shopify stores for sale, it’s crucial to establish a clear budget that aligns with your financial capabilities and risk tolerance. This will help:

• Narrow down your search 
• Ensure you’re targeting stores that fit your financial constraints

To decide your budget, you must: 

• Establish a realistic budget: Assess your current financial standing and determine how much capital you can comfortably allocate towards acquiring a Shopify store.
• Consider financing options: Explore potential financing options, such as business loans or angel investors, to supplement your available funds. Remember to factor in the additional costs associated with financing, such as interest payments and potential equity dilution.
• Assess the desired ROI: Set realistic expectations for your desired return on investment. It would be better to consider the industry average ROI for Shopify stores and adjust your expectations based on the specific store’s performance and potential growth opportunities.

Step 2: Locate a trustworthy marketplace

Once you’ve established your budget, it’s time to find a reputable marketplace to browse and acquire Shopify stores. Locating a trusted marketplace is crucial for a safe and successful Shopify store acquisition. Here are some key considerations when evaluating potential marketplaces:

• Reputation and track record: You should research the marketplace’s reputation and track record in the e-commerce industry. Check for online reviews, testimonials, and industry recognition to assess their credibility and expertise.
• Vetting process: It is essential to inquire about the marketplace’s vetting process for sellers and listings. Ensure they conduct thorough due diligence to verify store financials, ownership, and potential liabilities.
• Transaction security: Evaluate the marketplace’s security measures to protect buyers and sellers during the transaction process. Look for escrow services, secure payment gateways, and fraud prevention measures.
• Support services: It would be better to assess the level of support the marketplace offers. Check if they assist with due diligence, negotiations, transfer of assets, and post-acquisition guidance.
• Fees and commissions: You must understand the marketplace’s fee structure for buyers and sellers. Compare fees across different platforms to find the most cost-effective option.
• Marketplace type: Consider the marketplace that best suits your needs. Several marketplaces offer varying levels of vetting, support, and transaction security. Now, there are three popular types of markets including:
  • Popular marketplaces: These platforms offer a wide range of Shopify stores for sale, along with varying levels of due diligence and support services. We will state more detail about this marketplace in the next section
  • Niche marketplaces: They are for you if you seek stores in specific industries or with targeted demographics.
  • Brokerage firms: Engage with brokerage firms specializing in e-commerce acquisitions if you desire more personalized guidance and assistance throughout the buying process.

Step 3: Select a profitable store

Choosing profitable Shopify stores for sale involves thoroughly evaluating financial performance, growth potential, and alignment with your interests and expertise. Here’s a comprehensive guide to selecting the right store for your acquisition:

• Analyze financial performance: Here are some factors you need to look at: 
  • Revenue growth: It is important to assess the store’s revenue growth trajectory over the past few years. Consistent and sustainable revenue growth indicates a healthy business.
  • Profitability: You need to evaluate the store’s profit margins, considering both gross profit and net profit. Healthy margins suggest the store is operating efficiently and generating a decent return on investment.
  • Cash flow: Analyze the store’s cash flow statement to ensure positive cash flow, which is crucial for meeting operational expenses and reinvestment.

• Assess growth potential: There are several points that you need to consider carefully to know the growth potential of the Shopify store you intend to buy, which are:
  • Industry trends: It is vital to evaluate the overall growth trends of the industry in which the store operates. A growing industry indicates potential for future expansion.
  • Market share: Assess the store’s market share within its industry. A strong market share suggests brand recognition and competitive advantages.
  • Customer base: You should evaluate the store’s customer base, considering customer retention rates, lifetime value, and geographical reach.
• Align with interests and expertise: You need to consider the following aspects:

• Passion and knowledge: Choose a store that aligns with your interests and areas of expertise. This will enhance your motivation and ability to manage the store effectively.
• Transferable skills: Assess your transferable skills and experience from previous endeavors. Choose a store that leverages your strengths and allows you to apply your expertise.
• Learning curve: Consider the learning curve associated with the store’s products, services, or target market. Ensure you’re willing and able to invest the time and effort to understand the business fully.

• Financial verification: Verify the store’s financial statements with supporting documentation, including tax returns, bank statements, and accounting reports.
• Asset verification: Confirm the existence and ownership of all store assets, including inventory, intellectual property, and website domain.
• Legal review: Engage an attorney to review any legal documentation, such as contracts, agreements, and non-compete clauses.

• Research the seller: Research the seller’s background, experience in eCommerce, and reputation within the industry.
• Review seller communication:  We recommend you assess the seller’s communication style, responsiveness, and transparency throughout the negotiation process.
• Seek references: It is necessary to check if the seller can provide references from previous buyers or industry peers.

• Multiple of discretionary earnings (MDE): Values the store based on a multiple of its annual discretionary earnings (SDE).
• Multiple of revenue: Values the store based on a multiple of its annual revenue.
• Asset-based valuation: Values the store based on the fair market value of its tangible and intangible assets.

Step 4: Engage in negotiations for the sale

After determining the profitable store you want to buy, it’s time for negotiation. Negotiation is never an easy task, no matter the circumstances. You must have enough knowledge, intelligence, judgment, and decisiveness. 

Here are some bullet points that you should do to be best prepared for the negotiation to buy Shopify stores for sale:

• Prepare a preemptive offer: Structure a preemptive offer that reflects your valuation of the store, considering factors like profitability, growth potential, and industry benchmarks. Outline your proposed payment terms, transfer conditions, and any contingencies.
• Counteroffers and negotiation: Be prepared to receive counteroffers from the seller and engage in a negotiation process. It would be better to approach negotiations collaboratively, aiming to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
• Non-monetary considerations: Consider non-monetary aspects of the deal, such as seller financing, training and support during the transition period, and non-compete agreements.
• Legal review and documentation: Engage legal counsel to review all contracts, agreements, and transfer documents to ensure the transaction is legally sound and protects your interests.
• Contingency planning: You need to outline contingency plans in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as discrepancies in due diligence findings or delays in asset transfer.
• Professionalism and diplomacy: It is important to maintain professionalism and diplomacy throughout the negotiation process. Avoid making aggressive or emotional statements, and focus on finding common ground.
• Seek expert guidance: Consult with a business broker or financial advisor specializing in eCommerce acquisitions. Their expertise can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the negotiations.
• Closing the deal: Once an agreement is reached, finalize the transaction by signing all necessary documentation and completing the transfer of assets. Don’t forget to maintain open communication with the seller to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 5: Complete the transfer of the store

Upon reaching an agreement with the seller, the final step is to transfer the store ownership and assets. 

In this step, you need to do a few things:

• Transfer of assets: Secure the transfer of all store assets, including the Shopify store itself, website domain, customer data, inventory, and any intellectual property.
• Payment finalization: Finalize the payment according to the agreed-upon terms, ensuring secure and transparent transactions.
• Legal documentation: Complete any necessary legal documentation, such as contracts, asset transfer agreements, and non-compete agreements.
• Post-transfer support: Seek guidance from the seller during the initial post-transfer period to ensure a smooth transition and address any unexpected issues.

Where to Find Shopify Stores for Sale

To help you find the best marketplace for buying Shopify stores, we have compiled a list of the top 6 most prominent options available today. Each marketplace has its own advantages and disadvantages, so we will provide you with a comprehensive overview to assist you in making an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and conditions.

Flippa

Flippa is an online marketplace specializing in buying and selling websites, domains, and online businesses. It has become a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals looking to enter the online business world. 

Like any marketplace, Flippa has pros and cons worth considering.

• Pros of Flippa:
  • Wide range of price ranges: Flippa allows users to buy and sell businesses in any price range, making it accessible to individuals with different budgets and asset sizes. 
  • Ease of navigation: Flippa is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for buyers and sellers to navigate the platform.
  • Marketplace for small to medium-sized businesses: Flippa fills a market need by providing a platform for owners of small to medium-sized businesses to buy and sell their assets. This sets it apart from other platforms that may require higher valuations. 
  • Versatility in selling: Flippa allows users to sell various assets, including websites, domain names, apps, and FBA online businesses.
  • Thorough inspection: Flippa conducts a thorough inspection of each listing before sales begin. This includes checking financial indicators, statistics, and other parameters, ensuring quality and reliability.
  • Post-payment: Flippa charges fees to sellers only after the transaction has been completed, providing a level of security for both buyers and sellers.
• Cons of Flippa:
  • Scams: Flippa has been criticized for having a higher number of scams compared to other platforms. It is important for users to exercise caution and perform their own due diligence before making any transactions.
  • Steep fees: Flippa charges fees for its services, which some users may find to be on the higher side. It is important for sellers to consider these fees when deciding to sell on the platform

Empire Flippers

Empire Flipper refers a curated marketplace that specializes in buying and selling online businesses, including Shopify stores They are known for their rigorous vetting process, ensuring that the businesses listed on their platform are of high quality.

Here are some pros and cons of using Empire Flippers:

Pros:

• Wide range of online businesses: Empire Flippers offers a wide range of online businesses for sale, including e-commerce stores, content websites, SaaS businesses, and more. This variety allows buyers to choose businesses that align with their interests and expertise.
• Vetted listings: Empire Flippers thoroughly vets the businesses listed on their marketplace. They verify financials, traffic, and other important metrics to ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of the listings. This helps buyers make informed decisions and reduces the risk of scams .
• Transparent information: Empire Flippers provides detailed information about each business listing, including financials, traffic sources, growth opportunities, and more. This transparency allows buyers to evaluate the potential of a business and make informed decisions.
• Supportive community: Empire Flippers has an active community of buyers and sellers who share their experiences, insights, and tips. This community can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the buying and selling.
• Broker assistance: Empire Flippers offers broker assistance to buyers and sellers. Their experienced brokers can help navigate the complexities of buying or selling an online business, providing guidance and support.

Cons

• Higher price range: Some users have mentioned that Empire Flippers tends to list businesses at higher prices. This can make it challenging for buyers with limited budgets to find suitable options.
• Limited selection: Compared to other marketplaces, Empire Flippers may have a smaller selection of businesses for sale. This is because they focus on vetting and curating high-quality listings, which can result in a more limited inventory.
• Competitive bidding: Due to the popularity of Empire Flippers, there can be competitive bidding for desirable businesses. This may drive up the prices and make it more challenging to secure a deal.
• Seller fees: Empire Flippers charges fees to sellers for listing and selling their businesses on the platform. While these fees are standard in the industry, they can be a consideration for sellers looking to maximize their profits.

FE International

FE International is a global marketplace for buying and selling online businesses. They have a team of experienced brokers who can help you find the right Shopify store for your needs. FE International also offers a variety of financing options to help you purchase a store.

Pros:

• Expertise in website brokerage: FE International has a strong reputation and expertise in website brokerage. They have a team of experienced professionals who can guide buyers and sellers through the process of buying or selling an online business.
• Extensive network: FE International has a wide network of potential buyers and sellers, which can increase the chances of finding the right match for a business transaction.
• Valuation services: FE International offers valuation services to help determine the worth of an online business. This can be useful for both buyers and sellers in negotiating a fair price.
• Mergers and acquisitions: FE International also specializes in mergers and acquisitions, allowing businesses to expand and grow through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

Cons:

• Fees: Like any brokerage service, FE International charges fees for their services. These fees can vary depending on the size and complexity of the transaction. Buyers and sellers must consider these fees when evaluating the overall cost of using FE International’s services.
• Limited transparency: Some users have reported limited transparency in buying or selling a business through FE International. Buyers and sellers need to have clear communication and expectations with the company to ensure a smooth transaction.
• Limited scope: FE International primarily focuses on website brokerage and online businesses. If you are looking to buy or sell a business in a different industry, you may need to consider other brokerage firms that specialize in that specific industry.

BizBuySell

BizBuySell is a general marketplace for buying and selling businesses of all types, including Shopify stores for sale. They have a large selection of businesses for sale, and they offer a variety of tools to help you find the right business for your needs. 

Here are some pros and cons of using BizBuySell:

• Pros
  • Wide selection of businesses: BizBuySell has a large database of businesses for sale, offering a wide selection for potential buyers to choose from.
  • Access to detailed information: The platform provides detailed information about the businesses listed, including financials, industry, location, and more. This allows buyers to make informed decisions .
  • Opportunity for negotiation: BizBuySell facilitates direct communication between buyers and sellers, allowing for negotiation on price and terms.
  • Marketplace for established businesses: BizBuySell primarily focuses on the sale of established businesses, which can be advantageous for buyers looking for businesses with existing customer bases, revenue streams, and established operations.
• Cons:
  • Competition: Due to its popularity, BizBuySell can be a competitive marketplace, with multiple buyers vying for the same businesses. This can make it challenging to secure a desired business.
  • Broker fees: While BizBuySell allows for direct buyer-seller communication, many businesses listed on the platform are represented by brokers. If a buyer chooses to work with a broker, they may need to pay a commission fee, which can be a significant expense.
  • Quality of listings: Not all businesses listed on BizBuySell may be of high quality or meet the buyer’s expectations. It is important for buyers to thoroughly research and evaluate the businesses before making a purchase.

Website Closers

Website Closers is a brokerage firm specializing in selling online businesses, including Shopify stores for sale. It has a team of experienced brokers who can help you find the right Shopify store for your needs and negotiate the best possible price.

• Pros:
  • Expertise in online business transactions: Website Closers has extensive experience in facilitating the buying and selling of online businesses. They understand the unique challenges and considerations involved in these transactions.
  • Valuation services: Website Closers offers valuation services to help sellers determine the fair market value of their online businesses. This can help set a realistic asking price and attract potential buyers.
  • Confidentiality: Website Closers understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality during the buying and selling. They take measures to protect the sensitive information of both buyers and sellers.
  • Negotiation assistance: Website Closers can provide negotiation assistance to help buyers and sellers reach mutually beneficial agreements. They have experience in navigating the complexities of deal structures and terms.
• Cons:
  • Fees: Using Website Closers’ services typically involves paying fees. These fees can vary depending on the size and complexity of the transaction. It’s important for buyers and sellers to consider these costs when deciding whether to use their services.
  • Subjectivity of valuation: While Website Closers provides valuation services, the valuation of an online business can be subjective. Different buyers may have different opinions on the value of a business, and it’s important for sellers to manage their expectations accordingly.
  • Dependency on the broker: Buyers and sellers who choose to work with Website Closers will need to rely on the expertise and availability of the broker assigned to their transaction. It’s important to establish clear communication and expectations to ensure a smooth process

Business Exits

Like many platforms mentioned above, Business Exits is a marketplace for buying and selling businesses, including Shopify stores. This platform has a large selection of businesses for sale. Also, it offers various tools to help you find the right Shopify stores for sale.

Pros:

• Wide range of businesses: Business Exist offers a diverse selection of businesses for sale, including Shopify stores. This provides buyers with a variety of options to choose from based on their interests, industry preferences, and investment goals.
• Specialized platform: Business Exist focuses on buying and selling businesses, making it a dedicated marketplace for entrepreneurs looking to enter or exit the business world. This specialization can provide a more streamlined and targeted experience for users.
• Valuation assistance: Business Exist may offer valuation services to help sellers determine the fair market value of their businesses. This can benefit sellers unsure about pricing their businesses and want to attract serious buyers.
• Transaction support: Business Exist may support the transaction process, including negotiations, due diligence, and paperwork. This can help buyers and sellers navigate the complexities of buying or selling a business.

Cons:

• Fees: Using Business Exist’s services typically involves paying fees. These fees can vary depending on the size and complexity of the transaction. It’s important for buyers and sellers to consider these costs when deciding whether to use their services.
• Subjectivity of valuation: While Business Exist may offer valuation assistance, the valuation of a business can be subjective. Different buyers may have different opinions on the value of a business, and it’s important for sellers to manage their expectations accordingly.

Wrap-up

Ultimately, opting for Shopify stores for sale can be a straightforward and impactful method to kickstart your eCommerce business. However, it is important to emphasize that finding a suitable Shopify store is difficult. Therefore, we kindly urge you to carefully review our comprehensive 5-step guide and consider the marketplaces we recommend. We sincerely hope you will soon discover a Shopify store for sale that meets your requirements and brings you satisfaction!