Advantages of Buying an Existing WebsiteReprinted with permission from VotanWeb.comWith any new website you have two challenges: develop the product or service and then see if people are willing to pay for it. Regardless of a website's past performance, an existing website will, at a minimum, have a history from which you will be able to make certain decisions. Even if the website hasn't been profitable in the past, your strengths may lend themselves perfectly to turning it into a profitable venture. Additionally, you have the option to check what the website has done in the past that has led to the current state of the operation. Pros: The website is already “up and running”. It is likely to have an existing customer base. The website previous owners are likely to provide support and goodwill. There is a proven website formula to emulate. The website can be sold alone. Generally better chance of success than starting a similar website from scratch. Cons: Often a large investment is required, Website transfer costs, for example lawyer, analysis, accountant, etc. A large amount of time required to research available opportunities. Ease of Investigation To purchase the right website, you will be required to do a thorough investigation of its past activities, its operations, its current status, competition, industry and its future potential. You will accumulate this information and then have to determine how it will fit with you at the helm. Clearly, this collection of information will be substantially more accurate and easier to obtain when dealing with an existing website, as you will have the resources to obtain the details from. Infrastructure You will have the advantage of purchasing a website that has an infrastructure that includes customers, suppliers, servers and systems. This will allow you to focus on building the business rather than a start up or new website where everything starts from scratch. Purchase Price Differences Buying an existing website doesn't mean it will cost you more. In fact, many times it's less expensive than launching a new website. Even in cases where a reward may be required, at least you know what you will get if you investigate properly. A new website will require a whole series of studies that will indicate that "theoretically" the website should be fine.