For example, if you're thinking of buying an office building, you'd need to talk to real estate brokers or agents about the types of properties available, their features, and their price range. If it turns out that the type of building you want is far beyond your borrowing ability, you may have to set your sights lower by choosing one with less square footage, or in a less desirable location. If you are thinking of buying a piece of industrial equipment, you'll need to talk to suppliers or agents to see what's available to fill the needs of your production system, and to do some comparison shopping . You may find that you'll need customized equipment that costs more. Or, you may find that you can live with standard, used equipment that costs significantly less.
Salespeople can be invaluable sources of information.
Salespeople are particularly adept at selling you on the features of whatever product they happen to be pushing that month. You can't rely on them to say that you might be able to meet your goals with an older model, or with some modifications to your existing equipment. Identify all procurement alternatives. As you scope out the costs of the project, don't forget that there are many ways to skin a cat. Depending on the type of project, you may have the choice of buying, leasing, or constructing some or all of the item yourself.