Look for businesses you might be interested in purchasing and contact the owners. Ask them if they are interested in selling. On the average, about three out of every 10 calls attract some interest. If owners are not interested in selling, they might be able to refer you to someone else. Chambers of commerce.
Some chambers of commerce maintain buying and selling services for businesses in their area.
SBA and state or county economic-development agencies. These organizations frequently know of businesses for sale and can give you referrals. Check with suppliers, vendors, distributors, manufacturers and trade associations about potential businesses for sale. They are excellent resources for industry-specific businesses. Business bankruptcy listings.