Each approach has advantages. Asset sale advantages include:  The space is already built, so you save substantial money (typically $50k - $300k+) on construction costs! Spend your cash instead on marketing, advertising, and working capital.  Good locations, currently occupied by ineffective operators or the wrong concepts, become available often. Expand to an existing space rather than being restricted to new construction!  Start with a health department approved kitchen that largely meets city construction codes. Only minimal improvements are typically required.  Acquire a client base: introduce your food and brand to an existing audience.  Save months of time: open your doors and start generating revenue way ahead of schedule.   Building from scratch also has advantages:  Greater flexibility to tailor the location to your concept, as you’re not restricted by the prior buildout.  Fresh buildouts have better odds at negotiating tenant improvement money or rent credits from landlords.