New restaurant Buyers commonly make the following mistakes:  Underestimating the startup costs to renovate (or build) and open a location.  Signing a lease with unfavorable terms.  Poorly matching their concept to the location and target demographic.  Attempting to run a concept 100% absentee that is not suitable for absentee operation.  Signing contracts with vendors (linen, credit card processing) on unfavorable terms.  Expanding too rapidly, before the concept is ready and before the original location is well-managed and solidly profitable.  Keeping poor books and records. Owners who are unable to analyze their performance and improve margins leave profits on the table!