Price is one commercial question; operating cash needs and E-2 eligibility remain separate. A cheaper purchase may still leave the buyer unable to support the enterprise after revenue falls. Obtain independent transaction advice and assess the actual committed funding rather than treating a negotiated discount as proof that the plan is adequate.
Compare the price with the cost of a credible contingency
Estimate the resources needed to pursue other customers, adjust capacity or absorb a period of lower sales. Separate amounts already committed from a reserve still available. If financing terms change, document the final obligations and collateral for immigration review. Avoid counting a speculative earn-out or hoped-for savings as invested capital without examining the actual arrangement.
Show investment capital and business operating costs separately from government filing charges, professional fees, and family or travel expenses. The safest approach is to do the separation openly and early, with an allocation the seller signs and, where the amounts are significant, a valuation from someone independent. Trace lawful source and path, confirm when money became irrevocably committed and at risk, and document any refund condition accurately. Count only the investor’s actual qualifying commitment and never add an asset’s entire value again when payments merely purchase its use.