Buyer Checklist Questions to Ask Before Buying a Child Care Center

Before purchasing a child-care center, request and review all licensing and inspection reports, accreditation documentation, capacity and recent enrollment trends, full financials (profit & loss, balance sheet, and tax returns), and any outstanding liabilities or regulatory violations. Thoroughly evaluate staffing by obtaining staff rosters, proof of qualifications and certifications (CPR, early-childhood credentials), background-check records, turnover statistics, and payroll and benefits obligations. Inspect the physical site, including facility condition, safety compliance, equipment inventories, and whether the business operates under a lease or owned property — and review the lease terms if applicable. Clarify operational matters such as current tuition rates, parent contracts and deposit/refund policies, waitlist length, curriculum and daily schedules, and primary marketing or referral sources. Ask the seller why they are selling. Finally, engage a CPA, an attorney, and an early-childhood consultant to complete due diligence and to plan a smooth transition. #referral #schedules #balance #background #records