Independent guide

Letter of Intent (LOI) for Buying an Online Business

An LOI is typically used to record the major commercial understanding before the parties invest more time and money in final diligence and definitive documents.

Updated September 14, 2026Educational research
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What an LOI is for

An LOI can summarize price, structure, assets or equity being acquired, expected timing, diligence conditions and other major business terms. Its role is to reduce ambiguity before detailed documents are negotiated.

Binding and non-binding terms

Some LOI provisions may be intended as non-binding while others—such as confidentiality, exclusivity, expenses or governing law—may be binding. Never assume the label “LOI” determines legal effect.

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Price and consideration

State not only the headline price but also cash at close, seller financing, earnouts, holdbacks, inventory treatment and any working-capital assumptions.

Diligence and conditions

Describe what diligence remains, which approvals are required and whether financing or third-party consents are conditions to closing.

Exclusivity

Sellers should understand how long they are restricted from negotiating with other buyers and what milestones the buyer must meet during that period.

Move to definitive documents carefully

Platform LOI builders can make workflow easier, but the legal consequences of a specific transaction require professional review appropriate to the parties and jurisdiction.

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