The Red Flag Playbook

See the risk before it owns you.

Name: The Red Flag Playbook: Buying & Selling a Business — Don't Get Leased
Author: Carson Jones

Two practical field guides for investors and entrepreneurs who want to ask better questions, read between the lines and protect their capital.

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Built from real deals — not theory.

Real warning signs, hard-earned lessons and practical questions you can use before you invest, buy or sell.

For passive investors

A Tactical Guide for Passive Real Estate Investors

Smart people lose money in passive deals every day — not because they're reckless, but because no one taught them what to watch for. This book helps you vet the sponsor, structure and story before you commit a single dollar.

01How syndications work — and where they can break

02The questions every sponsor should be able to answer

03Fees, waterfalls, taxes and the math behind your return

04Real-world horror stories, red flag checklists and due-diligence steps

Best for: High earners, business owners and first-time LPs evaluating multifamily, self-storage, oil & gas and other alternative investments.

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Cover of The Red Flag Playbook: Buying and Selling a Business — Don't Get Leased

For buyers & sellers

Buying & Selling a Business: Don't Get Leased

A business can look profitable while the lease, liabilities or deal structure quietly destroys its value. Learn what to examine before you sign — and when the smartest deal is the one you walk away from.

01Why leases can make or break your deal — and how to negotiate from strength

02Red flags in financials that sellers hope you won't notice

03The hidden risks of relying on franchisor "preferred reps"

04Practical steps to protect yourself when financing, structuring or exiting

Best for: Entrepreneurs, acquisition buyers and owners preparing to scale or exit.

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"The expensive lesson is usually the one you could have spotted before closing."

Carson Jones · The Red Flag Playbook

About the author

Carson Jones

Carson is a finance professional, commercial real estate broker, multi-industry entrepreneur and host of Carson's Corner: Commercial Real Estate. His books draw from firsthand experience raising capital, evaluating operators and navigating real estate and business transactions — both the wins and the lessons that leave a mark.

InvestorOwner's perspective

BrokerTransaction experience

Author & HostCarson's Corner podcast

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Work With Carson

Selling, buying, or raising capital? Let's talk.

Brokerage, equity participation, and capital partnerships for commercial real estate owners, investors, and family offices — nationwide, through the eXp Commercial platform.

Email Carson Call 615-212-5524 Text Carson

Before the next deal

Know what to look for.

Start with the playbook written for the decision in front of you.

Passive Investing Buying or Selling a Business