An innovative strategy I have used to finance acquisitions is a combination of seller financing, down payments, and earn-outs or profit sharing. Seller financing on its own sets the buyer and seller up for failure. However, if a seller note is combined with a significant down payment, the seller knows that the buyer is serious and has cash on-hand that holds the buyer accountable. In addition, earn-outs and profit sharing can close valuation gaps, as well as help the buyer spread out debt obligations.