Business brokers can save both purchasers and vendors a considerable amount of time in fruitless searching. They maintain contacts with large numbers of both buyers and sellers, and can often act as match-makers between the parties. However, a prospective purchaser should always remember that business brokers legally represent the seller, and should be cautious about telling them certain details (such as how far they are willing to go in negotiations). A broker, on the other hand, can help the buyer clarify exactly what kind of business the purchaser is looking for, eliminate the ones that aren’t going to work out, keep discussions cordial and smart, and assist the buyer with all the paperwork. When a transaction closes, brokers are paid a commission, which is usually paid by the seller.