Selling a Business
It's no secret. The decision to sell your business is difficult. The economy and your business are always changing. As a business owner who is considering an ownership transition, there are several key factors to consider: the state of your business, valuation, involvement post-sale, and the type of buyer that you are seeking.
For small businesses, one of the biggest decisions is whether to sell to an internal or external party. For internal buyers (key employees or management), the key steps include valuation and financing. We help by advising on structure and managing the key steps. We also serve on a limited consulting basis for companies who already have a buyer and need insight on financing, deal structure, and other exit related issues.
A transaction with a third-party buyer, whether an individual or company, is more completed and requires a specific approach to be successful. We realize that as a business owner, you've invested countless hours and resources into building your company and want to ensure its next owner will steward your business and employees. Our goal is to get the best price and terms available in the market, while also ensuring they are the "right fit." We do this by working with you to create a marketing package and only introduce you and the company to qualified parties. The process generally consists of ten steps, listed on the right.
Sell-Side Process
- Discovery Meeting - Get to know us as we get to know you and your business to ensure a mutual fit.
- Identify Your Objectives - What are your goals? Do you have a financial number in mind? What is your timing?
- Evaluate Your Company - What are your company's strengths? Weaknesses? Opportunities? Threats?
- Valuation - What is your business worth in today's market?
- Assess the Market - Who does your business appeal to?
- Develop & Execute Strategic Marketing Plan - This includes finding and creating a target buyer list and Information Memorandum.
- Offers - We help you review offers and negotiate the best outcome.
- Due Diligence - We facilitate due diligence and coordinate with other advisors.
- Final negotiations - This includes the purchase agreement and related documents.
- Closing - Congratulations! You've successfully sold your business!
Curious what your business is worth?
Unlike real estate, valuing a business is more art than science. All businesses are unique -- no two bring the same employees, business profile, or competitive advantage. Click below to learn more about how we help with valuation.