Preparing for a Business Sale

Planning for the sale of your business can seem overwhelming.  The process requires thoughtful planning, preparation and execution.  The total time can take up to a year, or longer.  For many owners, the process can be a real distraction just at a time when it is critical to keep the business running smoothly. 

That’s where we come in.  We understand the complexities of a sale.  It affects your employees, your customers, your financial security, and your legacy.  That’s a lot for anyone.

We take charge of the entire process, advising you and presenting options to meet your goals.  Typically, our role includes the following;

• Determining a realistic range of value for the business. Each buyer will place their own value on the business depending on their assessment of risk and future cash flows.
• Preparing marketing materials for the business and identifying strategic buyers since these buyers will pay a premium.
• Conduct the campaign while maintaining confidentiality. We reach out to buyers, secure Non-Disclosure Agreements, and initiate discussions with the goal of securing a Letter of Intent, which is a non-binding summary of terms subject to due diligence.
• Supervise buyer due diligence. This is the make-or-break phase of the process.  Buyers want to review contracts, agreements, bank statements, and more, drilling down and examining the details to gain a deep understanding of your business and related risks.  As your representative, we get you prepared for this phase to minimize any disruption to the business.The buyer deals directly with us, not you, and we coordinate the response to all buyer requests. 
• Vet the buyers and evaluate offers with you. You have the final decision to move forward with an offer, reject the offer, or counter-offer.  We offer advice and help you during these negotiations, but you make the final decision.
• Assist with the closing process. We always recommend you engage an attorney and tax advisor to assist with contractual agreements and the related income tax effects of a sale.We are available to assist with gathering required documents needed for close and coordinating the flow of information.