There was a study done, years ago, that showed that the reason businesses were for sale had a direct relationship to its probability of sale. Reason for Sale %Reason for Sale %Probability of Sale Retirement 10-15% 30-35% Health Problems/Death 15-20%…
Many people who are selling their business think that once they find a buyer, the business is sold. Unfortunately, the real work is just beginning. Once a buyer is interested, there are the inevitable questions that must be answered. After…
Prepare for new management. As soon as you make the decision to sell, begin doing what you can to help the business run “on its own.” The business should not, especially now, be just you! Accept the financing facts. You’ll…
If you’re considering selling your business, and you are employing a professional business broker or intermediary, it’s imperative to be absolutely open with him or her. This is not the time for secrecy — or even for subtlety, especially when…
Buyers Want Cash Flow The first thing to keep in mind is that the vast majority of buyers want to buy cash flow. Sit down with your accountant or bookkeeper and begin to get your financial statements in order with…
Do have all of your business documentation ready. Everything starts with it. Don’t underestimate the value of your business. Owners of privately held businesses usually minimize profits to lower taxes. The financial statements may not reflect the real value of…
Some of you might remember the commercial for one of the major airlines in which a business lost a major client, because they never saw anyone from the company. The president handed out airline tickets to the entire sales staff…
In the day-to-day activity of making a business work, many owners overlook the importance of the buy-sell agreement. This document (also referred to as a business continuity agreement) is like a will; no one thinks about it until it’s too…
There are several things to consider when buying or selling a business. The most important is to listen to the other side. There are always reasons why someone wants something – even if you don’t agree at first. Find out…