Guides for owners thinking about selling
Plain-language guides for business owners thinking about selling: timing, valuation, preparation, buyers, employees and deal terms.
How Do You Know It's Time to Sell Your Business?
The personal and business signs that point toward a sale, and why the timing of your exit can matter as much as the price.
What Is My Business Worth? How Buyers Value Service Companies
How buyers measure earnings, why two companies with the same profit can sell for very different prices, and what you can do to raise your value.
Preparing Your Business for Sale: What to Do One to Three Years Out
A practical checklist for the years before a sale, from cleaning up the books to making the business less dependent on you.
Broker or Direct Buyer? Two Ways to Sell Your Business
How listing with a business broker compares with selling directly to a long-term owner, and how to decide which path fits your goals.
What Happens to Your Employees After You Sell?
For many owners, their team is the biggest worry about selling. Here's what usually happens, what to ask buyers, and when to tell your people.
Deal Terms Explained: Cash at Closing, Seller Financing and Earnouts
Why the headline price is only part of an offer, and how cash at closing, seller notes, earnouts and other terms change what you take home.
Keeping More of What You Built: How Deal Structure Affects Your Taxes
The same sale price can leave you with very different amounts after tax. Here's how structure shapes your tax bill, and how we work with sellers and their advisors to plan for it.
Succession Planning When Your Kids Don't Want the Business
Many owners hope to pass the company to their children. When that isn't the plan, here's how to think through your options and protect what you built.
How to Sell Your Business Confidentially
Word of a sale can unsettle employees, customers, and competitors. Here's how owners keep the process quiet until the right time.
What Happens During Due Diligence?
After you accept an offer, the buyer verifies everything about your business. Here's what they look at, how long it takes, and how to make it go smoothly.
The Letter of Intent, Explained
The letter of intent sets the terms of your sale before the final contract. Here's what it covers, what's binding, and what to look for before you sign.
Choosing Your Advisors for a Business Sale
The right CPA, attorney, and financial planner can protect your price and your peace of mind. Here's what each one does and how to choose them.
Selling a Landscaping or Pool Service Company: What Buyers Look For
Outdoor service businesses have their own strengths and risks. Here's what buyers focus on when they evaluate landscaping, turf, tree, and pool companies.
Selling a Family-Owned Trade Business
HVAC, plumbing, electrical, excavation, and other trade companies are in demand with buyers. Here's what they value and how family ownership affects a sale.
Permanent Owners vs. Private Equity: What's the Difference?
Both buy established businesses, but they plan very differently for what comes after. Here's how their goals and timelines affect your company, your team, and your legacy.
What the First 90 Days Look Like After You Sell to Us
Owners often worry most about what happens the day after closing. Here's how we approach the first three months with your team, your customers, and you.