Give early attention to basic issues

You want to sell your business - You want best value and so does the purchaser

Selling a business is like any other transaction. Buyers want value for money and an attractive proposition that meets their criteria. They won't do the seller any favours. But the shrewd buyer will recognise a good thing and, with the right management of the sale, will go the extra mile to secure the purchase.

Prospective buyers will pay a premium for a going concern which is in the best possible condition at acquisition and which is well placed to grow profitably.

For the seller, giving early attention to a checklist of basic issues will result in a quicker sale for more money. Think about and then take action on the following issues before you go to market:

  • The ability of the business to function without you
  • Maximising profits and showing an upward trend
  • Maintaining good credit control and disposing of surplus assets
  • Maximising cash
  • Developing a competent, supportive management team
  • Producing realistic financial projections
  • Showing a record of hitting or exceeding budget
  • Creating plans for strategic development that show the business potential
  • Ensuring all intellectual property is protected
  • Settling any litigation and taking steps to ensure that it does not happen again
  • Resolving any tax issues with your tax advisers
  • Filing your accounts on time.

Home | Who are you? | You want to sell your business