Should I Sell My Business?

That’s a weighty question for any entrepreneur because the answer is often obfuscated by the reality of having to part with an entire livelihood most likely grown, nurtured and doted upon over many years.

But sometimes the time is right, for the betterment of the future of the business. But whether you’ve decided to take the plunge or not quite yet, that question often remains: should I?

In this article, we’ll unpack some boxes to tick, to hopefully bring you closer to a definitive answer.

What to consider when wanting to sell your business

1. What is the current market value of your business? Conducting a professional valuation can help determine how much potential buyers may be willing to pay.
2. What is the state of your financial records and documents? Potential buyers will want to see a clean and organized financial history.
3. What is the potential impact on your employees? Will they be able to continue their employment under new ownership, or will there need to be layoffs and restructuring?
4. What is the potential tax impact of selling your business? Seek the advice of a professional accountant or tax advisor to ensure that you are making the most financially advantageous decision.
5. Most importantly, what will you do after you sell the business? When business owners don’t know what to do next, they typically are not ready to let go.

Overall, it is important to carefully weigh all of these factors before committing to selling your business.

The advantages of selling your business

Selling your business can bring numerous benefits, including financial gain and the ability to move on to new opportunities.

Firstly, a successful sale can provide a significant return on investment. This not only allows for financial stability, but also opens up possibilities for retirement or reinvestment in other projects.

Additionally, selling your business can provide the opportunity to pursue new ventures or career paths. The sale frees up time and resources, allowing for fresh beginnings and growth potential.

Selling may be a difficult decision, but ultimately it can lead to positive outcomes for both you and your company.

When is it the right time to sell your business?

When it comes to selling your business, timing is everything. It’s important to consider factors such as market conditions, personal circumstances, and the financial health of the business before making any decisions. Additionally, being proactive in seeking potential buyers can help ensure a successful sale. Ultimately, the right time to sell your business is when you feel ready and confident in your decision.

Again, when the time is right, you will know.

Mistakes to avoid when wanting to sell your business

On the other side of the coin, here are just a few points to consider that often rear up as mishaps in the business sale process. Here’s what to try and avoid when a sale is the goal:

• Not properly preparing and researching the market before listing your business for sale
• Failing to consult with a trusted M&A advisor or broker
• Setting an unrealistic asking price
• Neglecting to clean up financial records and make necessary updates to your business
• Not properly marketing your business to potential buyers
• Not adequately addressing any potential red flags or negative aspects of your business
• Hurrying through the sale process without carefully considering offers and negotiating terms
• Not properly protecting your confidential information during the sale process
• Failing to thoroughly review and understand the final sales documents before signing
• Not planning for the transition process after the sale is complete

Selling a business can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to avoid these common mistakes in order to ensure a successful sale. So, consult with experienced professionals, carefully consider offers and terms, and properly prepare and market your business to potential buyers.

If want to learn more or think you are ready to sell your business, Destined can guide you through the M&A process from start to finish.