Exit Planning Techniques By Market
Selling a Flood Assistance Business
Many business leaders say that now isn't the time to try to sell a flood assistance business. At Gaebler, we think it's a great time to sell a flood assistance business. Here's why . . ..
The business-for-sale market is just as frustrating for buyers as it is for sellers these days. Although there are plenty of entrepreneurs who want to buy a flood assistance business, capital restrictions are holding them back.
There are many factors involved with the decision to sell a business. Knowledgeable entrepreneurs understand that market timing isn't nearly as important as other factors in a flood assistance business sale. You just need to know your buyers and structure the deal accordingly.
Maintaining Objectivity
Objectivity is a rare commodity in a business sale. Your estimate of your company's worth is probably skewed by your emotions and your close, personal connection to the business. It is difficult for many owners to accept the cold, hard facts about their company's worth, but objectivity is the name of the game in a successful flood assistance business sale. A business broker can be a valuable resource in right-sizing your expectations and preparing you for market realities.
Advantages of Hiring a Broker
A good broker can offer several benefits to business sellers. Right out of the gate, brokers know how to help their clients properly prepare their businesses for a sale. More importantly, brokers have the ability to identify serious buyers and maintain confidentiality throughout the sale process. Typical brokerage rates (a.k.a. success fees) run 10% of the final price - an expense that is usually recouped through a higher sales price and less time on the market.
Closing Strategies
Like it or not, prospective buyers are going to ask you to make certain concessions in the sale of your flood assistance business. Concessions can consist of non-cash as well as cash incentives. When you've reached your limit on price, consider offering non-cash concessions to encourage a commitment from the buyer. In the current economy, seller financing is becoming common in flood assistance business sales. If the prospect is inexperienced or lacks credentials in the industry, you can also offer to stay with the business for a specified period of time to help the new owner get on his feet and introduce him to your network of industry contacts.
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