Exit Planning Techniques By Market

Selling a Fulfillment Services Business

With the economy struggling to rebound, the shadow inventory of fulfillment services businesses in the business-for-sale marketplace seems to be rising. That could make this the perfect time to list a successful fulfillment services business

You've invested too much in your fulfillment services business to let it be sold for less than its worth. But unless you adequately prepare for the sale, some lucky buyer may walk away with a huge discount.

If you're ready to move on, now is the right time to sell your fulfillment services business.

Average Timeframes

Hoping for a quick fulfillment services business sale? You may be disappointed. Unfortunately, there are no hard and fast rules about the length of time your business will be on the market. Pricing plays a role in sale length, but there are no guarantees that a fairly priced business will sell quickly. Before you can list your fulfillment services business, you'll need to invest as much as a year in preparing it for prospective buyers. Even though it's conceivable that an attractive opportunity could sell in weeks, an immediate flood of offers could indicate that the business is underpriced.

Tips for Seller Financing

Capital is hard to come by these days. Banks and other lending institutions aren't eager to lend to unproven and undercapitalized fulfillment services business buyers regardless of the business's potential. Rather than abandon their plans entirely, many buyers are pursuing finance concessions from sellers. Although 100% seller financing isn't recommended, sellers are financing up to 70% of the sale price to close deals.

How to Choose a Business Broker

Good business brokers inevitably produce better business sales. During the selection process, look for brokers with a proven track record of successful fulfillment services business sales. Take our word for it -- fulfillment services businesses are unique businesses and you need a broker who understands how to properly market your fulfillment services business to prospective buyers. The best brokers should also come with a list of references, a demonstrable track record and a proven plan for selling fulfillment services businesses.

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