Exit Planning Advice By Market

Selling an Animal Specialty Business

Is the economy still a little shaky for a business sale? Sure it is. Yet animal specialty businesses continue to sell at a brisk pace, regardless of the economy.

Business sellers are notorious for second-guessing themselves about the right time to put their companies up for sale.

Success is a factor of preparation, execution and a keen eye for the market. As a business seller, you need to go into the process with the mental goal of presenting your business in the best possible light.

Leveraging Seller Concessions

Seller concessions are becoming more commonplace in business-for-sale transactions. By far, seller financing is the most sought-after concession, especially in the current economic environment. Capital is scarce, causing new entrepreneurs to rely on sellers to finance at least part of the purchase price. If you are unwilling or unable to offer financing, be prepared to offer other types of concessions to close the deal.

Advertising Your Sale

Successful animal specialty business sales incorporate comprehensive advertising plans. However, confidentiality and other concerns can present challenges, even for sales professionals. The knowledge that your business is being sold almost always converts into negative PR with your customers and vendors. Business brokers are skilled at publicizing animal specialty business sales while maintaining the confidentiality that is critical to your business.

Benefits of Third-Party Assistance

Rarely, if ever, do owners sell an animal specialty business without outside assistance. Although it's wise to recruit a business broker, brokerage isn't your only concern. Additionally, you may want to hire professionals for legal, valuation and other functions before you put your business on the market. In most cases, your sale strategy will call for the assistance of outside professionals at various stages throughout the process. Early recruitment makes it easier to execute your strategy without unnecessary interruptions.

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