Selling a Business Advice
Selling an Investments Business
With the economy limping along, many investments business owners are hesitant to put their businesses on the market. At Gaebler, we think it's a great time to sell an investments business. Here's why . . ..
An assortment of hurdles and obstacles stand between you and the successful sale of your investments business.
Although it takes hard work and dedication, if it's time to exit your investments business there is a good chance you can sell it for a good price -- even in today's market.
Laying the Groundwork
A successful investments business sale begins with careful planning. Although you are convinced your business has value in the marketplace, the planning process establishes a framework for communicating its value to prospective buyers. A first-rate business broker can give your business an edge by facilitating the preparation process and orienting your presentation toward today's buyers. At a minimum, you'll want to position your business to receive the highest possible sale price, prepare a packet for prospective buyers and perform an initial appraisal before you put your investments business on the market.
Leveraging Seller Concessions
In the current marketplace, seller concessions can make the difference between a business sale and an investments business that languishes on the market for months or even years. 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. Other common seller concessions include staying on the mentor the new owner, non-compete clauses, and working as a consultant to mitigate the impact of new ownership.
Are You the Right Person to Sell Your Business?
An unassisted business sale is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, no one knows your business better than you do. When it comes to earnings potential, asset condition, and other considerations, you are the world's leading expert on your company. The problem is that your passion for your business can also sabotage your sale. Nearly all sellers have an inflated sense of their company's value. At a minimum, conduct an independent appraisal of the investments business to gain an objective sense of fair market value.
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