Questions and Answers about selling your business

Most people consult professionals for legal matters, to sell their homes or property, etc., but most business owners try to sell their businesses on their own. Selling a business is a serious and complex matter. A good business broker can market your business with the highest level of confidentiality and the least intrusion. The broker can help you determine your company's market value, advertise your sale through specialized media, qualify potential buyers, negotiate and configure the transaction. Can help the buyer buyer properly obtain financing through a network of commercial or SBA preferred lenders to meet your requirements.

1. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SELL?

The best time to sell is when you don't need to sell, and of course, when the business is doing well. It's best not to wait until you need to sell or after the business has peaked; the selling price can suffer; and if you need to sell to meet other obligations, health problems, divorce, etc., you will be at a disadvantage. However, if the sale is handled correctly, almost any business can be sold, even if it is not doing too well.

2. HOW MUCH IS MY BUSINESS WORTH?

A company's value depends on many factors-such as cash flow, asset values, financial history, condition of equipment and premises, lease attractiveness, competition, potential for improvement, location, industry type and the economy, among many others. We have unparalleled knowledge of real market values from selling many businesses each year. By analyzing your business and comparable sales in your industry, we can advise you on proper pricing strategy for your business.

3. CAN A REAL ESTATE AGENT SELL MY BUSINESS?

Probably not. While many business brokers are licensed to sell real estate, most real estate only agents do not know how to sell businesses. The techniques of pricing, selling and putting together the business transaction are altogether different from selling houses or commercial property. And, it's virtually impossible for a real estate agent to get the confidential exposure to qualified buyers that a major business brokerage can.

4. WHAT ABOUT THE MARKETING FEE?

There are no up front fees or costs. The marketing fee is paid only if your business sells. Even the advertising is paid by us. Most sellers have found that the cost of using our services is more than offset by the value they have gained from our expertise and access to buyers.

5. WHY NOT SELL THE BUSINESS MYSELF?

Most owners find that the frustration, expense and time involved do not yield cost savings. In fact, because they don't have access to a large number of qualified buyers, many owners end up selling their business for much less than they could have through a well established business broker. And, owners find it difficult to work direct with buyers and maintain confidentiality. If a key employee or competitor learns the business is for sale, the value of the business could be damaged.