How do you know when the time is right to exit the business?
Two factors – market conditions and business conditions – will determine the value and price of the business.  Ideally, to obtain the highest price, both should be at their peak.  Like the stock market, the market for small businesses is volatile.  Business conditions – how well the firm is doing, including the owner's mindset and attitude - also impact exit timing.  When things are going well, few owners think about selling.  With a company in decline or losing money, the time to sell may have passed.   In general, it is best to sell when the company is on a solid growth track and the owner is still having fun.  

Represeenting Small Business Owneres...A Process Rather Than An EventHow do I determine the price for my business?
Don't do it.  Hire an expert.  Realistic pricing pays off in successful transactions closed.  Unfortunately, too many small business owners have a significantly inflated opinion of the value of their firm.  And, in the final analysis, it will be the "terms" of the deal rather than price that determine the ultimate value of the transaction.

Why not let my attorney negotiate the deal?
Don't use lawyers or accountants to negotiate business terms.  Do use lawyers after the basic agreement has been reached.  Always have your attorney prepare the first draft the original documents.

Why use an intermediary?
An article in INC. Magazine reported that less than one-third of the small businesses brought to market are actually sold.  According to TEC speaker Peter Collins, "Most business owners only sell the business once.  Most buyers buy many times.  So they have a distinct advantage.  No matter how sophisticated you may be when it comes to running your business, selling it is whole different ball game.  Try to do it on your own and you will likely get taken to the cleaners."

Another TEC speaker, Phillip Currie agrees: "In addition to their knowledge and experience, intermediaries also provide the critical ability to assess the deal from a third-party perspective.  They offer a sort of 'emotional firewall,' that keeps you from getting too caught up in the feelings that surround the deal.  Granted, these kinds of professionals don't come cheap.  But in most cases, you more than offset the fees by gaining a higher price for your business."

How much will it cost to retain Globe National Corporation?
Our fees depend on the scope of the engagement.  A mutually satisfactory fee agreement will be arranged after our Preliminary Evaluation of the assignment.  There is no charge for this evaluation.

 

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