How to Sell a Business

Selling a business is a major decision that requires strategic marketing, knowledge, negotiation and support. Whether you're looking to retire, pursue a new venture, or simply move on, understanding the key steps in the selling process can help you maximize value and ensure a smooth transition. We've put together a free guide to walk you through everything you need to know — from business valuation to finding the right buyer to negotiating the deal and closing successfully. If you're looking to sell a business, follow these best practices to achieve the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell my business without a broker?

Many owners wonder how to sell a business by owner to save on fees. While selling a business without a broker is entirely possible, it requires handling your own business valuation, confidential marketing, and legal paperwork, all while trying to run your business. Often times, business owners fail at one or more of these things when trying to take on everything. Our free guide outlines the exact steps to sell a company independently, while highlighting where a broker can help save you time and maximize your final sale price.

Is it possible to sell a business quickly?

A selling timeline depends on many different factors, from your industry, your location, the current economy and of course your company's financial strength. If you want or need to sell your business quickly, preparation will be everything. Having clean financial statements, an accurate business valuation, and an active pool of pre-qualified buyers are the fastest ways to shorten the closing timeline.

Where do I sell my business?

When deciding where to sell a business, owners often look at public listing sites which can be important. However, there are other places to sell a company such as through a confidential network that protects your employee and competitor relations while matching you directly with serious buyers. It's often best to list your business on many different sites in addition to tapping into private buyer databases. These can be accessed easily by working with a business broker.