There are many methods of maintaining confidentiality when selling a business. The most popular methods are the use of non-disclosure agreements, teaser documents, blind ads and online data rooms. However, it is important to note that the secret to keeping the sale a secret from start to end lies in working with an experienced business broker 92155.
While selling on your own offers a great way to avoid the costs that come with working with a broker, leveraging the expertise of a business broker 92155 trusts will guarantee a faster sale and better price. This is because a business broker has more experience selling businesses and buyers will not link him to your business. In this post, we will not be dwelling too much on the importance of working with a broker but rather on the importance of diligence when selling a business. Let’s get started.
Diligence is the step that comes after potential buyers have reviewed information about your business in the online data room. After the review, you will start getting offers. In most cases, each offer will be contingent on you agreeing to stop discussions with other potential buyers. You will also need to provide the bidder with a due diligence period of two to three months.
Once you agree, the buyer will send a representative to your business and request detailed information. The representatives may want to talk to customers and take a look at your contracts. They will also inspect your office or physical plant and take a look at how things are done. They will also speak with the salespeople and ask questions to understand your business’ formula for success. At this point, full disclosure will be needed.
It is imperative that you protect yourself. The key is to perform your own due diligence on potential buyers before accepting any offer. Check the following:
- The buyer’s history of making acquisitions. If the buyer has never done any acquisition, that might be a red flag. This is more so when dealing with M&A companies.
- History of the acquirer when it comes to walking away from deals. The reputation of an acquirer has to be considered. Steer clear of acquirers that have a history of making offers and walking away after diligence. This is because they will walk out on you too.
- History of last-minute changes to the offer. You don’t want to deal with a buyer that gets you hooked only to introduce new terms days before the scheduled closing. Such acquirers know you have invested a lot and walking away will be hard.
Selling a business requires a sober mind. Never be in a hurry to sell. Take time to evaluate all your options and settle only for the best buyer. Working with an experienced business broker in San Diego will increase the chances of selling for the right terms, price and to the best buyer.