Sell Your Business

Selling a business with Larkspur Business Brokers

Take the stress out of selling your business. And get back to what you are good at, running your business.

Let the professionals at Larkspur Business Brokers take an action-oriented approach to get your business sold for more money in less time.

Ready to sell? We work with hundreds of buyers who are ready to purchase.

Considering selling your business?

Selling your business is something for which you need to plan carefully. Letting go of the company that you’ve built involves careful thinking, as well serious consideration of the financial, legal, tax, lifestyle and emotional process you’ll be facing.

At Larkspur Business Brokers, we understand what’s involved in selling a business, and we can help alleviate much of the stress traditionally associated with such a significant undertaking.

With experience helping owners just like you sell their businesses for top dollar, Clara Piedalue will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, and provide the expertise, experience and support you need through what can often be a challenging time. And with over 2,000 buyers in our database, odds are we’ll have someone who sees the value in your business.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation. Selling a business is a complex and challenging process with many potential pitfalls—we can save you time and effort, while helping to ensure that you avoid costly mistakes.

What to ask yourself when selling a business

• What are your reasons for selling? Define and thoroughly evaluate why you want to sell your business. Is it your best option? What alternatives might there be?
• Are you ready? Determine the best possible timing for you. Does it make sense to sell now? How does your family feel about selling?
• What will you do when you’ve sold? Are you ready for your retirement? Are you interested in continuing to work in the business? What will you do once you sell your business? Do you plan to buy another one?
• Is the money “there?” Evaluate your optimal terms and conditions for sale, then compare them to what you can reasonably expect to be paid for your business. Will selling your business give you the money you need to sustain your lifestyle? Will selling satisfy your financial needs for retirement or other activities?

Selling a business: other factors you may not have considered

• Buyers won’t see the same value in your business that you do. You’ve poured a lot of time, money and hard work into your business, but none of that matters when you’re selling. Before you go much further, get a professional appraisal done by qualified experts with a credible track record. The results may determine whether you move forward with the sale.
• Don’t wait too long. Sell before you’re burned out; far too many entrepreneurs hang on too long after their energy and enthusiasm for the business have deteriorated. This can diminish both the performance and the value of your business.
• Selling your business will take much longer than you think. You’ll need to build in enough time to optimize the sale of your business—including time to professionally and strategically market your business. A business broker can help here.
• Timing is critical. Market factors—supply and demand, shifting demographics, and the economic climate—can change. If you’re considering selling, get started as soon as you can so that you’re ready if you need to move fast.

Tips for selling a business the right way

• For most buyers, confidentiality is critical. Emphasize confidentiality with ALL of your professional associates including bankers, accountants, attorneys and consultants. Be especially cautious with casual friends and acquaintances. A confidentiality breach can kill a deal!
• Detailed financials are a must. Ensure that your books, records and financial statements are up-to-date. You’ll need to prepare at least 3 years of financial history that meets accredited standards. You’ll also want to provide appropriate financial projections and business potential forecasts for your prospective buyer.
• Before and during the sale, work harder than ever. Don’t get distracted by the sales process. Keep running your business as though you’re not going to sell—don’t stop marketing, try to trim expenses, or slow down in any area. And keep your operation in top shape so that your business is ready to present to buyers at any time.
• Be prepared to meet buyers, but screen them carefully. Be cautious about competitors posing as buyers—confirm the qualifications of prospective buyers and don’t present any confidential information until you’re sure that the buyer is serious. Consider using a business broker to act as an intermediary.