5 Tips for Selling a BusinessIf you’ve decided, the time to sell your business has arrived, follow these 5 tips to ensure

maximum profit. You’ll be happy you did!

Way back when you first started your business, you likely didn’t think about selling your

business down the road, or maybe you did. After a number of years of working really hard and

turning your business into a success, you deserve to get fair market value or higher for your

business.

1. Establish the Value of Your Business – There are a number of formulas that can be used to

determine the value, but it will include assets, cash flow, gross revenue, growth, and other

factors.

2. What are the True Financials – A small business legally reduces profits to enjoy the best tax

breaks. However, then when you are go to sell your business it will not reflect the real value of

your business, which is why you need to establish the true financials.

3.  Consider the Financing – If you want to sell your business quickly consider carrying the

person who wants to buy your business. Most small businesses are at least 75% owned and

financed by the owner. Increase the likelihood of a sale by offering to finance for 2 to 5 years at

current interest rates.

4. Keep it Quiet – Contrary to what you might think, you should not be telling the world your

business is for sale. While this might bring you good exposure, if your suppliers find out they

may close your line of credit or accounts payables. So hush!

5. Use a broker – A business broker will help you establish the right asking price to generate a

sale. Your broker will also qualify before releasing any of your personal information or exposing

your financials.

© 2011 Apptivo Inc. All rights reserved.

Now that you’ve decided to sell your business, you need to analyze it. When you’ve been

running your business over the years you might forget the real selling features of your business

and its actual value. So sit down, grab a pen and paper, write down a list in detail about your

businesses benefits including the perks that are relevant to your business. It doesn’t have to be

neat, just write what comes to your mind, and later you can tidy it up.

These 5 tips for a successful business sale will ensure your business sells and that you have the

cash flow you need to start your new life adventure.

© 2011 Apptivo Inc. All rights reserved.