Seller Preparation Guide

Get your business ready for a successful sale with our comprehensive preparation guide

Download Complete Preparation Checklist

Get our step-by-step checklist covering all aspects of business preparation

Preparation Timeline

6 Months
Start organizing financials, clean up records, document processes
4 Months
Reduce owner dependency, strengthen team, fix operational issues
2 Months
Prepare marketing materials, get valuation, organize data room
Listing Day
All documentation ready, business running smoothly, ready to engage buyers

1. Financial Documentation

Clean, organized financials are the foundation of a successful sale. Buyers want to see clear, accurate records.

  • •3-Year History: Prepare P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow statements
  • •Clean Records: Fix any accounting errors or inconsistencies
  • •Add-backs: Document legitimate expenses to add back to profit
  • •Tax Compliance: Ensure all tax filings are current and accurate

2. Legal & Compliance

Ensure all legal aspects are in order to avoid deal delays or failures.

  • •Licenses Current: All business licenses and permits must be valid and transferable
  • •Contracts Organized: Compile all customer, supplier, and employee contracts
  • •IP Protected: Verify ownership of trademarks, patents, domains
  • •No Disputes: Clear any pending legal issues before listing

3. Operations & Systems

Document everything so a new owner can run the business smoothly.

  • •SOPs: Create standard operating procedures for all key processes
  • •Org Chart: Document team structure and key responsibilities
  • •Systems: List all technology, software licenses, and logins
  • •Assets: Inventory all equipment, inventory, and physical assets

Maximize Your Business Value

💡Reduce Owner Dependency: Show the business can run without you

💡Diversify Revenue: Reduce customer concentration risk

💡Document Growth: Show clear path for future expansion

💡Clean Operations: Fix any operational inefficiencies

💡Strong Team: Build a capable management team

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