Be Ready When You Are Ready

When a business owner says it’s time to sell, I ask, “How fast do you want to be out?” The answer I hear most is, “Yesterday.” But sellers underestimate how long the process takes. Once we sign our engagement agreement with the business owner, it takes about 9 to 12 months to sell. After that, expect a six-month to one-year transition.

In an ideal world, you’d be working with an advisor months and even years before you put your business on the market. But you can catch up quickly. There are things you can do to maximize value or better position your company for sale.

The more you plan, the more options you will have at the time of your exit.

Figure out what you want and then work the numbers backwards. Start talking with your advisors now, so when you’re ready, you’re ready.

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What our clients are saying...

“It is a privilege to write a letter of recommendation on behalf of Business Transition Strategies. …As with any family business, negotiations need to be handled delicately and, as with any sale, both parties need to be satisfied with the end result. Quite frankly, without their help, this could not have been achieved. John Howe and Ken Schaefer skillfully analyzed the books and were able to bridge the gap between the sellers’ belief of what the company was worth and its actual worth. Their style is objective, straightforward, thorough and kind in the delivery of their assessment. After the sale was achieved to both parties’ satisfaction, John and Ken were hired to help with the adjustment of the acquisition and the financial health of the company moving forward. I can highly recommend this talented group of experienced business advisors to any company in need of clear and thoughtful company planning and adjustments.”

- Jane Longden

Decora