How To Sell a Company With a Business Broker In Maryland
Essential Factors When Selling a Business
Earnings
Profitability gets the most attention. It will determine the price someone is willing to pay and its desirability. Additionally, the quality of earnings is essential. Earnings that are inconsistent or declining are not desirable and will affect the value of the business.
Asking Price
The asking price is based on a combination of factors, but seller discretion earnings (SDE) usually have the biggest influence on it. It is critical that you don’t set the asking price too low, leave money on the table, or raise it too high, and get zero interest in your business. We offer free rules of thumb to help you properly price your business.
Due Diligence Readiness
After the price and terms are agreed to, you will enter a due diligence phase. This is where the buyer inspects every aspect of your business in great detail. They may bring in accountants, specialists, and other professionals to inspect financials, equipment, and operations. Any discrepancies in the business representation could be a deal breaker or lead to further negotiation.
Transferability
Your business needs to be able to run without you. A person of reasonable skill in your industry should be able to operate the business in your absence using your employees, equipment, and operating procedures. Failure to have a company that can’t operate without you will sell for less and be more difficult.
Bankability
A bankable business is one to which a lender will loan money based on assets, cash flow, and financial history. The more bankable your company is, the more money you can expect. Some businesses don’t have a lot of assets and may be less bankable, but they are still valuable. It may be necessary for the seller to hold a promissory note to make the deal work.
Record Keeping
Good records are a requirement if you want to get the true value of your business. Tax returns, profit & loss, balance sheets, payroll, and equipment lists are required for at least three years.
Understanding the Market Trends
Selling a business in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and the Virginia Market is more complicated if you don’t understand the market. Business brokers will likely fail if they don’t spend time analyzing the current market conditions. Methods for selling a company have changed along with technology and the speed at which business transactions happen. The practices that worked in the DMV area just a few years ago have stopped getting the results they once did. We researched market trends and used this data to improve our business selling methods.
What are the benefits of using a business broker in Maryland?
- Maryland Business Brokers Understand The DMV Unique Market
- Knowledge of Business Valuations in the DMV
- Provide a Custom Exit Strategy for Your Company
- Everything is Private and Confidential
- Database of Buyers in the DMV
Systematic Approach
A systematic approach is necessary to sell a business in today’s marketplace. Business buyers have access to information about business and industry that makes them more informed than ever. Companies must be prepared for due diligence and information requests made by knowledgeable buyers. Your company will only sell quickly at the highest price if adequately prepared. You can also schedule a call to determine how much your business is worth. Selling a business is not easy and needs to be done correctly to get the most money for the sale of your company.
Due Diligence
The key to a successful transaction is preparation. Your company must be ready for due diligence long before the first potential buyer looks at your business. Business owners must address any objectionable issues a company may have before their business is presented to buyers. This saves time and maximizes what buyers are willing to pay. Most companies have some negatives that can be eliminated or minimized by planning for the objection. Develop a strategy to eliminate or reduce the issue so your company sells for more money in less time. Go to our FAQ’s for more information about selling a business. You can also schedule a free phone call to discuss the best strategy to market your business for sale without anyone knowing it’s for sale.
