Founders Exit Group: The Six Steps to Selling Your Small Company

  • Prepare Your Business

    Take time to get your business in the best shape possible before putting it on the market. Clean up your financial records, streamline operations, and address any potential weaknesses. Take steps to boost sales and profits if possible, or at least show consistent performance. Proper preparation makes the sale process much smoother and helps you get a better price.  

  • Determine Valuation

    One of the first questions a buyer will ask is: “What is this business worth?” Determining a realistic valuation for your company is critical. Many small businesses are valued as a multiple of annual profit or cash flow, but the right method depends on your industry and situation. The goal is to maximize value without overpricing.

  • Find Potential Buyers

    With your business ready and a target price in mind, it’s time to find the right buyer. This step is about marketing your business, positioning it in the best light, and reaching qualified prospects.  An investment banking advisor like Founders Exit Group can handle the heavy lifting of finding and screening to find the most compelling buyers.

  • Due Diligence

    After the LOI, the buyer will comb through every aspect of your business. This is often the most demanding part for you as a seller. Be prepared to supply detailed documentation and answer in-depth questions. Don’t be afraid to confirm the buyer’s ability to pay, their plans for the business, or any other aspect that’s important to you.

  • Close the Deal

    This is the moment everything becomes official. “Closing” typically refers to signing all documents and transferring funds/ownership. You will confirm all payments, tackle closing logistics, and craft a press release or public announcement if appropriate. And after closing, congratulate yourself on this major achievement.

  • Life After Your Sale

    Perhaps the most forgotten key to a successful sale is understanding what comes after. Consider how to manage your profits strategically. Frame potential plans in advance, whether that be travel, consulting, or tackling your bucket list. Good preparation is essential to your successful new lifestyle beyond the business.

For more articles and expertise for the small business owner preparing to sell, visit our FEG resource library.

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Why Choose Founders Exit Group

When selling your small business (generally companies valued greater than $3 million) choosing the right advisor may be one of the most critical decisions that you make.

Founders Exit Group offers high-level, personalized strategic advisory usually reserved for much larger companies.

Incorporating exciting advances in technology and AI, our US based team streamlines the selling process for you, developing custom marketing for your unique business, accelerating the discovery of executable leads, and getting your company into the market and to a transaction closing much faster.

This powerful formula is what makes Founders Exit Group so effective in the execution of efficient and successful deals for our clients. We will personally guide you through every step to achieve your maximum exit.

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    Personalized, Strategic Guidance

    Unlike business brokers who simply list your business for sale, our team at Founders Exit Group provides in-depth, personalized advisory services tailored to your unique situation. We take the time to understand your objectives, assess your company’s strengths, and craft a customized strategy to maximize your business’s value.

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    Comprehensive Financial Expertise

    Our M&A experts at Founders Exit Group bring sophisticated financial analysis and industry-specific insights to the sale of your business. Instead of relying on simple valuation methods, our investment bankers utilize detailed financial modeling and market intelligence to present your company’s true potential to prospective buyers.

  • Founders Exit Group Global Networks

    Broad and Qualified Buyer Network

    Founders Exit Group has built an extensive network of qualified corporate buyers, private equity groups, and strategic investors worldwide, creating competition that drives higher valuations and better terms. In contrast, most business brokers often have limited reach, primarily marketing your business locally or regionally.

  • Founders Exit Group High-Touch Execution

    High-Touch, Professional Execution

    Our investment bankers manage every aspect of your transaction, from meticulous preparation and targeted buyer outreach to rigorous negotiations and deal structuring. This high-touch approach emphasizes confidentiality, minimizes disruption, and provides you peace of mind throughout the entire process.

Experience the Founders Exit Group Difference

Selling your business deserves more than just a transaction. It deserves expert strategy, personalized service, and superior outcomes. Discover how our unique investment banking approach can deliver results that surpass your expectations.

Schedule your free consultation today with Founders Exit Group to see how we can maximize the value of your business sale.