For Sellers: The Business Sales Process

Selling your business is a significant milestone that requires careful planning and execution. A well-structured sale process ensures you maximize value, find the right buyer, and achieve a smooth transition. From preparing your financials to negotiating terms and closing the deal, each stage plays a critical role in securing the best outcome. Here’s how we work:

1. Initial Consultation & Business Valuation 

   • Understand the sellers goals, timeline, and desired exit strategy.

   • Conduct a preliminary valuation based on financials, industry trends, and market demand.

2. Financial Readiness

   • If required, carry out a thorough cleaning exercise of the financial statements. 

3. Operational Readiness

   • Ensure appropriate processes are put in place to maximise the business desirability and valuation. 

   • Support in the hiring of staff to ensure the management structure is in place to maximise the desirability and valuation. 

4. Confidential Marketing & Buyer Vetting

   • Create a confidential business profile and market it discreetly to pre-vetted buyers.

NOTE: WE DO NOT MARKET YOUR BUSINESS ON THE OPEN MARKET AND BROKER SITES. 

5. Buyer Introductions & Negotiation

   • Present qualified buyers and facilitate sale discussions.

   • Work with the seller to negotiate and secure the best possible terms for sale.

6. Heads of Terms & Due Diligence

   • Once a buyer is selected, request a Heads of Terms(HoT)/ Letter of Intent(LoI) outlining key deal points.

   • A non-binding document outlining agreed terms between buyer and seller before proceeding to enhanced due diligence.

   • Review the HoT/ LoI to ensure all agreed deal points are included. 

   • The buyer conducts financial, operational, and legal due diligence to confirm the business’s value.

7. Finalizing the Sale

   • Work with legal teams to finalize the Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA).

   • Contracts are signed, and ownership is transferred.

8. Business Handover & Post-Sale Transition

   • Facilitate a smooth transition period, whether you’re staying on temporarily or exiting immediately.

   • Help ensure continuity for employees, clients, and operations where stipulated in the SPA.

By following this structured approach, we maximize your sale price, protect your interests, and ensure a seamless transition.

Get in Touch 

If you have worked hard all these years and would now like to retire, start something new or realise the fruits of your efforts, Ironwood Capital Partners is here to guide you every step of the way. 

Contact us today to explore your opportunities in the world of M&A.