What Matters Most to Business Buyers?

By Murphy Business & Financial Corporation LLC

An established business has much to offer a prospective buyer. A proven product or service exists, as well as a customer base. Typically, there are experienced employees and managers in place (and many choose to remain with the company after the sale is complete). There is a cash flow from the first day the buyer takes over the business. The company is already accustomed to paying its debt service in addition to a reasonable salary for the owner. The following are some of the things that will make your business stand out and be attractive to buyers:

• Proven verifiable books and records, tax returns
• Reasonable Price
• Leverage and terms, They want to use bank financing, owner financing and as little of their own money as possible
• Solid, verifiable cash flow
• Furniture Fixtures and Equipment properly valued and in good condition
• Positive appearance of facility, good reputation
• Favorable lease and lease options
• Training, transition period with the seller
• Covenant not to compete, non-solicitation agreement
• Solid Reason Why the owner wants to sell
• Experienced Employees who will stay on
• No last minute surprises