Question 1

How long does it take to sell a small business?

Accepted Answer

Most small businesses sell within 6–12 months depending on financial readiness, price, and buyer demand.

Question 2

What documents do buyers usually request?

Accepted Answer

Buyers typically request tax returns, profit and loss statements, balance sheets, payroll reports, contracts, leases, and SOPs.

Question 3

How much is my business worth?

Accepted Answer

Small businesses often sell for 2–3× SDE, while larger businesses sell for 3–6× EBITDA.

Question 4

Should I tell my employees I'm selling?

Accepted Answer

Most experts recommend waiting until the deal is secured before informing employees to avoid unnecessary disruption.

Question 5

Do I need a business broker?

Accepted Answer

A broker isn't required, but they can increase the likelihood of closing and help secure better deal terms.

Question 6

What is seller financing?

Accepted Answer

Seller financing allows the buyer to pay a portion of the business purchase price over time, typically with interest.

Question 7

Can I sell a business that depends heavily on me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you may need a transition period or structured earn-out to ensure continuity for the buyer.

Question 8

How can I prepare financially for a sale?

Accepted Answer

Prepare by organizing clean financials, removing personal expenses, and creating strong add-back documentation.

Month: January 2025