Selling a business, stop by stop

Decide

Take the time you need here. Once you go to market, most sales close within a year, and preparation makes it faster. (IBBA / M&A Source Market Pulse, Q2 2026.)

1. 1Build your teamThe people who help you do this well.+
2. 2Decide how to sellOn your own or with a broker, and what each one costs you.+
3. 3Learn what buyers would payWhere the number comes from, and what you'd actually keep.+
4. 4Know what buyers value mostWhat raises the price, and what quietly lowers it.+

Get ready

1. 5Get your business sale-readyBooks someone can read, and a business that runs without you.+
2. 6Share with buyers what you've builtTell the story of your business, the good and the hard parts.+

Find the right buyer

1. 7Meet the buyersYou choose who takes it over. Here's how to find the right one.+
2. 8Agree on the termsOffers, the letter of intent, and why price isn't everything.+

Close

1. 9Prepare to closeThe buyer's review, their bank, the final contract, and signing day.+
2. 10Hand it overTelling your team and customers, staying on, and what comes next.+