How to Sell a Business Quickly: 7-Step Guide to Get a Fair Price

Do you want to sell your business quickly and effectively? As business owners, understanding the sales process, preparing your financial and legal documents, as well as attracting qualified buyers is essential for a successful sale.

Accomplishing a sale faster depends on a variety of factors, including the type of business you own, the market demand for a specific industry, or the current economic conditions, to name a few.

This guide outlines the steps to sell your business fast, from preparing your financial statements to finding the right buyer and finalizing the sale.

Related: Should I Sell Or Keep My Business? 6 Key Signs To Consider

1. Organize essential documents and get your books in order

Bookkeeping can be a pain, but keeping your finances in order is key for a smooth sale. Get your financial paperwork together, including tax documents, sales records, and inventory reports. This will help you present a holistic view of your business’s financial health to potential buyers, while also preparing you for the toughest questions.

Having your financial documents at hand can also help you decide if now is the best time to sell your business. It’s best to sell when your sales are up to maximize your profits.

2. Get a business valuation

Determining the value of your company will help inform the selling price. A third-party business valuation service will provide you with an objective estimate based on revenue, profits or active monthly users, depending on your industry.

Get a free valuation of your business with our Business Valuation Calculator.

3. Market your business strategically

Develop a marketing strategy to attract qualified buyers. Utilize online platforms, social media, and industry-specific channels to reach prospective buyers. Highlight the unique selling points of your business to generate interest and inquiries.

4. Contact a business advisor or a business broker

You know your business inside and out, but you may not be an expert on the business market. To get some guidance throughout the process of selling and get connected to serious buyers, you have two options: business brokers or business advisors.

A business broker is a specialist who helps owners sell their companies. Boopos provides support through business advisors, but our platform operates independently of brokers.

5. Plan out your exit strategy

Many business owners don't plan their exit strategy. Health complications, an unwilling business partner, or uninterested successors are all problems that can be avoided. Before it's time to sell your business, think about your options in the event you'd like to move on from your current business venture. Once your plans are finalized, be sure to put them in writing so that you can access this information when it's time to sell.

6. Look for a pre-qualified buyer

One of the fastest ways to sell your business is through a pre-qualified buyer. 

Getting a deal prequalified for a business loan can significantly increase your ability to sell. This is because it gives potential buyers confidence that the business meets their requirements and that due diligence will not uncover any major issues.

Prequalifying a deal allows for more efficient management of the sale process, streamlining negotiations and timelines. The information required to pre-qualify can also be used to send the buyers. Most business buyers are savvy and want to maximize their financial gains , which is why they often seek out the highest possible seller note when making a purchase. Having financing in place helps reduce the amount of seller note required, allowing buyers to reduce their total financial commitment and increase their liquidity.

Worrying about capital for the buyer positions you as a more serious and reliable seller since it shows that you are taking all the necessary steps to ensure their financial security. This can go beyond just offering competitive terms and prices; it also demonstrates that you have done your due diligence in researching their creditworthiness and ability to pay.

7. Negotiate and finalize the sale

Once you have identified a potential buyer, negotiate the terms of the sale. Consider factors such as the sale price, payment terms, and any seller financing options. Work closely with your business and legal advisors to ensure a smooth and successful transaction.

Selling a business involves various crucial steps and considerations, from preparing financial records to negotiating terms with prospective buyers. Utilizing the expertise of business advisors can streamline the process and ensure a quick sale.

Throughout the diligence process, it's essential to maintain confidentiality by signing a non-disclosure agreement and providing access to necessary financial records. By effectively marketing your business for sale and engaging in thorough negotiations, you can maximize the value of your business while ensuring a smooth transition of business operations to the new owner.

Improve your selling strategy

Boopos can guide you through the business selling-process, with expertise and personalized support. As a business marketplace, we connect you with the perfect buyers for a seamless business acquisition process. Our tailored approach ensures that you get the best possible deal from a serious buyer.

Whether you're ready to make a move or simply exploring your options, learn what are the benefits of joining our platform and list your business today!