Selling a Business

Expert Advice

Selling a business to the right buyer at the best price is hard work. We know there are no shortcuts to success. Our basic steps to selling a business include the following:

• Sterner Consulting will enter into a Non-Disclosure Agreement with the business owner to assure the owner that their sensitive operational and financial data will remain secure and confidential,

• Sterner Consulting will gather and examine the business historical and financial data,

• Sterner Consulting will work with the owner to determine a fair market value and identify the most suitable deal terms,

• Sterner Consulting will enter into an engagement agreement with the owner so we can formally present the opportunity to buyers who meet the necessary requirements,

• Sterner Consulting will execute marketing plan to locate as many qualified and interested buyers as possible,

• Sterner Consulting will qualify buyers who meet the necessary requirements,

• Sterner Consulting will negotiate offers on the owner’s behalf to qualified and motivated buyers,

• Sterner Consulting will work with the appropriate legal and accounting professionals to close the transaction,

Need Immediate Help?

If you need immediate information from one of our brokers, please call or email Sterner Consulting now: (412) 562-0891, or mailto:Rachel@sternerconsulting.com

Business Valuation

Whether you need an informal estimate to satisfy your curiosity or a rigorous appraisal for accounting/listing purposes Sterner Consulting will help you gather the information needed for a complete and accurate business valuation. We know what key metrics influence valuations most and what businesses like yours are worth on the market in the Tri-State area. (See more on Valuations Here)

Deal Structuring

When selling your business deciding on the right asking price is paramount. Also as important are other deal terms that can influence your “Net Proceeds” from the transaction, such as down payments, financing alternatives, non-compete agreements, and post-sale “buyer training” to help ensure the ongoing success of the enterprise. Sterner’s experience in deal structure can make the difference in a negotiating a successful transaction.

Finding Buyers – Advertising & Networking

To find the right buyer for your business, we will promote the opportunity locally as well as through our national Mergers & Acquisitions / Business Brokers network(s). Plus we will promote the opportunity via press releases and/or advertisements in the leading Internet sites that showcase businesses for sale, in selected newspapers and trade publications, and in many business sale listing services.

Buyer Screening & Qualification

It is our experience that most inquiries are tire kickers, not serious buyers. We do not want to waste your time while you continue to manage your business, so we will filter through these leads on your behalf to find only the serious buyers. For serious buyers who want more information we require a signed non-disclosure agreement to protect the confidentiality of your business. In addition we obtain a net worth statement to qualify the buyer and make sure they have the ability to purchase.  Your confidentiality is our top priority.

Formal Introductions & Follow-up

After qualifying prospective buyers we will showcase your business in a professional manner and present the financial documents. We will work diligently to answer all questions and to obtain an offer. The decision to buy a business is an emotional and difficult one. We know how to assist buyers to help them overcome their concerns.

Deal Negotiations

As you know both you as the business seller as well as the potential buyer both foster strong emotions. Strong emotions can be deal killers. When you are emotionally involved in your business, it is very difficult to be an effective negotiator. As professional business brokers, we will represent your interests in a vigorous manner, to ensure you receive full market value, without you having to get emotionally involved in the matter

Deal Management Through the Closing

Our job is not complete until all papers are signed, the check is deposited and the keys to the business are handed over to the new owner! We work with you and your advisors (attorney, accountant, etc.) and/or other affected parties (even including the building landlord, if necessary) in order to fully and professionally represent you all the way through the closing.