Sell-Side Advisory Services
Our sell-side process brings as many qualified buyers to the table as possible, enabling our clients to select the buyer not only offering the best price and structure but to select the buyer whose values align with their own.
At Decosimo, we believe maximizing value is more than maximizing price. Whether it’s securing the future of their employees or safeguarding their legacy in the community, business owners often have priorities beyond the monetary value of their company. Decosimo sell-side advisors understand these concerns are critical to finding the right buyer.
Selling My Business
When is the best time to sell?
Investors are often advised against trying to “time the market.”
When should I begin preparing to sell?
The best time to prepare for a sale is before you need to sell. Preparing early does not mean you are committing to a transaction. It means you are giving yourself more options.
Some companies are ready to go to market quickly, while others benefit from a year or more of preparation before beginning a formal process. Readiness often depends on the quality of your financial reporting, the depth of your management team, customer concentration, written contracts, and how dependent the business is on the owner.
Starting early allows us to identify issues that could affect value, address them before buyers raise concerns, and position the business for a smoother, more competitive process. At Decosimo, we help owners assess whether the business is truly ready and identify practical steps that may improve value before going to market.
How do I keep the sale confidential?
Confidentiality is maintained through non-disclosure agreements, controlled information sharing, and careful screening of potential buyers. Sensitive information is only released once a buyer has been properly vetted.
How long does the process take?
The typical time it takes to sell a business is nine months from preparation through closing. We have seen transactions close as quickly as three months and take as long as twelve months. Ultimately, timing can vary based on market conditions, deal complexity, and buyer financing.
How much will I pay in taxes?
Taxes depend on factors such as the transaction structure, asset allocation, and your overall financial situation. Understanding the tax implications of a sale is an early step in the sell-side process. Working with experienced advisors can help minimize tax exposure and optimize the outcome.
Will I have to stay on after the sale?
Many transactions include a transition period where the owner assists the new buyer. The length and responsibilities vary and are typically negotiated as part of the deal terms.
How do you find qualified buyers?
Qualified buyers are identified through established networks, industry relationships, and targeted outreach through private databases. Each prospect is screened to ensure they have both the financial capacity and strategic interest to complete the transaction.
What if the success of the business is too dependent on me?
If a business relies heavily on its owner, buyers will view that as a risk. Our advisors can help identify transition strategies, management structures, or documentation that reduce this dependency before a sell process begins.
Featured Transactions
Browse a sampling of transactions completed by Decosimo.
