Selling a business after years of work can be extremely profitable. Many businesses are created with the hopes that they will one day be acquired by a larger firm. The process of selling your business can be complex, however. Federal and California laws over mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges may be important in the transaction.

How Do I Sell a Business?

Obviously, the first step in selling a business is to either receive an offer or solicit one. In Lodi, purchase agents do more than simply find buyers. They also lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. The purchaser may want financial records to be updated in accordance with California and Federal law. This may be required by law in some cases, and besides, it always helps in determining the correct value for the rights you are selling. Typically a formal contract will be written as the agreement nears its conclusion. The provisions contained in the contract should present all matters discussed in a fair light, and this requires careful review by both parties.

What Will I Give Up in the Business?

The sale of a business is simply the transfer of a right known as "control". The party with control of a business directs its operations and can use the business property as it sees fit. A party seeking to purchase a Lodi business may not be concerned with all aspects of the company. In fact, purchasers are typically interested in acquiring control as cheaply as possible, and this may allow other rights, including the right to future earnings, to be apportioned or even retained by the seller. Because of the wide variety of different concerns buyers may have, negotiations are vital. Each party should voice their intents and concerns during this process.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Parties who want to sell businesses must meet the requirements of California law. Ensuring that the sale is proper is much simpler with the advice of a local Attorney practicing in Lodi.