Selling a business after years of work can be very 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?

Of course, there must be an interested buyer with an offer in order to sell a business. The job of purchase agents in Petaluma is not only to acquire an offer, but they also lend advice about which offers should be considered. In order to decide the proper value for the rights you are selling, financial records must be updated and prepared to comply with California and Federal law. Finally, an agreement will be reached in the form of a written contract. All parties should review the contract to ensure that it reflects a complete understanding of what the parties have agreed.

What Will I Give Up in the Business?

In selling a business, the buyer gains a right known as "control". Control of a business entitles a party to direct its operations and it may also controls what is done with business property. Since buyers in Petaluma are generally concerned with acquiring control, they may be willing to allow other rights, such as the right to future earnings, to remain with the seller in exchange for the cheapest price on the right of control. The wide variety of concerns that buyers may have make the negotiations process particularly vital. It's important at the outset for each party to make plain their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

In selling a business, the seller must meet the requirements of California law. A local Lawyer practicing in Petaluma will be able to advise you about your particular sale.