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 a business is rarely a simple one, however. Federal and Iowa laws govern the areas of mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges, and they must be followed for the transaction to have legal effect.

How Do I Sell a Business?

An offer is the first step in selling a business, whether you solicit one or simply receive one spontaneously. In addition to securing a prospective buyer, purchase agents in Storm Lake can lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. In order to determine the proper value for the rights you are selling, financial records must be updated and prepared to comply with Iowa and Federal law. A formal contracts will likely be written to solidify the sales agreement. Careful review of this agreement is essential so that all concerns voiced during negotiations are accurately presented.

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 Storm Lake 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. These particularities make negotiations vital, during which each party should use the opportunity to voice their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

In selling a business, the seller must meet the requirements of Iowa law. A local Attorney practicing in Storm Lake will be able to advise you about your particular sale.