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 sale can be complicated, however. There are Federal and Alaska laws concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges that must be followed.

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 Unalaska can lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. Preparing financial records to comply with Alaska and Federal law is essential and will help determine the proper value for the rights you are selling. Lastly, 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?

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. Because the right of control is separable, the buyer of a business in Unalaska may not be interested in other rights within the company. Actually, control is usually cheaper to purchase without other rights such as the right to future earnings. Sometimes buyers negotiate to allow those right to remain with the seller. Negotiations during the sales process are essential, and they should be used as an opportunity to voice fully each party's intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

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