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

How Do I Sell a Business?

To sell a business there must be an offer, whether it is solicited or not. Purchase agents in Atherton not only help to acquire an offer, but also lends advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. Preparing financial records to comply with California and Federal law is imperative and will help determine the proper value for the rights you are selling. As an agreement for the purchase is reached, normally a formal contract will be written. It is important to review such documents before they are signed so that all aspects of the agreement are presented properly.

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 may use the business property as it sees fit. Since buyers in Atherton are typically 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 start for each party to make plain their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

The law in California places certain demands on parties who want to sell a business. Lawyers in Atherton are qualified to advise you in this process and ensure that the sale is in compliance with the law.