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 Georgia 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?

Obviously, the first step in selling a business is to either receive an offer or solicit one. In Washington, purchase agents do more than simply find buyers. They also lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. During this process, the financial records must be updated and prepared in strict accordance with Georgia and Federal law. The reliability of these methods is necessary in determining the proper value for the rights you are selling. As an agreement for the purchase is reached, typically 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 can use the business property as it sees fit. A party seeking to purchase a Washington 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. The wide variety of concerns that buyers may have make the negotiations process particularly vital. It's important at the beginning 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 Georgia law. A local Attorney practicing in Washington will be able to advise you about your particular sale.