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 Illinois 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?

Of course, there must be an interested buyer with an offer in order to sell a business. The job of purchase agents in Clinton is not only to secure an offer, but they also lend advice about which offers should be considered. Determining the correct value for the rights you are selling is critical in this process. To do this, financial statements must be updated and prepared to comply with Illinois and Federal law. 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. Since buyers in Clinton 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. 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 Illinois law. A local Attorney practicing in Clinton will be able to advise you about your particular sale.