It can be quite profitable to sell a business after years of work. The hopes of one day being acquired by a larger firm are shared by many businesses. However, selling a business is rarely a simple affair. Parties to the purchase of a business must comply with Federal and Massachusetts laws that govern mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges.

How Do I Sell a Business?

The first step in selling an Essex County business is soliciting an offer. A purchase agent can help you find prospective buyers, as well as advise you concerning whether offers that you receive are worth consideration. In order to determine the proper value for the rights you are selling, financial records must be updated and prepared to comply with Massachusetts 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?

In selling a business, the buyer gains a right known as "control". Control of a business entitles a party to direct its operations and it can also controls what is done with business property. Because the right of control is separable, the buyer of a business in Essex County 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. The wide variety of concerns that buyers may have make the negotiations process particularly vital. It's important at the outset for each party to make plain their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

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