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 initial step in selling a Nantucket 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. Deciding 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 Massachusetts and Federal law. Usually a formal contract will be written as the agreement nears its conclusion. The provisions contained in the contract should present all matters discussed in a fair light, and this requires careful review by both parties.

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. Because the right of control is separable, the buyer of a business in Nantucket 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. Because of the wide variety of different concerns buyers may have, negotiations are essential. Each party should voice their intents and concerns during this process.

How Can an Attorney Help?

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