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 a South Hadley 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. The purchaser may want financial records to be updated in accordance with Massachusetts and Federal law. This may be required by law in some cases, and besides, it always helps in determining the correct value for the rights you are selling. As a final step, an agreement for the purchase will be reached, usually in the form of a written contract. It should be reviewed by all parties to ensure that what was agreed upon is 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. The right of control can be separated easily from the business, and this often leads the buyers in South Hadley to be less interested in other rights within the company. In fact, buyers often leave other rights, such as the right to future earnings, with the sellers so that they can acquire control more cheaply. These particularities make negotiations vital, during which each party should use the opportunity to voice their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

In selling a business, the seller must meet the requirements of Massachusetts law. A local Attorney practicing in South Hadley will be able to advise you about your particular sale.