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 Stoughton 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 might want financial records to be updated in accordance with Massachusetts and Federal law. This might 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, typically 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?

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. The right of control can be separated easily from the business, and this often leads the buyers in Stoughton to be less interested in other rights within the company. In fact, buyers frequently leave other rights, such as the right to future earnings, with the sellers so that they can acquire control more cheaply. 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 Stoughton are qualified to advise you in this process and ensure that the sale is in compliance with the law.