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 Maine laws that govern mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges.

How Do I Sell a Business?

An offer is the initial step in selling a business, whether you solicit one or simply receive one spontaneously. In addition to securing a prospective buyer, purchase agents in Biddeford can lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. The purchaser might want financial records to be updated in accordance with Maine 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. Finally, 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 may use the business property as it sees fit. Because the right of control is separable, the buyer of a business in Biddeford 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 Maine places certain demands on parties who want to sell a business. Lawyers in Biddeford are qualified to advise you in this process and ensure that the sale is in compliance with the law.