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. The process of selling a business is rarely a simple one, however. Federal and Michigan laws govern the areas of mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges, and they must be followed for the transaction to have legal effect.

How Do I Sell a Business?

The initial step in selling a Jackson 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 decide the proper value for the rights you are selling, financial records must be updated and prepared to comply with Michigan 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. The buyer of a business in Jackson County may be interested only in control of the business, and other rights within the company may not be as important. Buyers are usually looking for the cheapest route to control, and this may allow the seller to retain other rights such as the right to future earnings. Negotiations during the sales process are essential, and they should be used as an opportunity to voice fully each party's intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Parties who want to sell businesses must meet the requirements of Michigan law. Ensuring that the sale is proper is much simpler with the advice of a local Lawyer practicing in Jackson County.