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 Shiawassee 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. Preparing financial records to comply with Michigan and Federal law is crucial and will help determine the proper value for the rights you are selling. As an agreement for the purchase is reached, normally a formal contract will be written. It is important to review such documents before they are signed so that all aspects of the agreement are presented properly.

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. A party seeking to purchase a Shiawassee County business may not be concerned with all aspects of the company. In fact, purchasers are normally interested in acquiring control as cheaply as possible, and this may allow other rights, including the right to future earnings, to be apportioned or even retained by the seller. The wide variety of concerns that buyers may have make the negotiations process particularly vital. It's important at the start for each party to make plain their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Michigan law places certain requirements on parties selling a business. Making the sale run properly and smoothly is much easier with the advice of a local Lawyer practicing in Shiawassee County.