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 Missouri 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?

Of course, there must be an interested buyer with an offer in order to sell a business. The job of purchase agents in Columbia is not only to secure an offer, but they also lend advice about which offers should be considered. Determining the correct value for the rights you are selling is critical in this process. To do this, financial statements must be updated and prepared to comply with Missouri and Federal law. 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 can 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 Columbia 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. 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?

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