After years of work in a business, it can be quite profitable to sell it. Being acquired by a larger company is something that many hope for. The sale can be complicated, however. There are Federal and North Carolina laws concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges that must be followed.

How Do I Sell a Business?

The initial step in selling a Wake 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. The purchaser might want financial records to be updated in accordance with North Carolina 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 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. Since buyers in Wake County are typically concerned with acquiring control, they may be willing to allow other rights, such as the right to future earnings, to remain with the seller in exchange for the cheapest price on the right of control. 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?

The law in North Carolina places certain demands on parties who want to sell a business. Lawyers in Wake County are qualified to advise you in this process and ensure that the sale is in compliance with the law.