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 process of selling a business is rarely a simple one, however. Federal and New York 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 first step in selling a Niagara 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. 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 New York and Federal law. As a final step, an agreement for the purchase will be reached, usually 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 Niagara County to be less interested in other rights within the company. In fact, buyers generally leave other rights, such as the right to future earnings, with the sellers so that they can acquire control more cheaply. Because of the wide variety of different concerns buyers may have, negotiations are vital. Each party should voice their intents and concerns during this process.

How Can an Attorney Help?

The law in New York places certain demands on parties who want to sell a business. Attorneys in Niagara County are qualified to advise you in this process and ensure that the sale is in compliance with the law.