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?

Obviously, the initial step in selling a business is to either receive an offer or solicit one. In West Haverstraw, purchase agents do more than simply find buyers. They also lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. Deciding 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. Finally, an agreement will be reached in the form of a written contract. All parties should review the contract to ensure that it reflects a complete understanding of what the parties have agreed.

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. Because the right of control is separable, the buyer of a business in West Haverstraw may not be interested in other rights within the company. Actually, control is typically cheaper to purchase without other rights such as the right to future earnings. Sometimes buyers negotiate to allow those right to remain with the seller. The wide variety of concerns that buyers may have make the negotiations process particularly vital. It's important at the beginning for each party to make plain their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

In selling a business, the seller must meet the requirements of New York law. A local Lawyer practicing in West Haverstraw will be able to advise you about your particular sale.