Selling a business can be quite profitable after years of work invested. Many businesses look forward to one day being bought by larger firms. The process of selling your business can be complex, however. Federal and Tennessee laws over mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges may be important in the transaction.

How Do I Sell a Business?

Obviously, the first step in selling a business is to either receive an offer or solicit one. In Lakeland, purchase agents do more than simply find buyers. They also lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. Preparing financial records to comply with Tennessee and Federal law is necessary and will help determine the proper value for the rights you are selling. Lastly, 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 can use the business property as it sees fit. The buyer of a business in Lakeland may be interested only in control of the business, and other rights within the company may not be as important. Buyers are usually looking for the cheapest route to control, and this may allow the seller to retain other rights such as the right to future earnings. 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?

The advice of a local Attorney practicing in Lakeland will make it much easier to ensure the sale of your business is in compliance with Tennessee law.