It can be profitable to sell a business, since years of work invested often make it an attractive buy. Being purchased by a competitor or a larger firm is something many businesses look forward to. Nevertheless, the transaction can be complicated. Certain Virginia and Federal laws governing mergers, acquisitions, negotiations or securities exchanges may come into play during the sale of a business.
How Do I Sell a Business?
An offer is the initial step in selling a business, whether you solicit one or simply receive one spontaneously. In addition to securing a prospective buyer, purchase agents in Winchester can lend advice about which offers are worthwhile to consider. Preparing financial records to comply with Virginia and Federal law is imperative and will help determine the proper value for the rights you are selling. 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 Winchester may not be interested in other rights within the company. Actually, control is usually 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. Negotiations become essential in light of these particularities, and each party should use negotiations as an opportunity to make plain their intentions and concerns.
How Can an Attorney Help?
In selling a business, the seller must meet the requirements of Virginia law. A local Lawyer practicing in Winchester will be able to advise you about your particular sale.