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. The sale can be complicated, however. There are Federal and Wisconsin laws concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchanges that must be followed.

How Do I Sell a Business?

The first step in selling a Germantown 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 Wisconsin and Federal law. A formal contracts will likely be written to solidify the sales agreement. Careful review of this agreement is essential so that all concerns voiced during negotiations are 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. Since buyers in Germantown are generally 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 outset for each party to make plain their intentions and concerns.

How Can an Attorney Help?

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