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 an Oregon 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. The purchaser may want financial records to be updated in accordance with Wisconsin and Federal law. This may be required by law in some cases, and besides, it always helps in determining the correct value for the rights you are selling. As a final step, an agreement for the purchase will be reached, typically 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?

In selling a business, the buyer gains a right known as "control". Control of a business entitles a party to direct its operations and it can also controls what is done with business property. Since buyers in Oregon are usually 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 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 Wisconsin law. A local Attorney practicing in Oregon will be able to advise you about your particular sale.