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 Rhinelander 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 an agreement for the purchase is reached, typically a formal contract will be written. It is important to review such documents before they are signed so that all aspects of the agreement are presented properly.

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. A party seeking to purchase a Rhinelander business may not be concerned with all aspects of the company. In fact, purchasers are typically interested in acquiring control as cheaply as possible, and this may allow other rights, including the right to future earnings, to be apportioned or even retained by 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?

Parties who want to sell businesses must meet the requirements of Wisconsin law. Ensuring that the sale is proper is much simpler with the advice of a local Attorney practicing in Rhinelander.