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How do I prepare my business for sale?
Set Yourself Up for a Profitable, Smooth Exit
Preparing your business for sale is one of the most important steps in achieving a strong price and a successful handover. Buyers are drawn to businesses that are well-documented, financially healthy, and able to run smoothly without the owner.
The more prepared you are, the more confident and willing buyers will be.
Key Steps to Prepare Your Business for Sale
Buyers will expect:
Clear, accurate financial records for the last 2–5 years
Profit & Loss statements, balance sheets, and tax returns
Separation of personal and business expenses
💡 Tip: Consider having financials reviewed by an accountant to boost credibility.
Understand What Your Business is Worth
Work with an advisor to determine a fair market value. This includes:
Valuing assets, goodwill, and intellectual property
Analysing revenue, profit trends, and growth potential
Comparing to similar sales in your industry
Gaining a thorough understanding of the business environment
Having a complete knowledge of the business's operational capabilities
Streamline Operations
A business that can run without you is more attractive. You’ll want to:
Document systems, procedures, and workflows
Delegate key responsibilities to managers or staff
Ensure your team is capable and engaged
Reduce reliance on any one customer, supplier or key employee
Clean Up Legal & Compliance Matters
Make sure:
All business registrations and licences are current
Contracts (leases, suppliers, employees) are documented and transferable
Any legal or tax issues are resolved or disclosed
Check the PPSR register has no outstanding or completed claims
Review & Protect Your Assets
- Ensure intellectual property (e.g. trademarks, domain names) is secure
- Maintain your premises, equipment, and online presence
- Clarify what’s included in the sale (and what’s not)
Maximise Your Appeal
Small improvements can make a big difference:
Boost your online reputation (reviews, website, branding)
Highlight recurring revenue or customer contracts
Showcase any growth opportunities for the buyer
When Should You Start Preparing?
Ideally, 12–24 months before you plan to sell. This gives you time to improve financials, address weaknesses, and position the business for maximum value.
Even if you're not ready to sell now, preparing early puts you in control of your options.
Expert Guidance Makes a Difference
Selling a business is part financial, part emotional, and all about timing and strategy.
Working with an experienced advisor can help you:
Identify value drivers and risks
Create a professional business profile or info memorandum
Find qualified buyers and negotiate on your behalf
A quick conversation could lead to big results. Whether you're planning, growing, or looking to sell — we can help.
Here is a link to some additional information - More Information
You only sell your business once.
The outcome is shaped years before the transaction.
Whether you sell in 12 months or 3 years, the right first step is understanding where your business stands today — confidentially, and without pressure.
Get your confidential exit readiness review
No obligation • No listing pressure • Clear next steps