![\"how](\"\/lafayette-la\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/68\/2022\/06\/how-long-to-sell-a-business.jpg\")
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If you\u2019re considering exiting your business, you may be wondering how long the process takes. While the process varies, most business owners can anticipate a six- to nine-month process from signing a listing agreement to close. However, some things impact the length of a business sale. In this article, we answer the question, \u201cHow long does it take to sell a business?\u201d and share tips for a streamlined and profitable sale.<\/p>\n
Four Things that Impact the Time it Takes to Sell a Business<\/strong> The State of the Market<\/strong> The specifics of your industry also come into play. If your business has already rebounded from the pandemic\u2019s effects, then you are likely in a better position to potential buyers. Ultimately, you need to decide if your business is healthy enough to pose for a sale. If it\u2019s not, you may be better off staying, modifying your business plan, and trying to grow it before your exit.<\/p>\n Preparedness of the Business for Market<\/strong> You\u2019ll also want to take a closer look at your exit strategy. Determine how you\u2019ll facilitate the business\u2019s handoff and set the new owner up for success. Expect a buyer to want to know your involvement in the company, and address any potential red flags.<\/p>\n Marketing<\/strong> Asking Price<\/strong> Despite the average time from listing to close, these factors make a significant difference in how long it takes to sell your business. The good news is, you don\u2019t have to go through the process alone. The professionals at Sunbelt Business Brokers have the expertise to help you every step of the way. Get in touch with a Sunbelt office near you to start on your path to a successful sale.<\/p>\n Brian Knoderer is the President of Sunbelt Business Brokers. He has over 20 years of experience as a business owner and managing business transactions. As a seasoned intermediary, Brian has successfully represented companies in a broad range of industries helping business owners achieve their desired exit strategy or growth initiative. Brian is also co-owner of Sunbelt Indiana and Managing Director of MMI Capital Partners, a franchisor focused investment banking firm.<\/p>\n Previously Brian was involved in several entrepreneurial ventures as well as having held corporate roles in Franchise Development for Prime Hospitality and Choice Hotels.<\/p>\n Brian is a graduate of Ball State University with a degree in Management Information Systems and earned his MBA from Butler University. He has received the Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor (CM&AA) designation, holds both the Series 7 \u2013 General Security License and the Series 63 \u2013 Uniform Securities Licenses, and is a licensed Real Estate Broker. He has been affiliated with several organizations including the Entrepreneur Organization, a Member of the International Business Brokers Association, Venture Club, and a Board Member of The Entrepreneur Institute.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" If you\u2019re considering exiting your business, you may be wondering how long the process takes. While the process varies, most business owners can anticipate a six- to nine-month process from signing a listing agreement to close. However, some things impact the length of a business sale. In this article, we answer the question, \u201cHow long […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":11672,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21,17],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2053","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","category-general"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
\nThe sales process can be tiring. The desirability of your small business depends on the current market and a variety of factors specific to your business. Prospective buyers will want to address any potential issues that could arise in their purchase. If you\u2019re ready to sell your business then, the good news is that there are ways to speed up the amount of time it takes to reach an agreement. Before you list your business for sale, take these factors into consideration.<\/p>\n
\nThe longtime seller\u2019s market has changed as a result of COVID-19. To stay competitive, you\u2019ll need to be realistic with your business valuation and continue operating and pivoting to remain profitable.<\/p>\n
\nThe time and effort you\u2019ve put into preparing your business for sale impact potential buyers\u2019 interests. Key documents, including clear records of cash flow and verifiable financials are a given, but little details also matter. Consider your curb appeal and how buyers will feel walking in to assess the business.<\/p>\n
\nProper promotion of your listing can be the difference in reaching a pool of qualified buyers or waiting for months. Online marketplaces are a great place to start, but to ensure that your confidentiality is maintained and that your business is shown to qualified buyers, it\u2019s often best to work with a professional.<\/p>\n
\nLast, but certainly not least, the asking price of your business can bring buyers in or push them away. Don\u2019t let your emotional attachment to what you\u2019ve built cloud your judgment. Working with a business broker in this process can ensure a fair sale price, which is likely to shorten negotiations and speed up the sale process.<\/p>\n![\"brian](\"\/lafayette-la\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/68\/2022\/02\/brian-knoderer-sunbelt-headshot.jpg\")
\nBrian Knoderer<\/p>\n