Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. How do I know how much my business is worth?

 A. There are a number of different methods or guidelines for valuing a small business for the purpose of sale. These methods are dependent upon a host of variables that are unique to each individual business. We generally use a combination of methods including a multiple of the seller's adjusted net profit, and an analysis of current market data and comparable's of similar businesses sold. Your best bet is to contact us to arrange a confidential consultation. After we have a thorough understanding of your business and its history and a chance to review current and at least 2 years previous financial statements, we can assist you in determining a supportable asking price which should result in a sale.  

Q. What type of information do you require for a listing?

A. For an initial confidential consultation to review your business and determine a supportable asking price, we would need to see a current and two years previous financial statements. If you decide to move forward and list the business with us, we would require all of the applicable information that is noted in the business sale preparation guide. . Please feel to call us directly at 02 9793 2345 if you like to move forward now in preparing your business for sale.

Q. How long is a typical business listing?

A. We ask all of our clients to give us a minimum 3 to 6 months exclusive listing. However, if at any time after 3 months from the original listing date, you are not satisfied with our service or the level of activity we have generated, you are welcome to cancel the listing contract through written notification.

Q. When is the right time to offer my business for sale?

A. If you want to maximize your return on your investment, the best time to offer your business for sale is when the business is growing and profitable. Buying a business is a major leap of faith for most buyers to begin with. Investing in a business that has declining sales or other mitigating factors such as new competition only makes it a bigger challenge to get a qualified buyer to move forward. It takes a tremendous amount of discipline and forethought to offer a business for sale when things are going well. But it is also unquestionably the best time to execute your exit strategy. Please contact us for more details on preparing your exit strategy now.

Q. How long will it take to sell my business?

A. This will depend on a wide variety of factors. On average, we advise our clients that it could take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for their business to sell. Obviously, there are exceptions. We have seen some businesses sell in a matter of weeks and some have taken more than a year. The bottom line is that good businesses that are properly marketed and prepared for sale will eventually sell. Please call us now at 02 9793 2345to arrange a confidential consultation if you would like to move forward and list your business.

Q. Why shouldn't I try to sell my business on my own?

A. We have talked to many business owners who have attempted to sell a business on their own. Even with the advantage of Internet marketing and 'for sale by owner' web sites, the vast majority of them advised us they would not attempt it again. It was just not worth the hassle or any perceived cost savings. Even the majority of the owners that were successful admitted that having a professional intermediary involved in the deal would have undoubtedly made the transaction smoother & less stressful.

Please contact us if you have any additional questions.