Preparing a business to sell
Michael Gerber says, “The purpose of creating a business is to sell it.” You may say, “This does not pertain to me.” However, similar to death and taxes, the eventual sale of your business is coming.

Whether it is due to retirement, health or happiness, it may come soon. The pity is when it comes sooner than anticipated and due to unpreparedness, you are not able to realize its greatest value. We talk to our clients about the need for planning. Developing a 5- or 10-year plan for retirement is not unreasonable. A business may be a significant contributor to an owner’s retirement. Maximizing it is important!

Taking the time to discuss likely scenarios can bring to light issues that will improve the value of the business. Lease, employee, and business agreements can also have a significant outcome on a potential sale. Evaluating the current industry situation can be very enlightening to business owners who need to know what should be done to fulfill his or her future goals. Sometimes we let tax situations dictate our current decisions to the detriment of our future.

Planning is the key! Sure, these decisions would be easier if we had a crystal ball. However, by focusing on the future rather than the past, you can be in control of your company’s future and your financial security. We want to put you in the driver’s seat!

Assisting in sales and acquisitions of a closely-held business
As a Firm specializing in business valuations, we have developed relationships with investment bankers and venture capitalists. We have helped clients raise capital through the use of Private Placement Equity Financing and with the assistance of investment banking companies.

At Fitchitt, Benedict + Clark we are able to assist in a sale or acquisition in multiple capacities:

> identify potential buyers to businesses interested in selling

> find suitable candidates for companies looking to acquire businesses

> work with both buyers and sellers to arrive at pricing and terms designed to assure the best chance of a successful deal

> act as an intermediary to negotiate price and terms between buyer and seller to assist in:

- sale of a private company to a public company

- sale of a private company to a private company

- buy-out among owners of a closely-held compan

We understand that the decision to buy or sell a Company can be an emotional one. The experience of Fitchitt, Benedict + Clark in negotiating sales to both public and private companies can be invaluable to our clients!