Category: Selling a Business

Are you looking to sell your business quickly in the UK? Selling a business is no easy task, and it can be difficult to know how to go about it. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make sure that your sale goes as smoothly and quickly as possible. At Chelsea Corporate, our experienced team offer a full range of brokerage services to help you sell or buy a business in the UK.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best strategies for selling a business quickly in the United Kingdom.

By following these tips, you should be able to get maximum value from your sale while making sure that everything proceeds with minimal delays or complications.

Understand Your Options When It Comes to Selling A Business In The UK

The first step to selling a business quickly in the UK is to understand your options. There are several different methods for selling a business, and it’s important that you find the one which best meets your needs.

One of the most popular options is to list your business on an online broker platform. This can be a great way to get maximum exposure for your business, allowing potential buyers to easily discover and contact you. However, it can also lead to a much longer, and more difficult, selling process. If you take care of the process yourself, you’ll need to handle your own due diligence, prepare your business for sale and negotiate the deal yourself.

Another option is to use a traditional broker service. Here at Chelsea Corporate, we’re mainly known in the UK for our business brokerage services, which are designed to help business owners get the best value from their sale. We work as both buy and sell-side brokers, so we understand both sides of the deal and can help you, and your potential buyer, come to a satisfactory agreement for both parties.

How To Prepare Your Business For A Quick Sale

The next step is to prepare your business for sale. This means thoroughly assessing the current state of your business and making any necessary adjustments.

Start by reviewing the financial statements and tax records of your business over the last few years. This will give potential buyers an insight into your company’s past performance, and will likely have a significant effect on the final sale price.

You should also look to increase the value of the business in any way you can prior to listing it for sale. This could involve carrying out some form of restructuring or making improvements to attract new customers.

How To Market Your Business For Sale

If you choose to sell your business yourself, rather than relying on professional business brokers, then you’ll need to take care of the marketing on your own.

One of the best ways to do this is to create an online presence specifically designed for your business sale. This should contain all relevant details about the business, such as financial statements and customer reviews, as well as contact information for potential buyers. There are plenty of listing services where you can register your business for sale.

You should also look to reach out to buyers directly. If you know of any potential investors who may be interested in your business, contact them and find out if they’re interested in making an offer.

How To Sell Your Business Off-Market In the UK

If you’re able to find a potential buyer without carrying out the above marketing work, you may be able to sell your business off-market.

This involves offering the business to a single buyer, bypassing the listing process and negotiation stages altogether. This can be done by either contacting someone directly or through a broker who already has an interested buyer on their books.

Off-market sales may be quicker than regular sales, but they don’t always get the best price for your business, particularly if you aren’t an experienced negotiator, or you aren’t teamed up with an experienced team of business brokers.

Negotiate with Prospective Buyers and Close the Deal

Once you have an interested buyer, it’s time to negotiate. This involves agreeing on a price for your business, as well as any other elements of the deal such as transfer of ownership or payment terms.

It’s important to remember that negotiation is a two-way process, and a good result comes from finding common ground between both parties. A good broker will be able to assist you in this process, helping both sides find a deal that works for everyone.

Finalising The Sale and Transferring Ownership

Once the negotiations are complete and all parties have agreed to the terms of the sale, it’s time to close the deal! Depending on your agreement with the buyer, this could involve exchanging financial documents, transferring ownership of the business and other paperwork.

Once all of these steps are completed, you can finally say goodbye to your business and move on to new opportunities.

Selling a business quickly is possible if you’re prepared for it. By taking the time to properly prepare, market and negotiate with buyers, you can find success in selling your business.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, off-market sale, you’re likely to have more success, and get a much better deal, if you leave it up to the experts.

Sell Your Business Quickly With Chelsea Corporate’s Experienced Team Today

At Chelsea Corporate, we have an experienced team of business brokers who are well-versed in selling businesses quickly and getting the best possible price. We’ll work with you to create a comprehensive marketing strategy and negotiate with buyers on your behalf, helping you to find success in selling your business faster than ever before!

For more information on the services that our experienced team can provide, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced team today.

Selling a business is a complex process that can take months or even years to complete. There are many factors to consider before making a decision, such as how much money you could make, how long it would take to sell, and how much control you would have over the sale process. If you decide to close your business instead, you should think about how you will go about doing this and what kind of support you will need from family or friends.

If you’re looking to sell a business, or even buy a business that might be closing down, our experienced team are here to help. Here at Chelsea Corporate, our experienced team can provide a complete range of business brokerage services to suit your needs.

What Factors Should You Consider Before Deciding To Close Or Sell Your Business?

Before deciding to close or sell a business, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the amount of money that can be made from a sale should be evaluated. Depending on the industry, size and profitability of the business, it can often be sold for more than its liquidation value. Additionally, the amount of time it will take to close a business or to find an appropriate buyer should also be taken into consideration.

Secondly, the amount of control you will have over the sale process should be evaluated. If you decide to close the business yourself, you will have complete control over when and how the business is closed. However, if you are looking for a buyer for your business, the amount of control you have over the sale process will depend on your chosen business broker.

Finally, if you decide to close a business, you should consider whether or not you will need help from family or friends during the closing process. This could be in the form of financial assistance, emotional support or advice.

Essentially, the decision to close or sell a business should be made carefully, taking into account all the factors involved. Our experienced team at Chelsea Corporate can provide invaluable advice and support throughout this process. Contact us today to find out how we can help you make the right decision for your business.

How Much Money Can You Make By Selling Your Business?

The amount of money that can be made by selling a business is dependent on several factors, such as the size and profitability of the business, as well as the industry in which it operates. Generally speaking, businesses with higher profits are more attractive to buyers and will usually fetch higher prices.

Additionally, the expertise of your chosen business broker may also have an impact on the amount of money you can make. Experienced business brokers have access to a large network of buyers, so they can negotiate better prices and terms for you.

Ultimately, the sale price of any business will be determined by market conditions and the skills of your chosen broker.

Selling a business is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. It’s essential to weigh up all the pros and cons before deciding whether selling or closing your business is the right choice.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Closing A Business?

The decision to close a business is not one that should be taken lightly, as this can have far-reaching consequences. While there are many advantages to closing a business, such as avoiding ongoing costs and liabilities, there are also some disadvantages that should be considered.

One of the biggest pros of closing a business is that it eliminates all ongoing costs and liabilities associated with the business. This can help to save money in the short-term, as creditors will no longer be able to claim payment from the company.

Additionally, if you decide to close your business yourself, there is no need for a third-party buyer or broker to facilitate the sale process.

However, there are also some drawbacks to closing a business.

Firstly, it may take a considerable amount of time and effort to liquidate the assets of the business, such as paying off creditors and resolving outstanding disputes. A

dditionally, you won’t be able to recoup any profits from the sale of your business – unless you had set up an exit strategy before closing.

Finally, it should be noted that closing a business can have an impact on your personal and professional reputation. Clients may no longer trust you to deliver services or products, and potential employers may view your decision to close the business as a sign of instability.

In conclusion, whether you decide to sell or close your business is a personal decision that should be made carefully after considering all the pros and cons.

If you are still unsure, it may be wise to seek advice from an experienced business broker such as Chelsea Corporate. Our experienced team will be able to provide invaluable guidance throughout the sale process.

How Long Will It Take To Sell Your Business?

The length of time it takes to sell a business depends on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the business, how attractive it is to potential buyers and the expertise of your chosen broker.

Generally speaking, smaller businesses with simpler operations can be sold faster than larger companies. Additionally, businesses in more competitive or sought-after industries may take longer to sell, as buyers will have more options available to them.

Lastly, the experience of your chosen broker will be a major factor in determining the amount of time it takes to complete a sale. A knowledgeable broker can ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently, thus reducing the length of time it takes to find a buyer and close the deal.

In conclusion, the length of time it takes to sell a business varies significantly and is dependant on several factors. By choosing an experienced broker such as Chelsea Corporate, you can rest assured that your sale will be handled efficiently and effectively.

How Much Control Will You Have Over The Sale Process?

When deciding to sell a business, one of the biggest concerns is how much control you will have over the sale process. Fortunately, this is entirely up to you. You can choose to be involved in every step or simply allow your chosen broker to handle all aspects of the sale.

If you decide to be more involved in the sale process, you will be able to negotiate the terms of the deal and keep a close eye on progress. However, you should bear in mind that this could take up a lot of your time and energy.

Alternatively, if you decide to allow your chosen broker to handle all aspects of the sale, they will be able to work on your behalf and provide valuable advice throughout the process.

In conclusion, how much control you have over the sale of your business is entirely up to you. If you choose to work with a knowledgeable broker such as Chelsea Corporate, we can ensure that all aspects of the sale are handled in a professional and efficient manner.

Overall, selling your business to a business buyer has both pros and cons. It can potentially result in a larger financial return, but it also puts your future plans in the hands of someone else. Before you make a decision, it is important to consider all the factors involved and seek advice from an experienced broker such as Chelsea Corporate. This will help ensure that the sale process runs smoothly and that you get the best possible outcome.

How Do You Go About Closing A Business?

If you decide that selling your business is not the right option for you, then closing it down may be the best way forward. Closing a business can be a difficult and emotional process, but with the right support it can also provide relief and closure.

When closing a business, one of the first steps is to inform any customers or clients that you will no longer be offering services. Additionally, it is important to inform any suppliers or partners that you have been working with so they can make alternative arrangements.

You will also need to inform HMRC and other relevant businesses that the company is closing down, as well as cancelling any associated subscriptions or contracts.

It may also be beneficial to seek advice from family, friends and advisors who may be able to provide invaluable support during this time.

In conclusion, closing a business can be a difficult and emotional process, but with the right support it is possible to make the best of a difficult situation.

What Kind Of Support Do You Need From Family Or Friends?

When closing a business, it is important to seek emotional support from family and friends. Having someone to talk to during this difficult time can help to provide comfort and perspective when making decisions related to the closure of a business.

It may also be beneficial to receive financial advice from family or friends who have experience in the industry or know someone who does. Having access to this kind of knowledge can be invaluable during the closure process, as it ensures that all aspects are considered and dealt with appropriately.

Finally, seeking emotional support from family and friends is always important. This could include discussing how you feel about closing down your business or simply providing a listening ear when needed.

Whether You’re Looking To Sell Your Business, Or Buy A Closing Down Business, Call Chelsea Corporate Today

At Chelsea Corporate, we understand that selling your business or closing it down can be a difficult decision to make. That’s why we provide comprehensive support and advice throughout the entire process, helping you make the best decision for your future.

If you are looking to sell your business, our experienced team of brokers will work with you every step of the way, and can even help to connect you with someone looking to buy a business in the UK.

For more information, or to take advantage of our professional services, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

There are many good reasons to consider selling your business. But before you jump in, it’s vital to get an idea of the potential costs involved. This will help you to negotiate a fair deal.

Some of the most significant fees when selling a business are those charged by business brokers, accountants and solicitors. The cost of selling a business may vary depending on the sale price, size of the company and complexity of the deal.

In this article, we’ll discuss how much it costs to sell a business (UK). We’ll also explain how you can save money by using a buy-side business broker such as Chelsea Corporate.

What Are the Costs Involved in Selling a Business (UK)?

Whatever your motivations, you’ve decided that now is the right time to sell your business. To negotiate the sale, you will need help from various professionals that specialise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

This may include business brokers, solicitors and accountants, among others – all of whom will charge a fee for their services. You may also need to cover certain additional costs, such as Capital Gains Tax.

Business Broker Fees

Many sellers hire a sell-side business broker to help them find a buyer, negotiate a price and close the deal. While this can save time and stress, it does come at a cost. The fees charged by business brokers vary greatly, and may include:

• A retainer: a flat fee for securing their services, charged up front or on a monthly basis. This may range from hundreds to thousands of pounds, and is payable whether or not your business sells
• A business valuation fee
• Marketing fees, usually charged per listing or advertisement placed
• A success fee, or commission, payable upon completion and calculated as a percentage of the sale price

The average broker fee for selling a business is 1-10%. This is inversely proportional to the sale price – the higher the price, the lower the fee. For example, if the broker charges 5% on a final value of £1m, you’ll pay £50,000.

While business brokers provide valuable expertise, their fees can eat into your profits. Fortunately, you can avoid costly commissions by selling off-market through a buy-side M&A expert, such as Chelsea Corporate. Buy-side business broker fees are paid by the buyer, not the seller – so you won’t have to pay a penny.

Legal Fees

If you’re wondering who pays legal fees when selling a business, both the buyer and seller are responsible for hiring their own commercial solicitors. The solicitor’s job is to handle the legal aspects of the deal, such as:

• Preparing your company for sale (e.g. ensuring you are up-to-date with licenses and permits)
• Liaising with the buyer’s solicitor to help them conduct legal due diligence
• Drafting and/or reviewing the business sale agreement, raising any concerns and negotiating terms with the buyer
• Transferring leases and intellectual property rights
• Managing any changes to employment contracts in accordance with labour laws

Solicitors may charge a fixed fee or an hourly rate. The average solicitor fees for selling a business are around 1% of the sale price. However, more complicated sales (such as those with earn-out clauses or ongoing litigation issues) may incur a higher cost.

Accountancy Fees

Your accountant will be intimately involved in the sale of your business. Among other things, it is their job to:

• Draw up historical and projected financial statements for valuation purposes
• Collate data on the business’s profits, trading and tax history as part of the financial due diligence process
• Produce the final accounts before ownership is transferred
• Deal with the tax aspects of the sale, ensuring you pay the correct amount to HMRC

If you have an in-house accountant, they may be able to handle this for you. However, if they do not have much experience in the M&A process, you may wish to have an external accountancy firm oversee the sale. They may charge up to £5,000 for this, depending on the size of the business and the amount of work required.

Additional Costs

Finally, there are a number of additional costs that you may have to pay when selling your business. These will vary depending on the nature of the sale and any demands made by the buyer. For example:

• Conveyancing fees (if you are selling commercial property)
• The cost of renewing or obtaining relevant licenses, permits and certificates prior to selling (e.g. an Energy Performance Certificate)
• HR fees, if you need advice regarding your responsibilities to your employees
• Hire of an escrow agent to hold the funds securely until the transaction is completed

You will also have to pay Capital Gains Tax on any profit made above your tax-free allowance. The rate differs according to your income tax band. If you are eligible for Business Asset Disposal Relief, this may help to reduce the cost.

Can You Sell a Business Online for Free?

Theoretically, it’s possible to sell a business without paying any professionals for their services. However, we would not recommend it – selling a business is a time-consuming, complex process that requires extensive knowledge and experience. Without the help of M&A experts, you could end up undervaluing your business or making costly legal mistakes.

The good news is, while legal and accountancy fees may be a necessary expense, there is a way to avoid broker fees. If you’re wondering where to sell a business online free, without paying broker fees and commissions, contact buy-side M&A experts Chelsea Corporate.

Sell Your Business with Chelsea Corporate and Pay No Fees

If you’re looking to save on fees when selling a business, Chelsea Corporate can help. As buy-side M&A specialists, we are paid by the buyer – so it’s completely free to sell your business through us. We can handle everything fully remotely, so you don’t even have to leave home.

Simply provide your details and we’ll add you to our exclusive off-market database of businesses for sale. When we’ve found the perfect buyer, we’ll be in touch to negotiate a fair, market-rate deal.

To find out more, fill in our enquiry form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can call us on +44 (0) 20 3011 1373 or email info@oldchelsea.fusionanalyticsworld.com.

Whether you want to explore a new venture or fund your retirement, there are many reasons to consider selling your business. Whatever your motivation, you’ll want to make sure you sell at a fair market rate.

Some sellers choose to hire a business broker to facilitate the deal. However, sell-side brokers usually charge hefty commissions. A more economical alternative is to sell through a buy-side acquisitions specialist like Chelsea Corporate.

If you’re wondering “will I get a good deal when selling my business through Chelsea Corporate?” the answer is yes! Read on to discover exactly how Chelsea Corporate can help you get the best price possible.

Why Choose a Buy-Side Broker to Sell My Business (UK)?

Most business owners, when they decide to sell, will use a broker to simplify and speed up the process. There are two main types, and they each work in different ways:

• Sell-side business brokers work for the seller. Their job is to advertise your company for sale, find you a buyer and close the deal.
• Buy-side business brokers work for the buyer. Their job is to find and negotiate lucrative acquisition opportunities for their clients.

Sell-side brokers charge sellers a commission, which is usually 8 – 10% of the final sale price. They may also ask a retainer fee to secure their services, which is payable up front. Many brokers also charge extra for valuation.

In comparison, a buy-side business broker (such as Chelsea Corporate) is paid by the buyer to find profitable businesses for sale. So, as the seller, you won’t have to pay a penny.

And because serious buyers are keen to seal the deal as soon as possible, you’ll also benefit from a quicker sale. If you’re wondering “how do I sell my business fast, free?” Chelsea Corporate could be the answer.

Specialists in Off-Market Acquisitions

Another great benefit of working with Chelsea Corporate is that we specialise in off-market acquisitions – so your business will not be publicly advertised for sale. Instead, we’ll list it in our private database, visible only to paying clients.

This is ideal for business owners who want to keep the sale of their company confidential. It also helps to avoid a drop in morale among employees, as they won’t be aware that a sale is imminent.

Not to mention, if you sell a business off-market, you’ll also avoid time-wasters. We’ll match you directly with a serious buyer who has a vested interest in closing the deal.

Will I Get a Good Deal with Chelsea Corporate?

At Chelsea Corporate, we work for the buyer – however, we are 100% committed to negotiating great deals for our sellers, too.

The reason is simple: we know that, unless we can settle on a reasonable price for both parties, you won’t sell your business – and our clients will lose out.

With that in mind, we’ll work hard to ensure you sell at a fair market rate. We encourage our sellers to seek professional advice elsewhere, so that you know exactly what your business is worth.

And of course, selling a business through Chelsea Corporate is absolutely free. Most sell-side brokers charge thousands of pounds in fees and commissions, leaving less cash in your pocket when the deal is done.

How Do I Sell My Business Through Chelsea Corporate?

If you’re wondering how to sell a business with Chelsea Corporate, the answer is simple. Just get in touch with us and we’ll take it from there. Here’s how it works:

• First, we’ll arrange a no-obligation consultation to discuss your business and what you hope to achieve from the sale.
• If we’re happy to go ahead, we’ll list your business in our confidential, off-market database and begin the process of finding a match.
• When a buyer is interested, we’ll contact you to let you know. We’ll then liaise between you and our client to negotiate a fair deal for both parties.
• After the initial agreement, we’ll work with legal and financial experts to conduct due diligence before closing the deal. We’ll be your point of contact throughout, from initial discussions to completion.

If you have any questions about the process, or your responsibilities as a seller, our team will be more than happy to help. And if the sale falls through for any reason, we’ll start work straight away on finding you another match.

Contact Chelsea Corporate Today

If you’re interested in selling a business (UK), Chelsea Corporate can help. As specialists in off-market mergers and acquisitions, we have years of experience in finding serious buyers for businesses just like yours.

We have a long list of clients waiting for lucrative acquisition opportunities in every industry imaginable, from aviation to pharmaceuticals. Whether your company is large or small, we’ll work hard to find you a great deal.

To find out more about selling your business with Chelsea Corporate, contact us today. Fill in our enquiry form, call us on +44 (0) 20 3011 1373 or email info@chelseacorporate.com.

The first step to selling your business is setting a fair asking price. So, one of the first questions on your mind will be: “how do I know what my business is worth?” This is something you’ll need to establish early, before you begin negotiations.

A business valuation is a calculation of the worth of a company. This may be based on several factors including annual profits, assets and growth potential. Intangible factors, such as your company’s reputation, can also play a part.

In this guide, we’ll explain how business valuations work and the various methods that can be used. We’ll also discuss how you can get your business valued professionally.

How Do You Value a Business?

Eventually, almost every business owner will find themselves wondering “how much is my business worth?” There could be many reasons for this – for example, to secure an investment or buy out a business partner. The most common motivation for getting a business valued is because you’re planning to sell.

To set a fair asking price, you’ll need an accurate idea of how much your business is worth. This will ensure you’re not selling for too little (leaving money on the table) or too much (deterring potential buyers).

So: how is a business valued? Here are some of the most commonly used methods of valuing a business.

Price to Earnings Ratio

The price to earnings (P/E) ratio, or ‘multiples of profit’, is a common business valuation formula. If you’re wondering how to value a business quickly, this is one of the simplest methods. It’s most suitable for established companies with a history of consistent earnings.

For example, a business with a P/E ratio of four would be worth £4 for every £1 of annual net profit. So, if the company made £200,000 after tax, it would be valued at £800,000.

Most businesses have a P/E ratio of between 4 and 10. P/E ratios for large companies, and those in fast-growing industries (such as IT), tend to be highest. A business acquisitions expert can help determine an appropriate P/E ratio for your company.

Asset Valuation

One of the most popular business valuation methods involves valuing the company’s assets. This is usually used for businesses whose underlying value lies in physical assets (e.g. manufacturing).

Calculating an asset valuation starts with determining the company’s ‘book value’. This is based on the total worth of its tangible assets, minus any liabilities (e.g. debts). Examples of tangible assets include:

• Cash
• Property and land
• Equipment and machinery
• Inventory or stock

Next, you’ll need to determine the worth of any intangible assets (e.g. intellectual property). Combine this with the book value for a complete asset valuation.

Entry Cost

Another way to value a business is to calculate the ‘entry cost’. This represents the amount of money it would take to replace the business – i.e. to build it up from scratch. It is calculated by determining the value of:

• All tangible and intangible assets
• Start-up expenses
• Product research and development
• Recruiting and training employees
• Deals with other businesses e.g. suppliers

This method of valuation may suit businesses with high start-up costs or those whose value is based on things like long-term contracts.

Discounted Cashflow

This approach to business valuation is based on the principle that a business is worth the sum of all its future cashflows – i.e. the money it’s expected to generate over time.

These are then ‘discounted’ at an appropriate rate (usually the weighted average cost of capital) to account for the time value of money, as well as potential risk. This results in a present-day value for the business. The rate typically falls anywhere between 15 and 25 percent.

Because it relies on predicting the future, this method is most suitable for long-established businesses with stable cashflows, such as insurance companies.

What Else Can Impact the Value of a Business?

Most business valuations are based largely around assets, cash flow and revenue. However, there are many other important factors that can also have an impact. For example:

• The size, age and location of the business
• The industry it operates in
• Competitive landscape
• Brand equity and reputation
• Goodwill (relationships with customers and suppliers)
• Employee morale and retention rate

It’s also worth noting that the value of a business is not always perfectly reflected in its sale price. Why and when you sell (e.g. the economic climate) can affect how much buyers are willing to pay.

Who Is Qualified to Value a Business?

Anyone can estimate the value of a business. However, if you’re planning to sell, it’s important to seek a valuation from a qualified professional. Not only will this give you a more accurate figure, but it will also help to speed up negotiations with buyers.

Your two main options are to speak to a chartered accountant or a business broker. Business brokers are experts in buying and selling businesses, and will often work with a team of financial and legal professionals to come up with an accurate valuation.

If you’re wondering “what is my business worth?” Chelsea Corporate can help. With years of experience in off-market sales and acquisitions, we know exactly how to value a business, UK-wide.

Selling Your Business? Contact Chelsea Corporate Today

Thinking of selling your business? If so, get in touch with off-market M&A experts Chelsea Corporate. We have a long list of clients looking to acquire successful, UK-based businesses like yours. Simply provide your details and we’ll let you know when we’ve matched you with an interested buyer.

Whatever industry you belong to, we guarantee a smooth, stress-free sales process from negotiations to closing. And as buy-side business brokers, we work for (and get paid by) the buyer – so you won’t have to pay any fees or commissions if you sell through us.

To get started, contact Chelsea Corporate today. Fill in our enquiry form, call us on +44 (0) 20 3011 1373 or email info@chelseacorporate.com.

When you’re ready to sell your business, it’s important to have an accurate idea of how long it will take. There are a lot of factors that go into the sale of a company, and each one will have an impact on your timeline. Finding an interested buyer is just the first step in the process.

At Chelsea Corporate, we have years of experience in mergers and acquisitions. In this guide, we will explain the stages of selling a business and how long it might take to finalise a deal. We’ll also share our top five tips on how to sell a business as quickly as possible.

How Quickly Can a Business Sell?

The first thing to understand about selling a business is that there is no universal rule for how long it takes. The speed of the process can vary depending on factors such as the size of the business and which industry it belongs to.

There are many steps to selling a business. First, you’ll need to have your business valued, find an interested buyer and negotiate a purchase price. Once the initial deal is approved, there are many due diligence and legal steps that must be completed.

On average, the whole process takes six to twelve months. However, many sales are finalised sooner than this (and some take longer). A good business acquisitions specialist can help you establish a realistic timeline.

How to Sell Your Business Fast

Though it can take time, there are several things you can do to speed up the selling process. If you’re wondering how to sell a business quickly, whether it’s a small business or a larger organisation, here are our top five tips.

1.     Prepare Your Business

To ensure a smooth transition, make sure your business is sale-ready before you start finding a buyer. You should be ready to provide interested parties with any information they might want to know about your company. For example:

• Up-to-date accounts, tax returns, profit trends and sales history
• Current contracts with suppliers and customers, property leases, title deeds, licenses, loan agreements and so on
• Any existing or anticipated risks, past and ongoing litigation issues

You should also ensure that the day-to-day operations of your business can run smoothly in your absence, and that all employees have had sufficient training.

2.     Choose the Best Time to Sell

Choosing the right time to sell your business can have an impact on how quickly you find a buyer. You may want to consider the following factors:

• The state of the economy: it can be more difficult to sell during a downturn, for example
• Your business’s growth trajectory: you’ll have better luck if you sell at a time when your company is enjoying high profits and minimal debts
• The time of year: investors are often looking for new opportunities during the first quarter, whereas it can be harder to sell around the summer and winter holidays

You can learn more about when to sell a business on our blog.

3.     Find a Good Business Broker

Selling your business through a broker means that you’ll have someone working on your behalf to find a buyer, which can speed up the process.

As well as saving time, you can leave the ins and outs of the sale – such as negotiations and due diligence – to your broker, leaving you free to ready your company for the transition. Choosing a buy-side business broker will mean you won’t have to pay a fee, as they work for the buyer.

To sell your business quickly, choose an established, reputable acquisition specialist with a proven track record. Reading testimonials from past clients is a good place to start.

4.     Sell Off-Market

The best way to sell a business fast is to go off-market. This means selling your business confidentially to an interested party, rather than advertising it on the public market.

Selling privately in this way is often quicker than a public sale. You’ll be advertising only to a select group of individuals who are experienced in your niche – meaning you won’t have to deal with time-wasters. Some business brokers, such as Chelsea Corporate, work exclusively off-market for this reason.

Selling your business off-market through Chelsea Corporate is guaranteed to speed up the process. We work with thousands of serious buyers looking for lucrative acquisition opportunities in various industries and locations throughout the UK. We’ll match your company with an interested buyer and work hard to negotiate a swift, fair deal that works for both parties.

5.     Set a Fair Sale Price

The key to selling a business quickly is to set a fair asking price. If the purchase price is too high, you risk putting off prospective buyers. This may mean it takes you longer to finalise a deal.

To do this, you’ll need a realistic idea of how much your business is worth. A business broker or a financial adviser will be able to value your business based on metrics such as your cash flow and earnings after tax. Be reasonable with your expectations and open to sensible negotiations.

Sell Your Business with Chelsea Corporate

If you’re looking to sell a business quickly, UK-based brokers Chelsea Corporate can help. We’re off-market acquisition experts that specialise in matching buyers with off-market businesses for sale. Whatever industry you’re in, we’ll help you sell your business without the hassle.

Because we work with serious buyers only, you won’t have to deal with timewasters or low-ballers. And as we’re a buy-side broker, you won’t have to pay any fees to sell through us. Simply provide your details and we’ll get in touch when we’ve found the perfect buyer.

To get started, contact Chelsea Corporate today. Fill in our online form or call us on +44 (0) 20 3011 1373. You can also email us at info@chelseacorporate.com.

If you’re selling a business (UK), you may not want the acquisition to become common knowledge. Every year, most businesses are sold off-market, meaning they’re never listed for sale publicly.

As well as keeping the sale private, selling a business off-market is usually cheaper and faster. You’ll also have better control over who buys your business, which could impact its future.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the benefits of off-market selling in more depth. We’ll also explain how to sell a business privately with the help of a buy-side broker.

What Does Off-Market Mean when Selling a Business?

You may have heard the term before – but what is “selling off-market” in business acquisitions? In essence, it means selling your business directly to an interested buyer, without advertising on the public market.

You can do this in one of two ways: buy finding a buyer yourself, or through a buy-side business broker that works off-market. Either way, most business owners prefer to take this approach. The majority of acquisitions in the UK occur off the market – meaning it’s widely regarded as the best way to sell a business.

What Are the Benefits of Selling Off Market?

So, why sell off-market? There are many good reasons. Let’s take a look at the top four.

Avoid Extortionate Selling Fees

The most common reason for business owners to sell off-market is to avoid paying fees and commissions. Sell-side business brokers typically charge a flat rate for their advertising services – which may be thousands of pounds – plus a commission of 1% – 10% of the final sale price. They may also charge cancellation fees if you decide not to complete the sale.

By selling a business off-market to a private buyer, you won’t have to pay any broker fees. This means you’ll make a better profit from the sale.

Sell Quickly

On the public market, you may need to advertise your business for months before you receive any interest. Even after negotiation talks, potential buyers could back out at any point – leaving you back at square one.

Going off-market often results in a quicker sale. You’ll be matched directly with a genuine, serious buyer who won’t waste your time. And in case the sale falls through, your off-market business broker will have other potential buyers ready and waiting.

Control Who Buys Your Business

Most business owners are picky about whom they sell to – especially if they started their company from scratch. You’ll want to know that your employees are looked after and that your venture will continue to thrive.

Selling your business privately gives you much more control over who buys it. Your off-market broker will work with you to find and vet the perfect buyer: one who is experienced in the industry and whom you can trust to maintain your business’s reputation.

Keep Your Plans Private

There are many downsides to publicly announcing that you’re selling your business. For instance, your customers may take their business elsewhere out of fear that your products or prices will change. It may also cause anxiety and unrest amongst your employees – after all, around 30% of employees are made redundant after a merger or acquisition in the same industry.

When selling off market, the entire acquisition process is kept private. The only people who will know about the sale are you, your buyer, and your business broker.

How to Sell a Business Privately

Selling a business off-market clearly has several advantages. But how do you find a buyer when your business isn’t publicly advertised?

The answer is to find a professional business broker that specialises in off-market sales. This kind of broker acts as an intermediary between private sellers and those looking to acquire a business. They will:

• Match your company with a potential buyer
• Assist with due diligence
• Help negotiate the terms of sale
• Act as liaison between you and the buyer
• Offer expert advice throughout every stage of the acquisition

Always choose a buy-side business broker such as Chelsea Corporate. This means they get paid by the buyer, not the seller – so you won’t be charged selling fees.

Sell Your Business Off-Market with Chelsea Corporate

If you’re looking to sell a business, UK-based business brokers Chelsea Corporate can help. We are specialist merger and acquisition experts with a focus on off-market sales. Leave your details with us and we’ll get in touch when we’ve found you the perfect buyer.

Because we work for the buyer, you won’t have to pay fees or commissions if you sell through us. We guarantee a smooth, stress-free sales process, from initial negotiations to the post-sale transition period.

To learn more about how to sell off-market, contact Chelsea Corporate today. Fill in our enquiry form or call +44 (0) 20 3011 1373. You can also email info@oldchelsea.fusionanalyticsworld.com.

When should you sell a business? This is a question that many business owners ask themselves at some point. If you’re considering it, you probably have a good reason.

You may have lost your passion, or feel that you’ve taken your company as far as you can. Perhaps you’re struggling to keep up with competition in a fast-paced industry. Maybe you’re in need of a windfall to fund an exciting new venture.

In this guide, we’ll share some of the key signs it’s time to sell your business. We’ll also discuss the best and worst times of year to start looking for a buyer.

When Should I Sell My Business?

Selling a business requires a lot of thought and planning, and isn’t something anyone should rush into. It’s a huge step that will change the course of your future. However, if running your company is no longer right for you, it’s the only logical thing to do.

Never let fear of stress or hassle stop you from making the decision to sell. A good broker will handle everything for you and ensure a smooth transition period afterwards. Before starting the process, though, you should be certain that it’s the right time.

There are many signs that suggest you’re ready to sell your business. Here are some of the most common.

You’ve Lost Your Passion

There’s little point in continuing to run a business when you no longer feel passion for it. Perhaps you’ve reached your goals and you need a new challenge. Maybe you’ve lost interest in the industry, or you’re keen to explore a different niche.

Of course, it’s normal for any business owner to experience ups and downs over the years. However, if you’ve been feeling unenthusiastic and bored for some time, selling up could be a wise move.

You’ve Reached a Plateau

Another sign that you should sell your business is if you’ve reached a plateau. In other words, your company has stagnated: it’s not failing, but it’s no longer growing or making progress.

There could be many reasons for this. Companies sometimes evolve into something that surpass the owner’s skillset. You may lack the means, time or motivation to take it to new heights. If so, it could be a good idea to sell up and buy a business that’s a better fit for you.

You Can’t Keep Up with Competition

It can be difficult to keep up with competition as your business grows. You originally cornered an untapped niche, but now competitors are popping up left, right and centre. It may not be feasible to continue fighting for market share.

In this case, selling your business to a larger company in the same industry could be sensible. They’ll have the resources needed to stay ahead of the competition and maintain a dominant position in the market.

You’re Uncertain About the Future

If you’re not sure where your business is heading, it might be time to move on. There’s no doubt that technology and consumer demand evolve rapidly, and once-popular industries can start to decline. Perhaps your business requires major modernisation which you lack the funds or expertise to take on.

Alternatively, you may be unwilling or unable to navigate the shifting post-pandemic economic climate. In any case, it’s important to find a buyer before profits start to slow down.

You’re Ready for a Windfall

There may come a time when you’re ready to cash in on your efforts. For example, you’re approaching a major life change such as parenthood or retirement. Selling your business could provide a much-needed windfall.

A business broker can help value your business and match you with an interested buyer. To avoid extortionate selling fees, choose a buy-side acquisitions specialist that works off-market (such as Chelsea Corporate).

When Is the Best Time of Year to Sell a Business?

The question of when is the best time to sell a business has no one-size-fits-all answer. However, a good time of year to begin the process is during the first quarter (January to March). This is when investors are focused on the year ahead and ready to take on a new challenge.

There’s not really a bad time of year to sell, provided you’re sufficiently prepared. However, you may find it harder to find a buyer during the summer holidays from June to August. The same goes for the festive period in December.

Selling a business (UK or otherwise) can be a lengthy process. On average, most sales take 6 to 12 months to complete. Bear this in mind when deciding when to sell, and contact a broker in plenty of time.

Thinking of Selling Your Business? Choose Chelsea Corporate

If you’re looking to sell a business, UK-based business brokers Chelsea Corporate can help. As experts in off-market mergers and acquisitions, we work with investors worldwide. Our aim is to make buying and selling business smooth, swift and stress-free.

At Chelsea Corporate, we work for (and get paid by) the buyer. This means that you won’t have to pay hefty up-front fees and commissions when you sell through us. You’ll also avoid the hassle and frustration of selling your business on the public market.

To get started, contact us today: fill in our form or call +44 (0) 20 3011 1373. You can also email info@oldchelsea.fusionanalyticsworld.com.