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Building Equity Plans that Align with Business Growth Goals
Learn how equity compensation can potentially support business growth, retain talent, and prepare for transitions. Explore strategies for structuring...
Proper preparation can help position your business for a smooth acquisition when you are ready to sell. Check out these tips for acquisition planning from financial advisors at EP Wealth.
How To Prepare Your Business for Acquisition
Selling a business isn’t just a financial transaction—it’s the culmination of years of work, strategy, and leadership. Not only are buyers looking at revenue numbers, but they’re also evaluating stability, efficiency, and long-term potential. The more prepared your business is, the more likely the process will go smoothly, giving you greater leverage in negotiations.
A well-prepared business has clean financial records, efficient operations, and a capable management team that can sustain success beyond the current owner. Addressing these factors ahead of time not only makes your business more appealing to buyers but may also help prevent delays and last-minute deal adjustments.
Here’s what you need to focus on as you prepare for acquisition.
Financial Preparation
Start by organizing financial records to provide a clear, accurate picture of your company’s value. This includes:
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Cleaning up financial statements and confirming GAAP compliance
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Documenting all revenue streams and customer relationships
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Organizing tax returns and resolving outstanding tax issues
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Creating financial projections based on well-supported assumptions
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Tracking and improving key performance indicators (KPIs)
Buyers may hesitate if a business is too reliant on its current owner. A well-documented financial history reassures them that the company can run smoothly with someone new at the helm.
Operational Improvements
Refining daily operations can make your business more efficient and attractive to potential buyers. Begin by documenting all processes and systems, then focus on key areas for improvement, such as:
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Strengthening supply chain relationships
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Updating technology and software systems
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Confirming compliance with regulations
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Resolving any pending legal issues or disputes
Well-organized operations help facilitate a smooth transition, even if key employees leave during the acquisition.
Customer and Market Position
Buyers want confidence that your business holds a strong market value. Strengthen your position by:
- Protecting intellectual property with patents and trademarks
- Conducting market analysis to identify growth opportunities
- Developing new products or services to expand customer reach
- Investing in marketing campaigns to attract and retain customers
A well-positioned business with a loyal customer base and strong brand reputation is more attractive to buyers and may lead to better offers.
Human Capital
Your team plays a critical role in your company’s success—both before and after the acquisition. Steps to consider during the transition include:
- Documenting employee agreements and benefits (Benefits such as a retirement plan can make your company more attractive to both existing team members and prospective talent)
- Verifying proper classification of employees and contractors
- Offering retention bonuses or agreements for key personnel
Retaining essential employees can help maintain business continuity and reassure buyers of the company's long-term stability.
Legal and Administrative Readiness
Unresolved legal and administrative matters can create unexpected hurdles. Addressing these in advance can prevent last-minute complications. Focus on:
- Updating licenses and permits
- Organizing corporate records and contracts
- Reviewing and strengthening vendor agreements
- Cleaning up ownership structure and cap tables
- Confirming proper insurance coverage
- Resolving any outstanding litigation
Due Diligence Preparation
Buyers will conduct a thorough evaluation of your business before finalizing a purchase. Preparing in advance can streamline this process and possibly prevent unnecessary delays. Consider:
- Creating a due diligence folder with key financial, operational, and legal documents
- Anticipating buyer questions and gathering supporting information
- Having NDAs ready to protect sensitive business data
Valuation Enhancement
A business’s value isn’t just about its financials; it’s also about growth potential. Identifying ways to increase perceived value can lead to stronger offers. Strategies include:
- Improving profit margins
- Reducing working capital requirements
- Strengthening recurring revenue streams
- Diversifying customer base to reduce reliance on a few key clients
- Demonstrating scalability and future growth potential
Valuing your business early in the process allows you to make adjustments that may lead to better outcomes when negotiating with buyers.
Partner with EP Wealth for Business Planning Support
Acquisition planning involves many moving parts, but you don’t have to navigate this process alone. EP Wealth Advisors help business owners evaluate options, protect their interests, and plan for a smooth transition.
Take the next step toward a successful acquisition—connect with a business planning advisor near you. EP Wealth Advisors can help start the conversation by conducting an informal valuation for your business along with a comprehensive financial plan to align your business goals with your personal future.
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- Information presented is general in nature and should not be viewed as a comprehensive analysis of the topics discussed. It is intended to serve as a tool containing general information that should assist you in the development of subsequent discussions. Content does not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice nor is it intended to supplement professional individualized advice.
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