08: Getting professional advice

If you are considering buying or selling a business, you should consult a combination of accountants and professional advisers. There are even specialist acquisition brokers who can help you find a buyer and realise the best possible price. It is important to ensure that advisers have the appropriate experience and that fee structures are agreed upfront.

When selling, advisers can help determine a realistic valuation, prepare detailed financial information, approach potential buyers without revealing your corporate identity, help prepare the sales memorandum, draft a confidentiality agreement for interested buyers and negotiate the sales agreement.

When buying, advisers can help with accounting, tax, due diligence, financing the purchase and negotiating a deal.