Seller Services

Seller Benefits

Commonwealth Business Advisors is a boutique style firm that provides hands on customized service to each of our clients.  Our clients can draw upon our more than 30 years of experience and feel confident that we have a finger on the pulse of the local market along with a network of contacts that gives us insight unmatched by other brokers. 

We have developed a 10 step process that allows us to guide you every step of the way; “We Leave Nothing to Chance”:

1. Initial Meeting – We want to hear about your situation and need to gain information and have a complete understanding of; the reasons why you want to sell, market conditions, history of your business and your goals regarding an exit strategy as well as your perception as to the value of your business.  We will review your financial statements and tax returns to ensure that your goals are within reach.

2. Preparation for the Sale -  We will review your financial statements and tax returns and then create a recast P&L Statement allowing us to make adjustments so as to determine Seller’s Discretionary Income (the true net profit for the owner of the business).  This information will then allow us to present to you a “Fair Market” opinion of value for your business.  This document becomes our sounding board in determining the price and terms to list the business for sale. 

3. Listing Your Business for Sale – We’ll then develop a “blind” ad to promote your business without giving your location or identity away.  We understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality so require a prospect to sign a Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreement before we share confidential information with them.  Once we have a signed agreement and have qualified the prospect; they are provided with a Confidential Business Profile. 

4. Marketing Your Business for Sale – We aggressively market you business using a multi-pronged approach.  This includes reaching out to our database of prospect leads as well as internet marketing with ads on multiple websites.  We’ll also do a direct mailing to a targeted list of prospects.  In addition we will tap into our resources of our broker contacts in search of the best suited buyer for your business.

5. Qualifying Buyer – Once a prospect has expressed an interest, we will qualify them based upon; financial capability, experience, time frame, level of motivation and most importantly their commitment to the process.  We are experienced at matching buyers and sellers and in determining businesses that are best matched to a buyer’s profile.  We’ll provide you with continuous updates and feedback on the impact of the marketing program.

6. Meeting: Qualified Buyer & Seller – After we have qualified a buyer and feel they are a good serious candidate we’ll arrange for a meeting with the buyer and the seller.    The buyer will present their interest in the business, financial capabilities and experience.  The seller will have the opportunity to answer questions about the business.

7. The Offer – We assist the buyer in preparing a written Offer to the seller.  Offers normally contain contingencies such as the buyer’s satisfactory review of up to date financial statements and tax returns, financing, transfer of the lease and supporting documentation for information provided.  We facilitate a counter offer if necessary. 

8. Due Diligence, Financing & Contingencies – We assist the buyer with their due diligence and if necessary help them to find sources for financing through our contacts with banks and other lending institutions.  We’ll also work with the landlord (if applicable) to ensure a smooth transition of the lease. 

9. P&S Agreement – Our goal is to remove as many contingencies as possible before drafting the P&S.  We are unique in that not only do we go the extra mile in removing contingencies but we will also draft a P&S for both parties to present to their legal counsel; saving you time and money. 

10. Closing – We review closing documents with the seller, buyer and the closing attorney to be sure that every detail is covered.  We attend the Closing to ensure a smooth transaction takes place between the parties.