If your company is successful, you have most likely invested the majority of your time, energy, and money into it for what may feel like an eternity. You may see your business as an extension of yourself, and it may be difficult to envision life without it. In other circumstances, your whole family may have relied on the company, continuously discussed it at the dinner table, and essentially turned it into another family member.
Your company, on the other hand, may have just been slightly successful. You can’t wait to sell it and get rid of it. Or maybe you went into the company thinking it would be a short-term venture that you’d sell as soon as you received a good offer.
Whatever your circumstances, selling your company will be one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make as a business owner. Unlike almost every other business choice you’ve made in the past, you’ll only make this one. You only have one opportunity to put a price tag on what may be years and years of work. It’s all over once you sign the company selling forms.
So, the issue is, is this the time to sell your firm for the most possible profit?
Three Timing Factors That Will Influence How Much You Make When Selling Your Business
1. The Economy – What is the state of the economy?
Is the economy expanding? Is it still hanging in there? Are we in a slump? If the economy is improving, you will be able to sell your firm for the highest possible price. If there is a recession, I highly advise you to wait if possible. I’m not saying you can’t sell your company for top dollar during a slump, but it’s far more difficult. As a result, you must be informed of what is going on in the macro, or the larger world.
2. Your Industry — What is happening in your industry sector?
If your industry’s outlook, like the economy’s, is improving, now is the greatest moment to sell your firm for the highest price. The longer you wait to sell your firm once your industry develops, the less money you will get from the sale.
When keeping a watch on the industry, check for warning indicators, alarm bells, and potential difficulties. This includes discussions concerning the introduction of new laws, either now or later, that may have an impact on your firm and your exit plan.
3. Your Company – What is going on with your company?
Before you decide to sell your firm, you should consider the following: Is the company expanding year after year? Are your sales increasing? Are your profits increasing? Will this trend continue? If your company has had record growth and that growth is continuing, you have a fantastic business selling opportunity.
If your firm is stagnant or worse, moving backward and trying to break even, you should be aware of these realities. It doesn’t mean you can’t sell, but preparation is arguably much more important since you need to sell and tell a solid narrative about why you’re selling. A good online presence can often help increase the value when marketing the company.
When is the Best Time to Sell Your Business?
Obviously, the best moment to sell your company for the most possible profit is when the economy, your industry, and your firm are all expanding at the same time. When you’re ready to sell, you may manage the process and wait for all three to come together. When you are unprepared and have a victim attitude, you sell because you have no choice. Unless you get really fortunate, all three timing considerations will not be in place, and you will not be able to sell for the maximum price.