How to prepare a business for sale
Practical questions to organise the conversation before a transaction.
Describe the offer precisely
State the activity, location and what is included in the price. Explain whether you are selling a company, assets or an online project. A clear title such as a business type and location is more useful than a promise of guaranteed earnings.
Prepare figures you can explain
Choose a consistent reporting period and identify the source of each figure. Separate revenue, operating costs and profit; explain owner involvement and exceptional items. If a number is not available, say so. Do not replace missing evidence with an estimate presented as a fact.
List the assets and dependencies
Prepare an inventory of equipment, stock, intellectual property, domains, software and documentation. Identify leases, licences, supplier agreements and third-party accounts that may need separate approval for transfer. Note what remains outside the sale.
Publish useful details without exposing sensitive data
Use your own images and an accurate description. Avoid posting personal data, customer lists, passwords or commercially sensitive documents publicly. Explain which details can be shared later under agreed confidentiality conditions.
Organise enquiries and the transition
Ask buyers about their needs and schedule a structured conversation. Keep the listing's price and status current. Before the handover, agree responsibilities, the information to be delivered and any transition support. Seek independent professional advice for the agreement and transaction structure.