Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Have you ever considered selling your business?

BIR is a company that has specialized in selling businesses throughout Southern California for over seventeen years. If you are thinking about selling your business there are some answers you may be seeking. The following are some of the most common questions we are asked.

Q. Why does someone decide to sell a business?

There are many reasons for selling. Retirement, illness, or the desire to relocate are often given. Occasionally a dispute between partners, or with a landlord or a marital settlement may prompt the desire to sell. An owner may want to move upward to a higher level or he may want just the opposite - to get out from under. Sometimes an owner is just tired of the business.

Q. When is the best time to sell a business?

There is really no absolute time to sell. Of course, selling a business that is doing well is preferable, but each case is different. Almost any business can be sold - even when it is not doing too well - if it is handled correctly.

Q. I've thought about selling but I didn't want to use a broker. Why couldn't I do it myself?

Many sellers feel this way at first. However, we at BIR have found most sellers can't provide the time and marketing expertise to effectively sell their business for it's maximum value. A successful sale is the result of a complete marketing plan. The marketing plan must determine proper market value, established fair prices, create acceptable terms and provide maximum exposure. We maximize your business exposure by attracting interest from a wide range of potential buyers who may not have otherwise considered your type of business.

Q. Just what does a business broker do for clients?

At BIR we develop the marketing plan incorporating all the elements needed to complete a successful sale of your business. We save time and allow you to concentrate on the running of your business without interruptions. An BIR broker screens potential buyers in order to qualify them as ready, willing and able purchasers. We maintain confidentiality regarding the proposed sale in order to protect your employees, your business, and your customers. We maximize the opportunity for a successful sale through creative structuring techniques gained from years of experience in business sales.

Q. Does using a business broker cost a lot of money?

You pay our marketing fee only if and when we bring you a ready, willing, and able buyer who meets the terms of your offer to sell. Advertising and all other marketing costs are paid for by the broker. Use of a broker to negotiate the sale of your business is often critical to making the deal and usually results in a better price for the seller. The broker can professionally negotiate between both parties. The use of a broker and the resulting successful sale of your business is usually of greater value than the cost of their services.

Q. How do I know what my business is worth?

BIR professionals are trained to evaluate businesses using a variety of techniques. He or she can meet with you to review the facts that will help you determine a price that is fair to you while being attractive to a potential buyer. A determination of market value by an BIR professional gives assurance that the offering price is based on knowledge of the current marketplace.

Q. How can I learn more about selling my business?

An BIR professional can call on you at your convenience. They will be able to answer any additional questions you may have and begin the process of a successful sale. Please call or Email us Today to schedule a confidential consultation.