Selling your business

M&A Advisory Firm and Business Brokerage
Serving the greater chicagoland area

Selling a business is complicated. It requires extensive research and planning to identify the best potential buyers for your business. Our methodical, process-driven approach helps our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Selling Your Business

The Grasemann Group, LTD. our Chicago business brokers spend significant time prior to going to market with the business owner, to develop a tailored process that meets the individual objectives and goals of each client.

Every business owner and every potential buyer is unique. Whether your eventual buyer is a family member, a business competitor, someone buying a business for the first time, there are unique factors that must be taken into consideration.

Successfully selling a business requires information, planning, and expertise. Successfully selling your business is not a sprint but a marathon. You will need to prepare far in advance for selling your business, and we can help. There is no replacement for experience, and The Grasemann Group, LTD. has the proven experience to help you sell your business.

The Grasemann Group, LTD. will:

Professionally prepare your business for sale
Professionally and confidentially market your business
Assist in all aspects of the transaction through the closing process

We primarily represent sellers with revenues between $1,000,000 and $50,000,000 in such industries as:

Distribution
Information Technologies
Consumer Products
Manufacturing
Other B2B and B2C Service Companies
Navigating Your Business Sale with Expertise and Insight

Embarking on the process of selling your business can be both exhilarating and daunting. At The Grasemann Group, LTD., we specialize in guiding business owners through this intricate process with our expert sell-side advisory services. Our approach is designed for businesses with transaction ranges from $1,000,000 to $50,000,000, across various industries, including Distribution, Manufacturing, Transportation, IT, Healthcare, B2B & B2C Services, and more. Let’s explore the initial steps and key considerations to prepare for a successful sale.

Understanding the Sell-Side Advisory Process

The Grasemann Group stands apart in the realm of M&A services. As part of the largest business brokerage network globally, we have access to thousands of qualified buyers, including strategic and corporate buyers, private equity groups, and individual investors. Our process is not just about finding a buyer; it's about finding the right buyer who recognizes the true value of your business.

Ready to Sell Your Business? Take These First Steps

The journey of selling your business begins with clarity and preparation. Understanding your reasons for selling and having clear goals for the post-sale period are crucial. This clarity helps in shaping the strategy for the sale.

One of the most important steps business owners can take is compiling their financial documents. Ensuring that your financial statements and records are accurate, up-to-date, and professionally prepared is essential. This step not only builds trust with potential buyers but also aids in the valuation process.

When considering valuation, determining the worth of your business is a critical step. At The Grasemann Group, we employ comprehensive valuation methods, considering various factors beyond just the financials, to ascertain the true market value of your business.

How Long Does It Take to Sell a Business?

The time it takes to sell a business can vary significantly. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years, influenced by factors such as the nature of the business, market conditions, and the readiness of the business for sale. Our team at The Grasemann Group is dedicated to making this process as efficient as possible, leveraging our extensive network and expertise to expedite the sale.

What Can You Do to Help Sell Your Business?

As a business owner, your involvement is crucial in selling your business. Here are some steps you can take:

Prepare Your Business: Make sure your business is attractive to buyers. This could mean streamlining operations, addressing any legal issues, securing additional growth, paying down debt.
Gather a Strong Team: Surround yourself with experts, including accountants, lawyers, and our experienced advisors at The Grasemann Group. Their expertise will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of the sale.
Maintain Business Performance: Even during the sale process, it's important to keep your business running efficiently. A thriving business is always more appealing to buyers. Avoid penny wise-dollar foolish tax strategies.
Be Flexible and Realistic: Understand that selling a business involves negotiations and compromises. Being flexible and realistic about the terms and conditions of the sale can lead to a more successful outcome.
Testimonials

Karl was persistent in his marketing efforts and stayed optimistic through the entire process, which gave me the confidence to push on. At the end of the day, Karl got the sale done and I am very appreciative. I would recommend Karl to any business owner looking to move on to the next chapter of their lives.

jeff ottens
Testimonials

Karl worked with us extensively in the sale of our IT consulting business and was diligent, patient, and preserving through what was a lengthy and complex process. His knowledge of the M&A process, his extensive network of resources, and, above all, his absolute integrity are stellar and beyond reproach.

Stephen A. kuck
Testimonials

Thanks for you work on selling my business. Your banking connections really helped, allowing the buyer to find proper financing and seal the deal. We were able to sell for my asking price, and at a great multiple.

Owner | Healthcare Software Corp.
Testimonials

The sincerity, understanding and professionalism that you showed us were significant factors that I know eventually led to the sale of our business. Your compassion, sense of humor, and ability to transcend the obvious assisted us when were down, tempered us when perhaps we were a bit too excited, and capably always steering us in the right direction.

andy keller