Checklist:10 Things You Should Have Ready Before Selling Your Business

Checklist 10 Things You Should Have Ready Before Selling Your Business

Selling a business is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. But before you put the “for sale” sign out, there are a few things you must have ready if you want to attract serious buyers—and maximize your selling price.

Here’s your 10-point checklist to get fully prepared.
And remember: you can list your business completely free on BizBrokerPlus.com to start getting exposure today.

1.  Clean Financial Statements (At Least 3 Years)

Buyers want to see organized, verifiable numbers. That means:

  • Profit & Loss statements

  • Balance sheets

  • Tax returns

If your books are messy or incomplete, work with an accountant to get them cleaned up.

2.  Know Your SDE or EBITDA

You’ll need to understand your Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE) or EBITDA to properly value your business.

Don’t worry—we can help you figure this out inside BizBroker+.

Get help valuing your business here

3.  Business Summary or “Info Packet”

This is your business’s “resume.” It should include:

  • What the business does

  • Key metrics (revenue, staff, customers)

  • Why you’re selling

  • Growth opportunities

We call this a Confidential Business Review (CBR)—and we can help you build one.

4.  List of Assets & Inventory

What comes with the business? Include:

  • Equipment and furniture (FF&E)

  • Inventory (valued properly)

  • Vehicles or tools

This helps buyers understand the real value of what they’re getting.

5.  Existing Contracts or Agreements

Buyers will ask about:

  • Leases

  • Vendor contracts

  • Client agreements

  • Employee terms

Make sure everything is documented and transferable.

6.  Licenses & Permits

Is your business operating under any licenses, health codes, or industry-specific permits?
These should all be valid, up to date, and transferable if possible.

7.  Staff Overview

Buyers want to know:

  • Who are the key team members?

  • Will they stay after the sale?

  • Are there any non-compete or employment agreements?

Having this prepared builds confidence in business continuity.

8.  Real Estate or Lease Details

Do you own or lease the space?
Have clear documentation on:

  • Lease terms and expiration

  • Whether the buyer can assume or renegotiate

  • Any rent increases

9.  Marketing & Sales Performance

Showcase how your business gets customers. Include:

  • Sales funnels

  • Ad spend and results

  • Website traffic

  • Customer retention metrics

This helps buyers see the potential for growth.

10.  Confidentiality Strategy

Don’t tell the world your business is for sale. You need:

  • A Confidential Listing (BizBroker+ offers this)

  • Signed NDAs before sharing sensitive info

  • A strategy to protect employees and reputation

List your business confidentially (and for free)

 BONUS: Get Support from BizBroker+

Selling your business doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
At BizBrokerPlus.com, you can:

List your business for free
✅ Get help preparing all your documents
✅ Connect with qualified buyers
✅ Work with a professional broker if needed

List now — no fees, no catch
Need help? Contact our team

 

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