Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago. — Warren Buffett

For most business owners, their company is a complex and illiquid investment that represents the lion’s share of their net worth. It also represents their life’s work, a legacy worth protecting. Getting an exit right takes planning.

However, coordinating all of the business, management, financial, legal, tax, estate, family, legacy, market and personal considerations is complicated and emotional for owners. Few have the time and training to tackle this on their own, while running their business. Therefore many owners procrastinate when it comes to exit planning.

Failing to prepare for an exit can result in a business owner …

1. being forced by unplanned circumstances to exit involuntarily in a bargain sale, sale to a competitor or liquidation
2. wasting time and money on one or more sale transactions that fail to close
3. undervaluing their business
4. giving up more of the proceeds in taxes than necessary
5. prolonging retirement and failing to achieve their retirement goals
6. failing to leave a lasting legacy
7. burdening their family with matters that they were unprepared for

Whether you intend to transfer your company to family, partners, managers, a third party, private equity or a strategic buyer, exit planning is well worth it.

Eight Exit Planning Benefits

1. Identifies value gaps and transferability obstacles – a key starting point
2. Establishes clear priorities, strategies and time frame
3. Makes the company more attractive to buyers
4. Increases value for all shareholders
5. Produces a smoother management transition
6. Minimizes risks
7. Minimizes taxes
8. Prevents costly mistakes

On a personal level, exit planning settles your mind, re-energizes you and gives your work greater purpose.

See Exit Planning Process

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend your time learning the ins and outs of exit planning. This is where Exit Strategies comes in. Contact Al Statz for an initial conversation. Everything we discuss will remain confidential.