Assessing Your Business’s Sellability: Price Isn’t Everything

1. Assessing Your Business’s Sellability: Price Isn’t Everything Having worked with countless business owners and buyers, I’ve learnt that selling a business for sale in Alberta, Canada, isn’t just about setting the right price. While industry multiples and valuation models offer guidance, buyers evaluate much more than just numbers. So, what really catches a buyer’s eye when searching for their next investment? It boils down to three fundamental factors—regardless of price.

2. The Three Key Considerations for Buyers: 1. Is the business profitable? 2. Can it operate successfully without the current owner? 3. Are the financial records transparent and reliable? Financial Transparency Matters Many business owners feel uneasy about revealing their financial statements, but strong financial health is a key attraction. A well-managed business, paired with a skilled bookkeeper or tax accountant, often shows healthy cash flow and reasonable profit margins—a combination that buyers seek. Interestingly, a net operating loss isn’t always a red flag, as long as cash flow is strong. However, high debt combined with losses will deter potential buyers. The Business Must Thrive Beyond the Owner Buyers look for a business for sale in Edmonton, Alberta, with operations that are not solely dependent on the owner’s expertise. If an owner plays a critical role in a key process, it can make transitioning difficult, even for a buyer with the same skill set. Think of it like the difference between an artist and a painter. Painters rely on repeatable processes, making them easy to replace. Artists, on the other hand, embody the brand, making their departure riskier for the business. Exceptions exist, such as when private equity firms acquire a business and retain the “artist” owner. Solid Financial Records Simplify the Process Modern software makes record-keeping more efficient, so financial transparency is rarely an issue. Buyers typically need a profit and loss statement and tax returns to gauge financial health. Additionally, if the business offers employee benefits, review contract terms for any "change of control" clauses that trigger lump-sum payouts—such payouts can significantly impact cash flow and disrupt the sale. There are 3 more factors that should be evaluated for businesses before buying them. Preparation Is Key Before determining the value of a business for sale in Alberta, Canada, ensure that these three essential factors are solidly in place. Selling a business3 more factors that

3. should be evaluated takes time and strategy, often requiring 1–2 years of preparation before bringing it to market. Buyers approach deals cautiously, but the strongest agreements are built on mutual respect between buyer and seller. By addressing these core elements, you’ll increase the likelihood of a smooth and successful transaction. Source: https://www.performancebusinessadvisory.ca/blog/assessing-your- businesss-sellability-price-isnt-everything Contact Us Performance Business Advisory Phone: (780) 756-2990 Email: info@performancebb.ca Website: https://www.performancebusinessadvisory.ca/ Address: 2nd Floor 4715 - 91 Avenue NW Edmonton Alberta T6B 2M7