Home / SELLER READINESS CHECKLIST SELLER READINESS CHECKLIST
Make your businessready for a buyer. Use this practical checklist to find gaps before diligence begins. You do not need perfect records to start a conversation, but knowing what is missing helps you plan.
01 Financial records Three years of tax returns, annual P&Ls and balance sheets; current year-to-date and monthly comparisons; payroll and sales records. Reconcile differences before marketing.
02 Earnings adjustments Document any proposed owner compensation, discretionary expenses or nonrecurring adjustments. Include replacement labor and recurring expenses that a buyer will still incur.
03 Customers & revenue Prepare an anonymized customer concentration report, recurring contract schedule, renewal history and service or product margins.
04 People & owner role List job roles, compensation, key employees and the tasks only you perform. Create a transition plan and operating procedures that reduce dependence on you.
05 Assets & obligations Inventory equipment, vehicles, stock, debt, liens, leases, prepaid customer balances and open warranties. Separate personal assets from business assets.
06 Location & agreements Gather the lease, renewal options, landlord consent provisions, franchise or supplier agreements and any permits. Identify approvals that may be needed.
One more list: your goals. Write down your preferred timing, desired price, minimum cash needs, willingness to provide training, and whether you want to retain any property. Share these goals early so the sale process reflects your priorities.
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