Business Exits By Industry
Selling a Container Services Business
Most businesses are susceptible to economic conditions and container services businesses are no exception. But in some cases, a down economy can actually improve saleability. All it takes is a strategy to identify solid prospects and convert them to buyers.
In a down economy, many container services business sellers wait to list their businesses until they see signs that the economy has rebounded, making it difficult to accurately evaluate the number of container services businesses that are actually for sale.
The business-for-sale market is extremely dynamic. That's why we think it's important for container services business owners to know that it's possible to sell a business in any economy. You just need to know your buyers and structure the deal accordingly.
When to End Negotiations
Negotiations have a way of dragging on forever. But sooner or later, someone needs to bring negotiations to a close. Unfortunately, that responsibility often falls on the seller. In a container services business sale, a stalled negotiation can be an indication that the deal is dead. At this point in the process, an awareness of negotiation parameters really pays off. If the buyer is unwilling to accept your minimum demands, it's time to end negotiations and move on to the next prospect.
When the Sale Goes Off-Course
Many container services business are tempted to save brokerage fees by selling their businesses on their own. But for every successful unassisted sale, several other container services businesses sell below market value or languish on the market for years without attracting the interest of qualified buyers. If you decide to go solo and your business has been on the market for more than six months without a single buyer inquiry, it's time to hire a professional business broker. When buyers fail to exhibit substantive interest, it could indicate unrealistic pricing or an inferior selling strategy. The remedy is professional brokerage or a consultation with more experienced sellers.
Preparing Family Members
Many sellers embarked on their container services business sale without adequately considering the impact it will have on their families. Whether you realize it or not, your container services business has been an important part of your family life. The sale of the business will likely result in new family dynamics. Subsequently, selling a container services business should allow opportunities for all family members to share their feelings and offer input about the sale process.
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