Exit Planning Advice

Selling a Kerosene Business

No one said selling your business in a depressed economy would be easy. Fortunately, a kerosene business sale isn't as scary as it seems.

Most entrepreneurs have the skills and stamina to endure and prosper during the sale ofa kerosene business.

There is no simple way to sell a business. But the most prepared kerosene business sellers are achieving fair market value and more for their companies through persistence and the application of sound selling techniques.

Broker vs. No Broker

The decision of whether or not to hire a business broker should never be taken lightly. Is there a cost associated with hiring a broker? Sure - about 10% of the final sale prices. But a good broker will make selling your kerosene business much less painful. You can also expect to receive a higher sales price for your business in a broker-assisted deal.

Maintaining Objectivity

Objectivity is a rare commodity in a business sale. You have invested yourself in making your kerosene business the success it is today, but in the eyes of prospective buyers, your operation is only worth fair market value. Although it may be a hard pill to swallow, you need to find a way to introduce objectivity into your sale. A business broker can be a valuable resource in right-sizing your expectations and preparing you for market realities.

The Case for Confidentiality

Confidentiality determines risk in the business-for-sale marketplace. A low-key selling strategy is a low risk activity because you can control who does (and doesn't) know that your business is on the market. But if word leaks out to the wrong people, your competitors can use that information to steal business and damage your credibility. Although it can be difficult, it's important to strike a balance between confidentiality and sale promotion. If confidentiality is important to you (and it should be), your best bet is to consult with a professional business broker about maintaining a confidential kerosene business sale.

Share this article


Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs

Lists of Venture Capital and Private Equity Firms

Franchise Opportunities

Contributors

Business Glossary