Smart Exit Planning Strategies for Niche Markets

Selling a Gas Pipes Business

You've learned a lot during your tenure as a gas pipes business owner. The next step is to position your business for the demands of the business-for-sale marketplace.

If you plan on selling your gas pipes business quickly, prepare to be disappointed.

If your exit strategy involves selling a gas pipes business these days, business sellers may need to apply a combination of incentives and techniques.

What About Market Conditions?

At first glance, today's market would seem to be a hostile place for gas pipes business sellers. So far, government intervention and promises that the economy is slowly recovering haven't been enough to alleviate many entrepreneur's fears. But when the economy fully rebounds, a shadow inventory of gas pipes businesses will flood the market and drive prices down even further. Like it or not, the time to sell your gas pipes business may be right now, as long as your willing to adequately prepare your business for the marketplace.

How to Choose a Business Broker

Good business brokers inevitably produce better business sales. During the selection process, look for brokers with a proven track record of successful gas pipes business sales. Take our word for it -- gas pipes businesses are unique businesses and you need a broker who understands how to properly market your gas pipes business to prospective buyers. The best brokers should also come with a list of references, a demonstrable track record and a proven plan for selling gas pipes businesses.

Seller Financing

The shortage in today's marketplace isn't interested buyers -- it's capital. Financial institutions have tightened up their lending policies, making it difficult for inexperienced and undercapitalized entrepreneurs to buy gas pipes businesses. As a result, buyers expect sellers to finance a significant portion of the sale. Although 100% seller financing isn't recommended, sellers are financing up to 70% of the sale price to close deals.

Share this article


Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs

Lists of Venture Capital and Private Equity Firms

Franchise Opportunities

Contributors

Business Glossary