Exit Planning Advice By Market

Selling an Art Reproductions Business

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

Although we're optimistic about the economy, we also recognize that it takes the right strategy to sell an art reproductions business in today's market.

The business-for-sale market is extremely dynamic. Knowledgeable entrepreneurs understand that market timing isn't nearly as important as other factors in a art reproductions business sale. To improve sale outcomes, you will simply need to tailor your art reproductions business to today's buyers.

Finding Prospects

Whether you know it or not, prospective buyers for your art reproductions business are all around you. In fact, there is a good chance you already know several individuals or companies that might be interested in buying your business for a decent price. Although some art reproductions business sellers advertise their businesses in general classifieds, the most successful sales are those in which professional brokers seek out likely buyers. Competitors may seem like natural prospects and they are. The downside is that they won't pay top dollar and will probably absorb your company into their own.

Tips for Working with A Business Broker

Many sellers employ business brokers to manage the details and direction of their sale. It's typical for art reproductions business to rely on brokers to reduce market time and increase the final sales price. However, your broker will still expect you to materially participate in the sale of your business. Establish clear lines of communication with your broker and respond quickly to requests from prospective buyers. You should also assist your broker in listing your art reproductions business on BizBuySell.com and other online business-for-sale sites.

Negotiation 101

As a business seller, you have to be at the top of your negotiating game. More often than not, the person with the most knowledge will come out on top in an art reproductions business negotiation. But great negotiation begins with knowing yourself. What is the realistic price range for your art reproductions business? What is the minimum amount you're willing to settle on? Are you willing to offer seller financing or other concessions to close the deal? If you can't answer these questions, you're simply not ready to sit down at the negotiation table yet. If you aren't sure what you need, put negotiations on hold until you gain a clearer understanding of your own deal parameters.

Share this article


Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs

Lists of Venture Capital and Private Equity Firms

Franchise Opportunities

Contributors

Business Glossary