Our Process
1. Consultation
Sunstate Business Brokers will take the time to understand your business and its unique characteristics. We’ll walk you through our services, explain the process, discuss associated costs, and outline what to expect throughout the journey of selling your business—all with complete confidentiality. This meeting ensures you have the clarity and insight needed to make informed decisions as you move forward.
2. Valuation
Our business valuation process is designed to provide an accurate and insightful assessment of your company’s worth. We begin by analyzing key financial metrics, industry trends, and market conditions to develop a comprehensive understanding of your business. We also consider qualitative factors such as competitive positioning, growth potential, and operational strengths. The result is a clear and well-supported valuation that reflects the true value of your business in today’s market, helping you make informed decisions for future planning or sale.
3. Marketing
Once you partner with Sunstate, we immediately begin preparing your business for sale. We compile all necessary information into detailed marketing profiles that highlight the key differentiators and strengths of your business—while ensuring that no sensitive details or names are disclosed. These profiles, along with additional marketing materials, are shared with our extensive network of prospective buyers, as well as through online platforms and more. Throughout this process, we take great care to maintain your business’s confidentiality, using generic descriptions instead of the actual company name to protect your privacy.
4. Screening
All incoming inquiries are subject to a thorough pre-screening process to ensure that prospective buyers are both serious and financially qualified to purchase your business. To protect your confidentiality, all potential buyers are required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), provide proof of financial capability, and submit a bio or resume. In addition, we guide them through the buying process. Before sharing any sensitive information, we review qualified buyers with you.
5. Offer Review/Negotiation
When a prospective buyer is ready to move forward, an “Offer for Purchase” or a “Letter of Intent” (LOI). This document outlines the key terms of the offer, including the proposed purchase price, payment structure, training and transition period, any necessary employment or non-compete agreements, and other relevant conditions. We review the offer with you in detail, explaining each component and discussing your options. Collectively we decide the appropriate response which could be to accept, reject, or negotiate specific terms, providing expert guidance to help you make the best decision for your desired outcome.
6. Due Diligence
The “due diligence” period begins once the parties have committed to the acquisition of the company. During this time, the buyer requests detailed financial statements, bank records, contracts with suppliers and customers, leases, and other relevant documents. This phase usually lasts between 30-60 days, depending on the complexity of the business. The purpose is to confirm that the business has been accurately represented, ensuring that revenue and profits align with expectations. While minor discrepancies are often overlooked, significant differences or unexpected issues are scrutinized. Throughout this process, our team is there to support you, securely managing the exchange of information and providing expert assistance.
7. Closing
The closing occurs once due diligence is completed, the financing is in place, and the parties have duly executed the purchase agreement. At Sunstate, we remain with you every step of the way, addressing any last-minute questions or concerns. We also recommend experienced legal and financial professionals, including attorneys and accountants, to assist with financial analysis, legal documents, and tax planning. Our focus is to ensure you receive your funds and have all the necessary documentation to close. The entire process, from offer acceptance to closing, typically takes 60-75 days, though timelines can vary.
The process of selling businesses at Sunstate Business Brokers has been refined over the years into a streamlined system designed to help business owners achieve successful outcomes while maximizing their returns. With extensive experience facilitating the sale of hundreds of businesses, our advisors are well-equipped to leverage that expertise on your behalf. Once we collectively define your transaction timeline, we invite you to explore our comprehensive seven-step process for selling your business: