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Writer's pictureDan Cruden

You’re about to Exit Your Business: How M&A Advisory Services Can Maximize Your Success

Updated: Mar 13, 2023

Q: What are the key things to consider when hiring an M&A advisor to maximize the value of a business transaction?



A: When hiring an M&A advisor to maximize the value of a business transaction, it's important to consider the following:


Qualities to look for in an M&A advisor: Look for an advisor with experience and expertise in your industry and deal size, good communication skills, and a good working relationship with you.


Services to expect from an M&A advisor: Valuation, preparation for the sale, negotiation with potential buyers, assistance in the due diligence process, and help with deal structuring to minimize risks and tax implications.


Negotiating compensation for an M&A advisor: Possible fee structures include an hourly rate, flat fee, and the success fee, and you may consider offering a higher success fee if the advisor is able to negotiate a higher price.


Conducting a competitive process: It's generally a good idea to conduct a competitive process, even if you have a potential buyer in the pipeline, to ensure that you get the best possible deal and create a sense of urgency among potential buyers.


Here’s a more detailed out of the Qualities to look for in an M&A advisor:

Experience: Look for an advisor with a strong track record of successful transactions in your industry and/or deal size.

Expertise: The advisor should have a deep understanding of the M&A process, including valuation, due diligence, negotiations, and deal structuring.

Communication: Your advisor should be a good listener and communicator, keeping you informed and involved in the process at every step.

Chemistry: It's important to have a good working relationship with your advisor, as you will be working closely together during a potentially stressful and complex process.


Services to expect from an M&A advisor:

Valuation: Your advisor will help you determine the value of your business and advise on pricing strategies.

Preparation: The advisor will help you prepare for the sale, including creating marketing materials and identifying potential buyers.

Negotiation: The advisor will negotiate with potential buyers on your behalf to maximize the value of the transaction.

Due diligence: The advisor will assist in the due diligence process, ensuring that the buyer is fully informed about the business and its potential.

Deal structuring: The advisor will help structure the deal to minimize tax implications and other risks.


Negotiating compensation for an M&A advisor:

If you sourced the deal yourself, you may be able to negotiate a lower fee with your advisor.

Possible fee structures include:

Hourly rate: The advisor charges an hourly rate for their services.

Flat fee: The advisor charges a set fee for their services.

Success fee: The advisor charges a percentage of the final sale price.

You may also consider setting a sales price and offering the advisor a higher success fee if they are able to negotiate a higher price.


Conducting a competitive process:

It's generally a good idea to conduct a competitive process even if you have a potential buyer in the pipeline. This can help ensure that you are getting the best possible deal and can create a sense of urgency among potential buyers, leading to higher offers.





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