Sell Your Business for Top Dollar with These 3 Strategic Moves

If you're a small business owner thinking about selling, chances are you're not just looking for any deal—you want to sell at the best possible price.

Here’s the catch: most businesses listed for sale don’t make it to the finish line. In fact, around 80% don’t sell at all, and over half of accepted offers fall apart before closing.

With the right preparation, you can avoid those odds and put yourself in a strong position to get the return you deserve. Here are three practical ways to raise your business's value before heading to market:

1. Trim the Extras

Let’s be honest—most businesses carry some financial “clutter.” It might be outdated software subscriptions, unused office space, or a few extra people on the payroll who aren’t pulling their weight (yes, even if they’re family). While these things might seem small, they make a big impact when a buyer is reviewing your numbers. What buyers want to see is clean, efficient financials that show where the money’s going—and why.

Here’s where to start:

• Do a full financial audit

• Cut unnecessary software or tools

• Phase out roles that don’t contribute to growth

• Boost your margins where possible

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Getting lean now will help improve your EBITDA—a key factor buyers use to determine how much your business is worth.

2. Make Sure Your Business Doesn’t Rely on You

This is a tough one for a lot of owners—especially those who’ve been involved in every detail from day one.

But here’s the truth: the more your business depends on you, the less valuable it looks to a buyer. Think about it... if a new owner can’t step in without everything falling apart, they’ll either walk away or significantly lower their offer.

Start delegating. Train your team. Create clear systems and processes so that your business can keep running without you.

Ask yourself:

• Could I step away for 30 days without chaos?

• Are systems documented and easy to follow?

• Can my team handle the day-to-day without my constant input?

The more self-sufficient your business becomes, the more attractive it will be to serious buyers.

3. Don’t “Check Out” Too Early

Once you decide to sell, it’s easy to mentally shift into vacation mode. But letting your performance dip before the deal is done can seriously damage your leverage.

Buyers are watching everything—especially how committed and organized you are during negotiations.

So stay sharp:

• Keep your numbers consistent or growing

• Hit your monthly goals

• Be prepared to explain and defend your valuation

• Stay engaged with your team and your customers

  
  

You’re not just selling a business—you’re selling a future. Buyers want to know the business is thriving today, not just coasting off past success.

If you're hoping to sell your business for top dollar, the work starts well before the “for sale” sign goes up. The best exits happen when owners begin preparing 12 to 36 months in advance.

Here’s a quick recap:

• Cut what’s not serving you

• Build systems that don’t rely on you

• Stay engaged until the ink is dry

  
  

These three strategies can significantly increase your business’s value—and your chances of walking away with a deal you're proud of.

Thinking of Selling?

If you’re planning to exit and want a trusted guide through the process—from valuation to closing—I'm here to help. Let’s schedule a conversation and map out the right path for your business. Give me a call at 615-988-0518.