Most owners who type "I want to sell my business" aren't ready to list it tomorrow. They want to know what the first few steps are, and whether they're making a mistake by starting. Here is a simple order of operations.
Step 1: Write down why and when
Retirement, health, burnout, a partner leaving, a new opportunity. Your reason shapes your timeline and the kind of deal you'll accept. Write a target date and a "must have" list (for example: my crew keeps their jobs, I'm done in 6 months, I keep the building).
Step 2: Gather the documents a buyer will ask for
- Last three years of business tax returns and profit-and-loss statements, plus year to date.
- A list of owner perks and one-time expenses run through the business (add-backs).
- Equipment and vehicle list, leases, key customer and supplier contracts.
- Licenses, permits and local business tax receipts.
Step 3: Get a realistic starting value
Use our free valuation estimator for a rough range, then read how trade businesses are valued. Expect buyers to focus on earnings and how much the business depends on you.
Step 4: Fix the easy things
Separate personal expenses, renew expired licenses, catch up on equipment maintenance and write down how key jobs get done. Small fixes remove reasons for a buyer to lower the price.
Step 5: Choose how to sell
List with a business broker, sell directly to a buyer, or sell to an employee or family member. Each has trade-offs; see broker vs. direct buyer.
Step 6: Line up your advisors
A business attorney and a CPA who understand small business sales. They protect you on structure and taxes. See taxes when selling a business in Florida.
Step 7: Keep it quiet
Don't tell employees or customers yet. Use an NDA before sharing financials. Read how to sell confidentially.
If you own a service, trade or industrial business in Palm Beach, Broward or Miami-Dade, a no-pressure conversation with us is a fine first step, even if you're a year or more away.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Consult your own attorney and CPA.