08/21/2026
I recently had a conversation with a business owner client who is considering selling their business in the not too distant future.
As we talked through the opportunity, it became clear that the discussion wasn't really about the sale price.
In fact, the first question wasn't, "What is my business worth?"
It was, "What do I want my life to look like after the sale?"
Too often, business owners focus exclusively on maximizing the purchase price. While that's certainly important, it's only one piece of a much larger puzzle.
Without a comprehensive exit plan, even a successful sale can be impacted by taxes, wealth transfer challenges, succession concerns, or a lack of clarity around personal and family goals.
The most successful exits start with a broader conversation:
• What are your objectives for life after the business?
• How will taxes affect your net proceeds?
• Who will lead the business moving forward?
• How will you protect and manage your wealth after the transaction?
• What legacy do you want to leave behind?
In short, a business sale is more than a financial transaction; it's a major life transition.
The owners who experience the greatest success are often those who begin planning well before they go to market and take a comprehensive approach to the process.
The sale price gets the attention. But, the planning behind the sale often determines the outcome.
The attached thought leadership article does an excellent job highlighting why business owners should think beyond valuation and consider the broader financial, operational, and personal implications of an exit strategy.
If you're a business owner contemplating an eventual transition, are you preparing your business for sale, or are you preparing yourself for what comes next?
I'd love to hear your thoughts. What's the most overlooked aspect of exit planning?
