Is My Business Ready to Sell?

A Pre-Sale Readiness Checklist for Business Owners | Shamoun Business Brokers

Use this checklist to evaluate your readiness before putting your business on the market. The more boxes you can check, the stronger your position — and the higher your sale price.

FINANCIAL READINESS

3 years of federal tax returns (business) are organized and accessible
Profit & Loss statements for last 3 years — seller-prepared and CPA-reviewed
Current year-to-date financials (within 90 days)
All accounts receivable and payable are up to date
Owner compensation, perks, and add-backs have been identified
Business has consistent, demonstrable cash flow and profitability

LEGAL & COMPLIANCE READINESS

Business licenses are current (state, county, city)
Seller's Permit / CDTFA registration is active and in good standing
All corporate or LLC filings are current (Statement of Information, etc.)
No outstanding lawsuits, liens, or legal disputes
No outstanding lawsuits, liens, or legal disputes
ABC License status is current (if applicable — restaurant/bar)
Entity documents on file: Operating Agreement, Articles of Incorporation, or Trust docs

OPERATIONAL READINESS

The business can operate without you being present every day
Key employees are in place and likely to stay through a transition
Employee list with roles, salaries, and benefits is documented
All vendor and supplier contracts are in writing and transferable
Customer contracts and recurring revenue are documented
Equipment, FF&E list with estimated values is prepared
Inventory is counted and valued
Operations manual or standard procedures exist (even informal)

BRAND & INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Business name and trademarks are registered or clearly owned
Domain name(s) and website are owned by the business entity
Social media accounts are in the business name (not personal accounts)
Customer database / CRM is documented and transferable
Any proprietary processes, formulas, or methods are documented

REAL ESTATE (IF APPLICABLE)

Property lease terms are documented; remaining term is favorable
Lease is assignable or landlord has been approached about transfer
If selling real estate: title is clear; no delinquent taxes or open liens
Certificate of Occupancy matches current business use
No open permits or outstanding code enforcement violations

PERSONAL READINESS

I have a clear picture of what I want from the sale (price, terms, timeline)
I understand my tax obligations from the sale (consulted a CPA)
I have a plan for what I will do after the business is sold
I am emotionally prepared to let go of the business
My family or key advisors are aware and supportive of my exit plans

Not sure how many boxes you can check? That's exactly why you need a conversation.

I help business owners get market-ready and sell for maximum value. Let’s talk.