Exit Readiness Assessment
Most business owners discover they weren't ready to sell only after they've started the process — when it's too late to fix the problems that are costing them millions. This assessment changes that.
80%
of businesses listed for sale never close a transaction
3–5 yrs
optimal preparation window before a maximum-value exit
40%
average value increase from a structured exit preparation process
Six Dimensions of Exit Readiness
Click each category to see what "ready" looks like — and what buyers will find if you're not.
Clean, auditable financials are the foundation of every successful exit. Buyers pay premiums for businesses with 3+ years of documented, normalized financials.
Ready Indicators
- 3 years of clean, reviewed or audited financial statements
- EBITDA clearly documented and normalized for owner add-backs
- Working capital requirements understood and documented
- No personal expenses run through the business
- Revenue and customer concentration below 20% for any single client
Not Ready Indicators
- Financials prepared only for tax minimization
- Owner compensation not separated from business profit
- Significant undocumented cash transactions
- Single customer represents 30%+ of revenue
Your Timeline Changes Everything
The earlier you start, the more options you have — and the higher the price you can command.
Urgent Preparation
Focus on the highest-impact items: clean financials, key employee retention agreements, and basic documentation. You may leave value on the table, but a transaction is achievable.
Optimal Window
The ideal preparation window. Enough time to implement all six readiness categories, demonstrate growth trends, and command premium multiples from multiple buyer types.
Strategic Build
Maximum flexibility. Build the business you want to own while simultaneously building the business a buyer will pay the most for. These goals are not in conflict.
Don't Wait Until You're Ready to Sell
The best time to prepare for an exit is years before you need one. Start with a complimentary valuation and readiness review.
Get My Readiness Assessment