If you’re contemplating a business sale, odds are good you’ve never done this before—and that even if you have, it’s only been once or twice. Selling a business is a skill that demands practice, which many sellers lack. To get the most out of the sale, avoid these rookie mistakes:

You’ve committed a significant chunk of your time, and maybe of your life, to your business. You’ll never know when the best time to sell is until after the fact. This uncertainty is enough to push many owners over the edge. Others continually delay putting their company on the market, hoping the market will continually rise. It won’t. Here’s how to live with the uncertainty and find the right time to sell your company. Here are the basic criteria you need to evaluate before putting your company on the market. 

Selling your business is not something you do suddenly. The further ahead you think, the more successful a sale has the potential to be. Here are the biggest mistakes sellers make when putting a business on the market.

The independent spirit of many entrepreneurs is a key factor in their success. When you sell your business, however, a DIY approach is almost always a recipe for disaster. No matter whom you sell your company to, you likely have little experience selling a business. Going it alone almost inevitably means losing money and time. Here’s how a business broker can make the process easier and more profitable.

You’ve dedicated years, maybe even decades, to your business. So don’t gamble when it comes to turning that work into cash as you plan an exit. Exit planning begins with assessing the opportunities and risks a buyer would likely see during due diligence. This empowers you to proactively position your business for a lucrative sale, while marketing to the right buyers. 

Whether you’re planning an exit now or assessing options for the future, you’ve already accomplished something most people never will. Selling your company is probably something you’ll do just once, so take time to prepare for the sale so you can get the most out of the process. These seven steps can help prepare your business for a successful sale. 

Selling your company can feel daunting, but there is a proven model for increasing business value and successfully closing deals. The goal here is to focus on drivers of valuation. Here’s what you need to know. 

Selling your business for a fair price can be an exhausting undertaking. This can be exhausting and stressful, especially when you’re still trying to keep your business running. You don’t have to be an expert in power dynamics or mind-reading to sell for a high price, though. A few simple tips focus on the basics of a successful business, ensuring your business looks like an enticing investment to the right buyer. To minimize stress while maximizing gains, try these strategies: