5 Signs It’s the Right Time to Sell Your Company
In business – as in life – success often comes down to taking the right action at the right time. One of the most common questions we’re asked by business owners is: “When is the best time to sell my company?”
The truth is, timing is everything. While every situation is unique, there are some clear indicators that now could be the right time to sell your business. Here are five signs to look out for:
1. Business is Going Well
It may feel counterintuitive, but one of the best times to sell is when your business is performing strongly. A healthy turnover, solid profits, and a skilled, motivated workforce are all highly desirable to potential buyers. Too many owners wait until performance dips before thinking about exit – but by then, value has already been eroded.
If you can go to market highlighting growth, strong financials, and a great team, you’ll create a far more attractive buyer proposition – and secure a better price. Sometimes, the smartest move is to quit while you’re ahead.
2. The Market is Thriving
What’s happening in your industry right now? Staying close to market trends – both current and forecasted – is key to timing your exit for maximum value. When conditions are strong, demand rises and buyers are more willing to pay a premium.
If your business has international appeal, consider global dynamics too, such as favourable exchange rates, which could attract overseas buyers. Proactive business owners monitor these factors carefully so they can step through the right door when it opens.
3. Your Passion is Fading
Running a business demands energy, drive, and focus. If you find yourself running on autopilot, lacking motivation, or simply craving new challenges, it may be a sign that it’s time to move on.
When passion fades, business performance can follow – and that impacts sale value. Recognising this early and planning your exit while things are still strong will protect the legacy you’ve built and give you the freedom to pursue what’s next.
4. You’re in a Position of Choice, Not Need
The strongest negotiating position is always one of choice. Yet many business owners only think about selling when they have to – whether due to health, stress, or external pressures. When you don’t need to sell, you can walk away from offers that don’t meet your expectations. That puts you in control of timing, price, and terms – and makes for a far more successful outcome.
5. Tax Considerations
For some owners, tax planning plays a role in deciding when to sell. For example, if you’re eligible for Business Asset Disposal Relief (previously Entrepreneurs’ Relief), you could pay just 10% tax on qualifying gains.
While this can be a strong motivator, it’s important not to base your entire decision on tax. Instead, weigh it as part of the bigger picture – alongside business performance, market conditions, and personal readiness.
Is Now the Right Time for You?
These are just a handful of the signs it could be the right moment to sell your business. The best way to know for sure is to speak to an experienced adviser who can help you assess the saleability of your company, its potential value, and the options available to you.
At Entrepreneurs Hub, we’ve helped hundreds of owners prepare, position, and sell their businesses for maximum value. If you’d like to explore whether now could be the right time for you, get in touch for a confidential conversation.
👉 Contact us today to find out how we can support your journey. info@entrepreneurshub.co.uk
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FAQs – Selling Your Company
What is the best way to sell a business in the UK?
At Entrepreneurs Hub, we talk about five key areas that make the difference between success and failure when selling your business. Read more…
How much can I sell my business for?
Determining your business’s value is more than just calculating a number it’s complex with key factors, that said the basic equation is actually quite simple. Read more…
How long does it take to sell a business in the UK?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the deal and how ready the business is for sale. On average, the process takes around twelve months – sometimes less, sometimes more.
While preparing your business for sale, Entrepreneurs Hub conducts in-depth research to identify potential acquirers. You’ll have the opportunity to review and approve this list before we make any approaches. Once the business is fully prepared – often the most time-consuming step, we begin marketing it. Typically, you’ll start seeing initial interest within a few months, with follow-up meetings happening shortly after.
As these meetings progress – coordinated and facilitated by Entrepreneurs Hub, you’ll begin receiving initial offers. At this stage, we’ll help you assess the strategic fit between your business and potential buyers. When you decide to move forward with an offer, an exclusivity period begins, during which the acquirer conducts Due Diligence (DD).
The DD phase typically lasts two to three months, depending on the complexity of your business. Once complete, the sale is finalised, and you’ve successfully sold your company.
What’s the quickest way to sell a company?
Selling a business quickly is possible, but speed shouldn’t come at the expense of value or deal security Read more…
When is the best time to sell a business?
Selling your business is a major milestone, and the start of an exciting new chapter, whether that means new ventures or a well-earned retirement.
In our experience, the best time to sell is when you don’t need to – when your business is performing well – not necessarily tied to the calendar. That said, timing can still play a role.
Timing the Market
Strong economic conditions, sector growth, and buyer confidence boost valuations. Don’t wait for a “perfect” market – a well-prepared, well-performing business sells in any climate.
Plan Ahead (12–18 Months)
The best outcomes come from early planning: clean financials, solid forecasting and growth potential.
Spring & Autumn Are Active Periods
The M&A market is typically busier in spring and autumn while summer and winter tend to be slower due to holidays and year-end distractions. However, the unpredictability of deals and negotiations makes this hard to target. We do deals all throughout the year – the key is to work with someone who can keep driving the deal forward whenever it happens.
Financial Year- End
Selling your business well is a long process and aiming for your financial year-end milestone is a virtually impossible task. But it is worth bearing your financial year in mind as buyers will want to review the most up-to-date accounts available.
The best time to sell is when your business is ready, and you are too. With the right preparation and positioning the right timing follows naturally.
What’s the best way to sell a business online?
Yes, you absolutely can sell a business online. Many platforms specialise in connecting business sellers with buyers. Read more…