Can Selling Your Business give you More Time for Life?
hey say money can’t buy happiness… but it sure can buy you things that make you happy. But the acquisition of money is often a very time-consuming thing. I have lost count of the number of business owners who have come to me saying, “I have a successful business, but no time to enjoy the proceeds.” Long days in the office, lost weekends dealing with urgent issues, and holidays spent with one eye firmly on what is happening back at home, eventually take their toll.
Because you are so busy with running your business, you have probably engaged a wealth manager to help look after the money that you are generating. If you haven’t then I strongly suggest you do. But the real value of having a wealth manager is in helping you turn the tables and instead of working for money, make money work for you!
This is where an exit strategy for your business comes in. If you are reading this then the chances are you have a successful business, but it is also likely that it doesn’t quite hold the same thrill as it used to, when time was just a four-letter word. Selling a business can help you realise value and walk away, which may just be the opportunity to “buy” back the time you crave. Time with friends and family, time to perfect that golf swing, time to travel, time to do all of those things you have been putting off for years.
If that sounds like you then here are a few things you might want to consider:
- Start slowly – even if the will is there, unhooking yourself from a business is not an easy process, so give yourself time. Look to promote from within, bring in a good lieutenant who can start to take on some of the responsibility and attend some meetings on your behalf. You may also want to consider allocating yourself some personal days in the diary, where all staff know you are not to be disturbed – there is very little, after all, that cannot hold for one day!
- Seek wealth management advice – I have already suggested strongly that if you don’t have one, you should engage with a wealth manager. It makes a lot of sense, and they are well placed to help you understand how much cash you actually need, to lead the life you want to live.
- Explore the sale process with Entrepreneurs Hub and gain practical insight into how to sell your business for maximum value. When you’re ready, we’d be happy to meet with you for a confidential conversation about your next steps.
There is a phrase you may be familiar with – money rich, time poor! If that resonates with you then I would encourage you to take some action. You may not be able to buy back time you have lost, but what you do with the time that is in front of you is in your hands.
If you are ready to sell, but you suspect your business is not then don’t give up. Entrepreneurs Hub are business brokers with a difference. We are not just interested in taking your business to market, we are interested in taking your business to market in the best shape possible and as a result maximising value. We work with business owners to prepare their business for sale, however long it takes.
Why don’t you get in touch and we would be happy to meet with you, in strict confidence, to discuss your situation.
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FAQs – Selling Your Company
How do I sell my business in the UK?
Selling a business in the UK typically involves preparing financial information, obtaining a valuation, identifying suitable buyers and negotiating the terms of a sale. Most owners work with an M&A adviser to manage the process confidentially, approach qualified buyers and maximise the value achieved.
At Entrepreneurs Hub, we talk about five key areas that make the difference between success and failure when selling your business. Read more…
What is my business worth?
A business is typically valued using a multiple of its profit, usually EBITDA or adjusted net profit. The multiple depends on factors such as growth potential, recurring revenue, customer diversification and management strength. Professional valuation provides a realistic price range and helps position the business effectively for buyers.
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?
Selling a business in the UK typically takes between six and nine months from preparation to completion. The timeline depends on business readiness, buyer demand and the complexity of due diligence. Early preparation and clear financial reporting can help shorten the process.
When is the best time to sell a business?
The best time to sell a business is when it is performing strongly, growth prospects are clear and you are not under pressure to sell.
Business owners often achieve the strongest outcomes when:
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Profits and revenue are growing
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Financial records are clear and well prepared
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There is visible future growth for buyers
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The owner has planned the sale 12–18 months in advance
Market conditions can also influence valuations. Strong buyer demand, sector growth and favourable economic conditions can increase acquisition activity, but a well-prepared business can attract interest in most markets.
Deal activity often increases during spring and autumn, although transactions complete throughout the year. In practice, preparation and business performance usually matter more than trying to perfectly time the market.
Ultimately, the best time to sell is when both the business and the owner are ready, with the company positioned to demonstrate strong value to potential buyers.
Do I need an adviser to sell my business?
Many business owners choose to work with an M&A adviser to manage the sale process. Advisers help value the business, approach qualified buyers confidentially and negotiate terms. This structured approach can increase the likelihood of achieving a higher value and a successful transaction.
How is confidentiality protected during a sale?
Confidentiality is protected through controlled information sharing, anonymous buyer approaches and strict non-disclosure agreements. Potential buyers receive limited information initially and must sign an NDA before any sensitive details are released. Business owners approve prospective buyers and maintain visibility over all documentation throughout the process.
How do I value my business before selling?
Valuing a business before selling usually involves analysing profitability, identifying valuation multiples and assessing key value drivers such as recurring revenue and customer concentration.
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…
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…