Selling a business.
Your life's work. Ready for the next step.
You usually only sell a business once. And you want to do it right. Without fuss. Without regrets. And with a deal that is right – financially, legally and emotionally.
At Sophista, we guide entrepreneurs through the entire sales process. From the first idea to the last signature moment at the notary. With overview, experience and peace of mind. We provide structure, strategy and negotiating skills – so you can later let go with peace of mind.
Our approach in 4 steps.
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1
Preparation.
Peace of mind begins with overview.
We start with a clear analysis of your company and your needs. Where do you want to go? Do you want to exit completely or stay involved? And what kind of buyer suits your organization?
We arrange:
– Business scan and valuation
– Market analysis and buyer profile
– Strategic sales plan
– Information memorandumWe compile a long list of potential buyers and bring it down to a short list together. This way, we only approach parties that really fit.
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2
Marketing & negotiations.
Smart game. Well played.
Time to go to market. Anonymously and carefully. We get interested parties to sign a confidentiality agreement and then send them the information memorandum and a process letter. Then follow the conversations, bids and negotiations.
What we do:
– Send NDAs and documentation
– Organize management meetings
– Collect indicative bids
– Guide negotiations
– Prepare letter of intent (LOI)We guard your interests, pay attention to more than just price, and make sure the deal is right – including legal and strategic.
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3
Due diligence.
They go to see. We make sure it’s neat.
The buyer, of course, wants to know where he stands. So the due diligence starts: financial, tax, legal, commercial, sometimes ESG. Intensive? Yes. But we make sure it remains manageable.
Our role:
– Set up and fill data room
– Prepare answers to questionnaires
– Communicate with buyer’s advisors
– Point out risks and parry where necessaryBy organizing this tightly, you keep control and we go into the final phase well prepared.
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4
Deal closing.
Time for champagne. And autographs.
All the lights are green? Then it’s time for the closing. We make sure that all agreements are put down on paper. Clear contracts, without snags.
We usually arrange:
– Purchase agreement (SPA)
– Shareholders agreement (in case of partial sale)
– Loan agreement (in case of earn-out or subordinated loan)
– Lease agreement (in case of business premises left behind)
– Advisory agreement (if you stay on as advisor)After signing at the notary, it is complete. And you can look back – and forward – with peace of mind.
Our latest sales transactions
Granuband share transaction
Share transaction Houthandel Online
Frequently asked questions.
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When do I start preparing?
Rather too early than too late. 1 to 2 years in advance is ideal. This allows us to work on increasing value as well as a smooth transfer. A great period to prepare both you as an entrepreneur and your company for this next step.
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What is my business worth?
It depends on the numbers, but also on growth potential, dependencies and market position. We always make a reasoned valuation.
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Can I partly sell and partly stay on?
Sure. We see that often. We arrange the arrangements and make sure your new role is a good fit.
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What does it cost?
We work with a combination of a fixed price and a success fee. That way you know where you stand in advance, and we have the same interest as you: a good deal.
Ready for the next step?
Whether you’re already in serious discussions or just exploring your options, we’d be happy to help you figure things out. We’re open, honest, and knowledgeable. Contact us at info@sophista.nl or 072 540 8010.
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