Preparing to Sell

Deal Timeline

The expected schedule from first buyer conversations to closing. Why it matters: A realistic timeline helps the owner plan around operations, advisor work, buyer deadlines, lender reviews, legal drafting, and closing conditions.

Related terms

Closing Conditions
Things that must happen before the deal can close. Why it matters: This term affects what must happen at closing, how money moves, and how final obligations are documented.
Advisor
A professional who helps with the sale, such as a broker, M&A advisor, CPA, attorney, or investment banker. Why it matters: The right advisor can help prepare materials, explain tradeoffs, manage buyers, reduce surprises, and keep the owner from negotiating complex deal terms alone.
Closing
The moment when the sale officially happens and ownership transfers. Why it matters: This term affects what must happen at closing, how money moves, and how final obligations are documented.
Lender
A bank or financing company that provides debt. Why it matters: This gives owners a clearer way to understand buyer questions, advisor comments, and negotiation tradeoffs during a sale process.
Buyer
The person, company, investor, or fund trying to buy the business. Why it matters: Different buyers value different things, so knowing the buyer type helps an owner understand likely questions, risks, financing needs, and negotiation style.

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