I need help preparing my business for sale.

Understood — preparing your business for sale is a strategic process that can significantly impact its valuation and the success of the transaction. At the executive level, you’ll want to focus on several key areas:

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### 🔑 **1. Financial Readiness**
– **Clean financial statements** (preferably audited or reviewed by a CPA)
– **Normalize EBITDA** by adjusting for one-time expenses, owner perks, or non-recurring costs
– **Detailed financial forecasting** to show growth potential
– **Strong working capital management** (cash flow, receivables, inventory)

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### 🧾 **2. Legal & Structural Readiness**
– Ensure all **corporate documents**, contracts, and licenses are in order
– Resolve any **pending litigation** or compliance issues
– Ensure **IP ownership** is clearly documented
– Review or restructure for **tax efficiency** (e.g., asset vs. stock sale considerations)

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### 💼 **3. Operational Readiness**
– Document **processes, SOPs, org charts**, and key KPIs
– Identify and retain **key talent** with stay-bonus plans or contracts
– Evaluate technology systems and **cybersecurity posture**

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### 🧲 **4. Market & Strategic Positioning**
– Define your **value proposition** in the market
– Highlight **growth opportunities** and **competitive advantages**
– Understand your likely **buyer types**: strategic, financial (private equity), or individual investors

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### 💬 **5. Advisor Team & Timing**
– Assemble a team: **M&A advisor or investment banker**, **lawyer**, **accountant**, and possibly a **tax strategist**
– Start with a **valuation** to set expectations
– Consider timing: Is now the right market window?

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Would you like a custom checklist or timeline to manage the sale prep process? Or do you want to dive into valuation, tax planning, or attracting buyers next?