Financial records
Gather several years of business tax returns and financial statements, current year-to-date results, bank records and an explanation of accounting methods. Reconcile differences before a buyer discovers them. Identify receivables, payables, debt and seasonal cash requirements.
Operational continuity
List your weekly responsibilities and the people who can cover them. Document estimating, scheduling, purchasing, quality control and customer service. Build an honest transition plan around the work that currently depends on the owner.
Customers and contracts
Prepare a customer concentration schedule using anonymized identifiers at first. Review recurring agreements, cancellation rights, pricing commitments and assignment provisions. Explain customer relationships with evidence rather than assuming loyalty will automatically transfer.
People and credentials
Map employee roles, tenure, compensation and required qualifications. Identify any license or qualifying individual tied to the current owner. Plan confidential information sharing and employee communications with advisers so the process respects the people involved.
Assets and occupancy
Create equipment and inventory schedules, identify liens and gather maintenance records. Collect the premises lease or property information for review by the appropriate licensed professional. Do not promise occupancy terms you cannot control.
Owner decisions
Confirm ownership authority, personal goals, included assets and acceptable transition commitments. Discuss tax consequences, legal structure and debt payoffs with qualified advisers before relying on a gross asking price as your retirement proceeds.
Related resources
Seller checklist · The sale process · Our role and licensed partners
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