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Question

When should I start business transition planning?

Answer

Start three to five years before you intend to sell. That window is long enough to complete entity restructuring, satisfy QSBS holding periods, establish trust structures, and improve the operational metrics buyers price on. None of these can be implemented retroactively, which is why pre-liquidity planning done early produces materially different results than planning done under a deal timeline.

Related FAQs

I already have a letter of intent. Is it too late to get help?

What size of business do you work with?

Do you replace my investment banker or M&A attorney?

What happens after the deal closes?
Work & Business Business Owners Selling Your Business Business Transitions FAQs
Last Updated Aug. 5, 2026
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