10 Common Myths About Selling A Business
There’s a lot of noise out there about what it takes to sell a business. These are the misconceptions I hear most often — and what’s actually true for small business owners.
| MYTH | REALITY |
| 1. I can sell my business quickly. | While many sales take several months, having clean books and a ready, funded buyer (like me) can sometimes shorten that timeline—but that’s the exception, not the rule. |
| 2. It’s like selling a house. | Business sales are more complex. They involve transferring relationships, knowledge, and operations—not just physical assets. Confidentiality and structure matter. |
| 3. I know what my business is worth. | Owners often over- or undervalue their business. True value is based on financials, cash flow, buyer interest, and how easily the business can operate without the owner. |
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4. I don’t need help—you just need a buyer. |
Selling involves more than finding a buyer. Advisors, brokers, or legal counsel can help protect confidentiality, handle due diligence, and structure the deal. |
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5. I’ll walk away as soon as I sell. |
Most transitions are gradual. Sellers often stay involved short-term—by choice—to guide the handoff and protect the business’s success. |
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6. A solid business will sell itself. |
Even profitable businesses take 6–9 months to sell on average. In fact, brokers only sell 10-20% of their listing overall. Attracting the right buyer, managing confidentiality, and preparing documentation takes strategy and intention. |
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7. Only distressed businesses are hard to sell. |
Even healthy businesses face hurdles—like customer concentration, lack of documentation, or reliance on the owner. Planning helps avoid surprises. |
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8. I have to have everything figured out before I talk to someone. |
You don’t. Many owners begin with low-pressure conversations to explore their options—well before making a decision. |
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9. Any buyer is a good buyer. |
The right buyer should align with your values, team, and goals. Fit matters—not just funding. |
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10. I should wait to involve professionals until later. |
Starting with a conversation is fine, but when things get serious, legal counsel is essential to protect your interests and ensure a fair agreement. |
If you're exploring the idea of selling — now or in the future — and want to understand what this process could look like for your business, I'm happy to have a conversation. Book your discovery call here.