Business Exit Planning
72% of all businesses fail to sell under their terms, or at all.
The process of successfully transitioning a business shouldn’t begin one, three or even five years before the owner plans to retire. Instead, exit planning should be a strategy that begins on day one of the business, with a focus on growing the company’s value over time so the owner is ready to transition the business on his or her own terms, when the timing is right.
Minimize Tax Implications
We help you navigate the complexities of exit planning by considering key factors such as stock versus asset sales, external buyers (private equity, mergers, etc.) versus internal (family, employees, etc.), and the implications of capital gains, ordinary income, potential recapture, and estate taxes. Our comprehensive tax strategy ensures that you maximize your financial outcomes and while minimizing potential risk to your wealth.
Implement & Monitor
Our rigorous process takes a deep dive into your company’s current operations, financials, marketing and more. We work directly with your executive team to provide knowledgeable industry insight, goal implementation and ongoing monitoring throughout the life of your business.
Advocate & Partner
Aside from bringing clarity to your exit planning strategy, we act as your champion throughout the transition process by aligning the efforts of your team, consisting of a CPA, Value Acceleration Advisor, Valuation professional, business or contract attorney, estate planning attorney, trust company, and trust officer.
Long Term Planning
After the successful sale of your business, we assist you in making wise investments with the earnings, setting up a consistent monthly income for retirement, and reaching your individual retirement aspirations.
Standing By You Every Step of the Way.
Our clients know they can count on us in all of our three primary business practices. Beside partnering with allied professionals in their respective fields, we maintain industry respected sources of continuing education and knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a business owner start exit planning?
Ideally, three to five years before an intended exit — though even a 12-month runway is far better than none. Early planning allows time to increase the business’s value, address tax exposure, and align the exit with personal financial goals, rather than making rushed decisions under time pressure.
What's the difference between succession planning and exit planning?
Succession planning specifically addresses who will lead or own the business next (often a family member or internal team). Exit planning is the broader process — it includes succession as one possible path, alongside options like a sale to a third party, an ESOP, or a merger, all evaluated against the owner’s personal and financial goals.
How is my business valued for exit planning purposes?
What is a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), and why does it matter?
A CEPA has completed specialized training in helping business owners align their personal, financial, and business goals ahead of a transition. Because exit planning touches tax law, business valuation, personal financial planning, and often family dynamics, working with someone trained specifically in this intersection can help avoid gaps that a single specialist might miss.
What are common exit strategies for small and mid-sized business owners?
Options include a sale to a third party (strategic or financial buyer), a sale to management or employees (including an ESOP), a family succession, or in some cases a merger. The right strategy depends on your timeline, financial needs, and what you want for the business and its people after you leave.