Sell a business is not just about getting the maximum amount in the bank. The real question on many entrepreneurs' minds: is it enough? Enough to continue living carefree, realize your dreams and support your family financially?
At Bol Corporate Finance, we notice that in the run-up to a sale, entrepreneurs are mainly concerned with determining the value of their business. Logical, but that is only half the story. Knowing what you need after the sale is just as important - and prevents unrest in the negotiations.
Asset planning
An example. An entrepreneur is approaching the sale of his business. His goal: to be able to spend €120,000 net annually, to have room for incidental expenses (such as a vacation home in Italy), and to let his family benefit financially. Bol's corporate finance specialists estimate the expected sale proceeds: between €7 and €8 million. A nice outcome, but the entrepreneur wonders if that will be enough for his plans.
Together with the Family Desk an estate planning is drawn up. This maps out future expenses, tax obligations, wishes and goals. The outcome? His plans require €5 million in net assets.
This information changes everything. With this insight, the entrepreneur knows that he is firm in the negotiation: the difference between €7 or €8 million is relevant, but not critical. Peace of mind is created, and room to manage other issues such as timing, conditions or family wishes.
Sales strategy
If the assets turn out to be more than necessary, it opens the door to other questions: How can you transfer assets to children or other family members? How do you arrange this properly legally and fiscally? How do you secure the right agreements within the family, for example via a family statute or adapted will? And how do you make sure that the assets also return in the long term, with reliable asset managers?
So a good sales strategy is not complete without understanding your personal financial goals. A realistic calculation of 'enough' prevents unnecessary stress and provides opportunities to get more out of the sale - not necessarily in euros, but in peace of mind, freedom and future-proofing.
Next phase
Our tip: start combining business and personal capital insights in good time. At Bol, the experts from Corporate Finance and the Family Desk work closely together to guide entrepreneurs in this process. This way, you not only know what your business is worth, but also what you and your family need to enter the next phase with confidence.
Do you already know what is enough - for you and your family?
