It is possible to sell a business as self-employed person.

Wietze Willem Mulder
Wietze Willem Mulder, Brookz
February 23, 2023
As a ZZP'er you are the hub of your own business. Your knowledge and skills are yours, so that's why many ZZP'ers don't even think about a possible sale.
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As a ZZP'er you are the hub of your own business. Your knowledge and skills are yours, so that's why many ZZP'ers don't even think about a possible sale.

Yet this fear is unfounded, because sell a business is possible.

Added value of a self-employed business

As we just mentioned: the expertise is mainly in your head and a potential buyer can't do anything with it. What is successfully transferable are resources and a nice customer base.

That is why it is so important not to consider your business as your baby, because then emotions take over. Always make sure, preferably digitally, that you have a good insight into where the value of your business lies.

For potential buyers, it is attractive to jump on a moving train. If you are just starting out, then the costs increase unnoticed. This is precisely why it can pay off to take over a customer base and a well-functioning business, especially if it is small-scale.

As the selling ZZP'er, it is wise to work on a sales memorandum in good time, which includes the assets. These include tangible assets, such as stock and inventory, but intangible assets, such as reputation and know-how are also very important.

Sole proprietorship or limited company

ZZP'ers often start their business out of a passion for their profession, the most common business form being the sole proprietorship. The sale of a sole proprietorship does not involve a notary, but it is wise to establish the legal and financial frameworks properly. Preferably consult an accountant and a lawyer, so that no surprises emerge for either party.

In the case of a private limited company, a visit to the notary is required. An official share transfer must take place. Once the sale is complete, both parties must notify the Chamber of Commerce and the Tax Office so that the registration and relevant returns can be set in motion.

 

Written by
Wietze Willem Mulder, Brookz

Wietze Willem Mulder is Manager of Content at Brookz. He studied journalism and has written for business titles such as FEM Business, Sprout, De Ondernemer and Management Team. He is also co-author of the handbooks How to buy a business and How to sell a business.

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