M&A Advisory
A qualified M&A Advisor (for both sales and/or acquisitions) helps a small business owner get a better price, obtain more favorable terms, and move a deal forward with a much higher likelihood of closing the transaction – all while the owner stays focused on running the company.
Over the past 20 years, Timberline Business Advisors and TJ Kern have successfully completed 28 M&A transactions involving Private Equity firms that acquired lower middle market companies across a variety of industries. The aggregate enterprise value of these transactions totaled $615 Million (see the scrolling deal marquis below).
This deal expertise has equipped Timberline Business Advisors to skillfully guide business owners through the 9-phase sale process:
Without the guidance and support of an M&A Advisor, most business owners are negotiating deals at a disadvantage against buyers who do M&A transactions for a living.
Engagement, Strategy, & Readiness
Company Packaging & Positioning
Buyer Research, Outreach & NDAs
Q&A, 1st Round Bids (IOIs) & Short-List of Buyers
Month 1:
Months 2-3:
Month 4:
Months 5-6:
Month 7:
LOIs, Selection of Buyer & Exclusivity
Management Meetings & Pre-LOI Diligence
Month 8:
Months 9-10:
Confirmatory Diligence & Purchase Agreement
Months 11-12:
Regulatory, Financing & Closing Logistics
Months 13+:
Post-Close Transition & Platform Build-Out
FAQs
Do I really need an M&A advisor?
A seasoned advisor helps you avoid costly mistakes, run a competitive process, and stay focused on running the business while the deal moves forward.
What does the sale process look like?
The process has many steps that can take up to 18 months. Your advisor will manage the timeline and each step so you can focus on your business.
How do I find serious, qualified buyers?
An advisory will quietly market your business, leverage their network, and pre-screen potential buyers before they reach you.
How do I negotiate price and terms?
Your advisor will lead the negotiation on price, earn-out, seller financing, and other key monetary terms.
How will confidentiality be protected?
An advisor will protect confidentiality using blind summary NDAs, and staged-information releases so only vetted buyers see sensitive details.
How will this affect my taxes and net proceeds?
You will work with your tax and wealth advisor to shape your deal structure and timing to improve your net deal proceeds.