Exitwise
Tips, Tools & Best Practices Blog

The Exitwise Blog

We are focused on providing our fellow founders, business owners, and CEOs with the best educational resources to prepare you for any sell-side M&A transaction. Please contact us if you would like to discuss a specific topic directly. We're always happy to help.

Two men in business attire shaking hands over a desk with documents.

How to Sell a Business Without a Broker: 7-Step Guide

Learn how to sell your business successfully without a broker. Discover key strategies to maximize profit, avoid broker fees, and take control of the sale process.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Person working on a laptop with bar graphs on the screen, using a phone and a mouse.

How to Value a Small Business (Step-by-Step Process)

Understand the essentials of small business valuation and establish a clear concept of calculating your company’s worth.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Professionals having a discussion at a table with calculator, documents, laptop, and tablet visible.

How to Value an Asset Management Company - Complete Breakdown

Learn how to value an asset management company with industry-specific techniques focusing on predictable growth and profitability.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Team of professionals working together around a table with documents and laptops.

Top Business Valuation Companies (Ranked & Reviewed)

Discover top business valuation companies offering services from market analysis to tax compliance. Get expert advice to maximize your firm's value.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two individuals studying with papers, books, and a calculator on a wooden table.

Is a LOI Binding? Short Answer & Detailed Explanation

Is LOI Binding? Learn how the wording and specific legal provisions determine if your letter of intent holds up in court.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of professional man on laptop during a team discussion in a bright office.

Selling a Small Business - 7-Step Guide for Owners

Learn the essential steps for a successful small business exit. Valuation, financial cleanup, and strategic timing—all you need to get the best possible deal.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Professionals discussing charts on a tablet, with papers and a notebook on the table.

Understanding RIA Valuation - Factors, Multiples & More

Learn key factors, methods, and valuation multiples for RIA firms in this comprehensive guide ideal for buyers, sellers, and industry professionals.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Office meeting with attendees using laptops around a conference table.
Tips

How to Sell a Business for Top Dollar - Maximize Your Exit

The idea of selling a business can be overwhelming and a bit scary. Understanding the necessary steps early in the M&A process can help you be prepared.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
Corporate meeting with two men, one gesturing at a MacBook screen on a white table.

M&A Process Decoded: Sell Side, Buy Side, Stages, and Timelines

Navigate every step of the M&A process with our comprehensive guide. Learn the ins and outs of mergers and acquisitions effectively.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two professionals reviewing a document on a tablet at a desk with business charts.

M&A Valuation Decoded - Multiples, Factors, Methods, and More

Find out what it takes to value an M&A deal. Learn the factors and methodologies to value any business in mergers and acquisitions accurately.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Person at a desk with papers showing graphs, a phone and a coffee cup.

What is a Merger Model - Example, Components, and More

Discover how a merger model measures accretion or dilution to earnings per share (EPS) and impacts M&A transactions. Learn the essentials here.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Three individuals at a meeting table with documents and a monitor in a modern office.

4 Different Types of Acquisitions With Examples - Choose Wisely

Explore the different types of acquisitions. Vertical, horizontal, conglomerate, and market. Understand their impact on business strategies and growth.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Person working at a cluttered desk with a laptop, notebooks, and mobile devices.

M&A Accounting Best Practices - Accounting Method, Mechanics, and More

Discover M&A accounting best practices, including essential accounting methods and mechanics. Learn how to streamline your M&A processes effectively.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
People analyzing graphs on a laptop with financial documents scattered on a table.

Top M&A Software and Platforms - Analyzed and Ranked by Experts

Compare top M&A software providers. From diligence to integration, get insights on features and pricing to guide your selection.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
An individual writing in a notebook with laptop on the table.

Rule of Thumb Business Valuation - The Complete Guide

Understand the rule of thumb for business valuation and how to apply industry multiples to assess your business's economic value.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of two people shaking hands, sealing a business deal.

All About Rollover Equity - Benefits, Challenges, and Best Practices

Discover how rollover equity allows sellers to reinvest proceeds into the buyer’s company, optimizing valuation and financial health in mergers and acquisitions.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of a hand signing a document.

Exit Multiples: Types, Calculation, and Limitations Explained

Learn how exit multiples value businesses, compare industry standards, and guide strategic decisions. Get insights into calculation methods and common pitfalls.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Businessman in a blue suit focused on paperwork at his desk.

M&A NDA: Benefits, Types, and Negotiation Strategies Explained

Discover the key components of a well-drafted M&A NDA to protect your confidential info in M&A transactions, securing your competitive advantage.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Business partners in casual attire focus on a digital tablet in a workspace with warm lighting.

How to Draft an M&A Term Sheet (Benefits Included)

Discover the essentials of an M&A term sheet, a preliminary document outlining key terms of the proposed deal. Learn what makes this non-binding agreement crucial.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
An individual signing a document with laptop on the table.

IOI in M&A: What Is It, How It Works, and Benefits Explained

Considering an indication of interest (IOI) for your M&A strategy? Explore its significance and key components as a tool to initiate and evaluate transactions.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of a hand holding a pen while writing in a planner.

What is a Merger Agreement and How Does it Work?

Find out what to look for in a merger agreement to make informed decisions. Explore key elements and insightful tips for a successful merger evaluation.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Businessperson typing on a laptop, classic wristwatch visible, in an office setting.

LOI to Purchase a Business (How to Write + Key Components)

Learn how to write a letter of intent (LOI) to purchase a business. Explore key steps and considerations to initiate a successful acquisition process.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of two people reviewing and pointing at documents.

14-Step Asset Purchase Agreement Checklist (Must-Have)

Ensure a successful asset acquisition with our detailed asset purchase agreement checklist, covering all critical steps from agreements to finalization.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Businessman signing a document while a woman looks on during a meeting.

Confidential Information Memorandum (CIM) - Ultimate Guide

Discover how a Confidential Information Memorandum (CIM) shapes mergers, acquisitions, and investments with its key components and strategic insights.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Man counting money at his desk with financial documents and a laptop.

Business Broker Fees [Explained] - What You Need to Know

Wondering how business broker fees work? Our guide breaks down fee structures and strategies for informed decisions when selling your business.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Professionals analyzing a bar chart on a laptop during a business meeting.

Sellability Score: Your Business Valuation Guide

Uncover expert strategies and actionable tips to boost your business's sellability score. Maximize value and attract investors with our comprehensive approach.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two business professionals discussing a financial chart on a laptop.

8 Major M&A Risks (and How to Mitigate Them)

Discover top M&A risks, from overpaying to cultural fits. Enhance your mergers and acquisitions strategy by recognizing and mitigating these risks.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two women in a serious discussion over documents.

What’s an Earn Out? How It Works, Benefits, & Strategies

Discover how an earn out provides flexible pricing in mergers and acquisitions, ensuring sellers earn based on business performance and goals.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Best M&A Podcasts 2023.
Tips

Top 10 M&A Podcasts You Must Listen

Our favorite M&A podcasts, covering a range of topics such as M&A strategy, valuation, financing, due diligence, and integration.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Business professionals discussing data displayed on a laptop screen.

M&A Fees - What Is It, Benefits, and Strategies Included

Discover valuable insights into the impact of M&A fees on deal success and failure, and learn best practices for fee management and negotiation.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two colleagues discussing work while holding notebooks and using laptops.

Sell Side M&A Process How It Works, Strategies, and FAQs

Master the sell side M&A process with our guide on how investment banks broker deals, plan auctions, and ensure successful sales from start to finish.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Laptop displaying charts and graphs next to a tablet showing a calendar.

Merger and Acquisition Success Rate - Ultimate Guide

Discover the factors influencing merger and acquisition success rates; learn to achieve success and avoid the 70-90% failure rate.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Three businesswomen discussing reports and data at a table.

A Step-By-Step Guide to Qualifying a Buyer

Discover effective strategies for qualifying a buyer. This guide will help you determine if your products or services meet their specific needs.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Professional writing notes with a laptop and plant on the desk.

75+ Questions to Ask When Selling a Business

Ready to sell your business? Learn the fundamental questions to ask to make informed decisions and achieve the best outcome.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Overhead view of a team sitting on floor with colorful graphs and charts for analysis.

Ultimate Guide to Exit Valuation [All Questions Answered]

Unlock the secrets to exit valuation. Find out what determines your business's worth and ensure you secure the best deal possible.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Businessman calculating finances with a calculator at a cluttered office desk.

How Much Can I Sell My Business For? - FAQs Answered

Discover how to calculate the sale price of a business using different methods. Get the best way of valuing your business for sale using our guide.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Business team working at laptops in modern office.

Selling Your Family Business? Process + FAQs Explained

Selling your family business? Discover when and how to sell successfully with our comprehensive guide on timing, transparency, and strategic decision-making.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of a firm handshake between two professionals in an office.

How To Find a Buyer For Your Business [Step By Step Guide]

Read our guide on finding a buyer for your business. Test the market, get feedback, and refine your approach for maximum buyer interest and profitability.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Inside a bookstore, a woman reads at the counter, with bookshelves full of vibrant book covers.

How to Value a Retail Business for Sale [Ultimate Guide]

Learn how to value a retail business accurately. Calculate earnings, assess inventory, and understand key valuation metrics to determine its worth.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Team collaboratively working with laptops and notebooks on a wooden table.

12 Steps to Sell an Insurance Agency [Valuation Methods Included]

Maximize your ROI when you sell your insurance agency. Learn key strategies to value your agency and attract the best buyers.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Analysts discussing data charts at a corporate meeting.

Stock Sale vs. Asset Sale - [Comprehensive Comparison]

Ready to sell your business? Understanding a stock sale and asset sale is crucial. Discover the key differences in this guide and what it means for your bottom line.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two people signing a document at a wooden desk.

How Much is a Home Health Agency Worth? [Detailed Analysis]

Discover how much a home health agency is worth with our comprehensive guide. Unlock the secrets to valuation and maximize your investment today!

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Team of business people in strategic planning session in a corporate office.

Insurance Agency Valuation Rule of Thumb [Complete Guide]

Dive into the intricacies of the insurance agency valuation rule of thumb and learn how to evaluate your agency's worth accurately and efficiently.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two businesswomen discussing charts on a whiteboard in a meeting.

Reverse Due Diligence in M&A Transactions - [Ultimate Guide]

Going for an M&A transaction? Explore the essentials of reverse due diligence in this comprehensive guide and how it can protect your business goals.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Colleagues in a meeting with graphs and charts spread on the table.

Strategic Buyer vs. Financial Buyer - How Are They Different

Explore the differences between strategic and financial buyers in this comprehensive guide to enhance your investment.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Man presenting financial growth chart to colleagues in a meeting.

Organic Growth vs. Acquisition - Which One is Best for Your Business?

Is your company better suited for organic growth or acquisition? Read our comprehensive guide to make an informed decision.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Modern architectural design of a curving office building.

[10 Steps] How to Value a Property Management Company

Learn how to value a property management company with expert insights and industry tips. Make informed decisions for your investment today.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Monochrome image of semi-trucks parked at a truck stop with cloudy skies.

How to Sell a Trucking Company - Prepare, Value, and More

Discover how to sell your trucking company with ease! Our guide offers practical steps and insider tips to maximize your sale price. Click to learn more.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Overhead view of three professionals working on architectural blueprints.

What’s The Typical Multiplier For Engineering Firms? (and How to Value)

Discover the key to profitability with a typical multiplier for engineering firms. Unlock industry insights and drive growth using this comprehensive guide.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two construction workers in hard hats discussing over a building site.

[9 Steps] How Do I Sell My Construction Business?

Looking to sell your construction business? Discover top strategies and expert tips to maximize your sale value effortlessly.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Detailed project planning with charts and books.

[10 Steps] How Do I Sell My E-commerce Business? Steps and Valuation Explained

Looking to sell your E-commerce business? Uncover the best strategies for a profitable sale and improve your financial future.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of hands working on financial calculations with calculator and pen.

[Quick Answer] - Should I Use a Broker To Sell My Business?

Should you use a broker to sell your business? Get insights into the pros and cons in our comprehensive guide.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Overhead view of two people working on laptops with coding software on screens.

[5 Steps] - How to Sell Shopify Store for Maximum Value

Ready to sell your Shopify store? Learn how to easily navigate the selling process and secure the best deal for your online business.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Team analyzing business data with colorful charts and graphs on paper.

Consulting Company Valuation Guide - How Much Is Your Firm Worth?

Master consulting company valuation with ease! This guide offers actionable tips for achieving the maximum valuation for your business.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
A veterinarian wearing a mask and stethoscope examining a tan dog with the assistance of a volunteer also in a mask.

[5 Steps] - How Do I Sell My Veterinary Practice?

Discover how to sell a veterinary practice in this guide! Get expert tips on maximizing sale value and navigating the sales process efficiently.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Woman presenting graphs at a business meeting.

How Do You Avoid Paying Taxes When Selling a Business? [Overview]

Discover effective strategies to avoid paying taxes when selling a business and maximize your profits.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Experienced businesswoman assists young colleagues with digital tasks.

(Step-by-Step) How Do I Sell My IFA Business?

Ready to capitalize on your financial advisory business? Discover how to sell your IFA business efficiently. Get insights into valuations, risk mitigation, and more.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two professionals discussing over a MacBook at a white meeting table with a glass of water.

The Only M&A Closing Checklist You Need (Pre-Closing, Post-Closing, and More)

Streamline your M&A from start to finish with our M&A closing checklist. Read it now and unlock the secrets to a smooth and efficient closing process.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Senior executive presenting a pie chart to team members in a meeting.

409a Valuation Ultimate Guide - What it is, FAQs, and More

Master your understanding of 409A valuations with our ultimate guide. Get clear answers on what a 409A valuation is, FAQs, comparisons, and more!

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of a business handshake in office.

[5 Steps] How to Sell Your SaaS Business and Maximize its Value

Ready to sell your SaaS business? Discover expert tips and proven strategies to maximize profits on your sales.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Man in business attire assessing papers with digital devices nearby.

Should I Sell My Business? 14 Signs That Say Yes

Should I sell my business? Good question - Discover the key indicators that suggest it's time to sell.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Concentrated man with glasses scrutinizing financial papers in office.

Exit Planning Explained - Process, Strategy, and More

Exit planning can make or break your business's legacy. Discover the best strategies and insider tips to ensure a successful transition.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
A person is writing on a piece of paper while using a calculator.

Here's How Goodwill is Taxed When Selling a Business (EXPLAINED)

Selling your business? Understand exactly how goodwill is taxed with our comprehensive guide. Ensure you're equipped for the M&A process with our expert insights.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
People walking through a warehouse with pallets on the shelves.

(10 Steps) How to Value a Distribution Business - Full Guide

Ready to learn how to value a distribution business? Get top-notch tips and industry methods to evaluate yours effectively.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Team members discussing data charts during a strategy meeting.

[Quick Answer] How Long Does it Take to Sell a Business?

How long does it take to sell a business? Get a quick answer and expert insights to help you plan for a successful sale with time-efficient strategies.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Professionals with laptops and tablets having a casual meeting on armchairs.

Master The M&A Pipeline - 8 Stages Explained (and more)

Optimize your M&A pipeline strategy with our insightful tips! Learn how to navigate mergers and acquisitions like a pro and stay ahead of the competition.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two colleagues high-fiving over a marketing strategy table.

The 11 Steps of Selling a Staffing Agency - Complete Overview

Thinking of selling a staffing agency? Learn the secrets to a successful sale! Exclusive advice to help you get the best deal.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Corporate meeting in session with professionals around a table in a bright room.

[ANSWERED] Here's What Happens to Cash When Selling a Business

Ever wondered what happens to cash when selling a business? We've got the answers! Learn the key steps to protect your assets.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Two workers standing in an industrial warehouse.

Selling a Manufacturing Business? Don’t Ignore This Guide

Looking to maximize profit from selling a manufacturing business? Our expert tips ensure you understand the process from start to finish.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
The sun is setting over a city skyline with skyscrapers in the background.

How to Sell Commercial Real Estate - Complete Guide

Thanks to our comprehensive guide, learn how to sell commercial real estate and maximize profits. We cover insights and best practices you won’t want to miss.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Close-up of a businesswoman examining a paper report with her mobile phone in hand.

How to Value an E-commerce Business in 14 Steps (Complete Guide)

Understand how to value an E-commerce business by analyzing web analytics, market influence, and scalability - everything and more in our guide.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
Veterinarian administering an injection to a calm brown Persian cat.

Veterinary Practice Valuation - Key Factors and Methods

This guide gives you key veterinary practice valuation insights and includes methodologies, market trends & best practices to know the worth of your business.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
An image of a justice scale on a table.

How to Value a Law Firm in 10 Steps (and FAQs)

Discover how to value a law firm and understand the financial performance, client base, and valuation multiples in the legal market.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
A dental office with a person sitting at a desk.

Expert Guide to Dental Practice Valuations (Overview + Tips)

Want to understand the nuances of dental practice valuations? We will take you through the complete process, including valuation methods, best practices, and more.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
A person in a lab coat is holding up a piece of glass.

Biotech Valuation Methods (Explained)

Looking for the right approach to biotech valuation? This guide helps you determine your company's worth, covering several methodologies and nuances in detail.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
Three people sitting at a table in a car showroom.

How Much is a Car Dealership Worth? Valuation Strategies Simplified

Curious about how much a car dealership is worth? Explore our guide for insights into car dealership valuation factors, strategies, and more!

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
A person touching a woman's neck.

Selling a Chiropractic Practice - Key Insights & Info

Get valuable tips and practical advice on selling a chiropractic practice. This guide covers everything from key factors to examples to valuation methods.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
A person in a business suit sitting at a desk with a tablet and pen.

Everything About M&A Financing: Process, Types, Roles, and More

M&A Financing is used by companies to fund their mergers and acquisitions as they often involve considerable amounts of capital. Here's how it works.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Three business people shaking hands in an office.

6 Types of Mergers - Definitions, Examples, and Insights

Explore the six essential types of mergers in business. Learn with real-world examples and valuable insights to guide your strategic decisions.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
A person sitting at a desk with a calculator and pen.

How Many Times EBITDA is a Business Worth? (Quick Answer)

Want to learn how many times EBITDA a business is worth? Well, it depends on your company's industry. Here's how you can calculate it quickly.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
A person writing on a piece of paper with a pen.

Selling a Business Checklist - Complete To-Do List

From due diligence and marketing strategies to negotiations and post-sale considerations, here's the essential checklist for selling your business.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Person holding a laptop in a conference room.

SaaS Valuation 101 - Here's How to Value a SaaS Company

SaaS valuation helps to understand the economic value of a SaaS company by charting its growth potential. Here's how it works and how you can evaluate it.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
A group of people sitting around a conference table.

Selling a Medical Practice - 6 Key Steps to Consider

Learn the essentials of selling a medical practice to navigate the sale process smoothly. From valuation to closing the deal, get the insights you need here.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
Two individuals in suits sitting at a table with papers.

Expert Guide: How to Sell Your Business to a Competitor

Discover the insider strategies for selling your business to a competitor with this expert guide. Here's how you can negotiate a smart, successful sale.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
Three people in suits and hard hats working on a building site.

How to Value a Construction Company (Correctly) - Ultimate Guide

Understanding how to value a construction company can be complex. You need tax returns, the right EBITDA multiplier, revenue, and much more. Here's how to do it.

Brian Dukes.
Brian Dukes
A group of business people shaking hands at a meeting.

Reverse Triangular Mergers - Your Complete Overview

Explore the dynamics of a reverse triangular merger in this detailed article. Understand how the deal is executed, its tax implications, and more.

Todd Sullivan.
Todd Sullivan
A person shaking hands at a desk.

172 M&A Terms to Master Any Merger or Acquisition

Master the language of mergers and acquisitions with this comprehensive list of 172 M&A terms. Learn the nuances and keep your knowledge up-to-date.