M&A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Get answers to Frequently Asked Questions when selling a business from the Walden team
Sell-Side Questions
How long will it take to sell my business?
How long will it take to sell my business?
Every transaction is unique and dependent on the buyer’s efficiency, market conditions, and other factors.
In most cases, the process can take anywhere from six months to two years. With Walden’s proven methods, the process is streamlined to eliminate inefficiencies wherever possible.
How do you protect my company’s information?
How do you protect my company’s information?
Information is a confidential commodity at Walden, and we take pride in our ability to supply necessary details without compromising the client’s business.
Securing nondisclosure statements from buying entities and thoroughly vetting them minimizes the exposure of sensitive information, ensuring confidentiality at all times.
What do buyers typically want to know about the business?
What do buyers typically want to know about the business?
There will be quite a bit of information exchanged throughout the sale process, but buyers expect sellers to be able to answer these six questions before proceeding:
- Why are you selling?
- Will management remain after the sale?
- Are the financial statements accurate and current?
- Are there EPA, OSHA, or EEOC violations?
- Is owner financing available?
- What is the asking price?
What’s it like to sell my business?
What’s it like to sell my business?
Since most entrepreneurs will sell only one business in their lifetime, it’s important not to underestimate the emotional upheaval that this transaction can create. It’s also difficult for many owners to remain patient during the process and avoid second-guessing themselves.
Working with an experienced and responsive partner like Walden can reduce the stress of the process and ensure that you are ready to exit confidently when your transaction is complete.
What happens after the sale is finalized?
What happens after the sale is finalized?
Most buyers prefer that the seller stay on as a consultant or employee for anywhere from six months to two years to help with the transition. However, this amount of time can be negotiated.
You may prefer to spend less time on the job so that you can start having fun with your financial gains. But don’t be surprised if you find yourself antsy to start a new venture!
Buyer-Side Questions
What types of buyers does Walden work with?
What types of buyers does Walden work with?
Our buyers are:
- High-net-worth individuals
- Private equity firms
- Family offices
- Corporate offices
How does Walden approach acquisition transactions?
How does Walden approach acquisition transactions?
Waldens’ principals are selective and cautious about the engagements we undertake.
We choose to handle a smaller number of high-quality transactions, primarily with family- or founder-owned businesses, to ensure that our clients enjoy personal service from senior professionals who are aligned with and committed to client goals.
Further, we understand that M&A success is dependent upon successful implementation. Our engagements are process-driven, with verifiable milestones to maximize your expansion strategy.
Hear From Our Clients
Helped us find an ideal partner and led to a quick transaction process
“The Walden team of John and Sara has been the consummate partner in this process. Their industry knowledge and sage advice helped us find an ideal partner and led to a quick transaction process. We are excited indeed about our future.”
– PETER M.
Keeping everyone on track to closure
“We were lucky to have Sara Burden’s skill and commitment to guide us in preparing the company for sale; orchestrating meetings; and keeping everyone on track to closure.”
– RICK S..
Responsive, informative, and encouraging
“Responsive, informative, and encouraging – even when things seemed impossible. I highly recommend Dean and Sara for anyone thinking of selling their business. Working with Walden Businesses was definitely the right choice for Artisan Custom Closets.”
– LISA W.
Thoughtful and commercial in their approach
“The Walden team was thoughtful and commercial in their approach every step of the way. The communication between our collective teams was excellent and I believe helped their client meet their objectives. We look forward to working with the Walden team again.”
– MICHAEL L.
A true professional with a tireless approach
“One of the best business decisions I made was to hire Walden to represent my company when it was time to retire. A true professional with a tireless approach, Sara’s experience and wisdom of the market helped us receive the optimum value for our business.”
– Michael A.
Tireless in her professional approach
“Sara Burden of Walden Businesses was our broker and advisor. Her professional approach and attention to detail greatly contributed to a smooth transition. We valued our partnership and appreciated Sara being by our side during the entire process.”
– JOHN F.
“I cannot speak highly enough of Sara Burden and Walden Businesses. Sara acted as an advisor – not just a salesperson – and kept our company’s best interest in mind at all times during the process. She was also extremely patient with us and understood our needs as she guided us through prospective investors until she found what we considered to be “the perfect fit.” I highly recommend Sara and the team at Walden!”
Peter Mangal, President | Global Flags Unlimited, LLC
“Responsive, informative, and encouraging – even when things seemed impossible. I highly recommend Dean McDonald for anyone thinking of selling their business. Working with Walden Businesses was definitely the right choice for Artisan Custom Closets.”
Lisa Wisneski, Owner | Artisan Custom Closets
“The Walden team was thoughtful and commercial in their approach every step of the way. The communication between our collective teams was excellent and I believe helped their client meet their objectives. We look forward to working with the Walden team again.”
Michael Lonergan, Managing Partner | Georgia Oak Partners, LLC
“Sara Burden of Walden Businesses was our broker and advisor. Her professional approach and attention to detail greatly contributed to a smooth transition. We valued our partnership and appreciated Sara being by our side during the entire process.”
John Fitzgerald, President | AF&S Products and Services, Inc.
“Sara and the Walden team has been the consummate partner in this process. Their industry knowledge and sage advice helped us find an ideal partner and led to a quick transaction process. We are excited indeed about our future.”
John Chesnutt, Owner | A&R Ironworks, LLC
“Walden handled every step of the process with delicate care and a focus on mutual satisfaction under a tight timeline. We greatly appreciate the professionalism and helpful nature of the Walden team during a transaction so critical to our company’s growth goals.”
Greg Hodgen, President and CEO | Groendyke Transport
“Walden exemplifies commendable expertise and commitment to excellence. Guided by their strategic acumen and personalized approach, they were able to keep the process moving and ensured maximum value for all parties involved. I confidently recommend John Phillips and Sara Burden for their professional and successful handling of this transaction.”
Alex Dulmage, Operating Partner | SEARCH INVESTMENT GROUP, LLC
“We were lucky to have Sara Burden’s skill and commitment to guide us in preparing the company for sale; orchestrating meetings; and keeping everyone on track to closure.”
Deborah Latham, President | GEORGIA TANK LINES
“One of the best business decisions I made was to hire Walden Businesses to represent my company when it was time to retire. A true professional with a tireless approach, Sara’s experience and wisdom of the market helped us receive the optimum value for our business.”
Rodney Moore, Franchise Owner | EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS
“Walden Businesses were quick to consummate a purchase agreement. The Walden Team’s industry knowledge and advice helped us find an ideal buyer that led to a quick and smooth transaction process. Walden’s team are professional and detailed with explanations and guidance that were true success factors.”
Debbie Dickinson, CEO | CRANE INDUSTRY SERVICES, LLC
“I cannot speak highly enough of Sara Burden and Walden Businesses. Sara acted as an advisor – not just a salesperson – and kept our company’s best interest in mind at all times during the process. She was also extremely patient with us and understood our needs as she guided us through prospective investors until she found what we considered to be “the perfect fit.” I highly recommend Sara and the team at Walden!”
Rhonda Wylie, Chief Financial Officer | DIVISION 5, INC.
“Many thanks to Walden Businesses for the dedication in finding the best buyer fit for our Company. We appreciated the guidance throughout the sale process and are excited at the experience and professionalism of the new owners.”
John Copeland, Founder | ENERGY ASSURANCE, LLC
“I cannot say enough how much I appreciate the professionalism of Sara Burden and the fact that she took the time to allow us to meet with the Legacy team multiple times at their office during the unprecedented times we are in. Michael and his Legacy team have been nothing short of professional in making this a very smooth transaction.”
Dixit Suthar, Owner | LEGACY BUILDING SYSTEMS, INC.
“Sara Burden with Walden Businesses was extremely professional and a pleasure to work with. Her knowledge and expertise in mergers and acquisitions was instrumental in keeping us on track throughout the acquisition.”
Chad Perez, CEO | PINNACLE SECURITY
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