To Sell or Not to Sell? Removing the Confusion from the Question

I know someone whose business has been for sale many times over the length of our relationship.  In fact, he could actually have sold it on at least six occasions that I know about; and each would have given him a “never have to work again” lifestyle.  But, for reasons best known only to my friend Sam, he routinely leaves a willing buyer scratching his head in bewilderment.  He has another offer on the table.  It’s a very good one by most people’s standards, especially considering the nature of his industry.  Good as it is, the smart money is betting against the sale.   Maybe some of you have been in a similar situation, either as a business owner or as a business advisor to someone like Sam.  Just after he told me about his most recent offer, he began expressing disappointment that the business was valued properly and that the negotiations were being handled by a bunch of young MBAs who had no appreciation wheeling and dealing.  “All they see,” said Sam, “is their worksheet.  They don’t know what to do without it.” To read the end of this blog, click here.