We can't cover every consideration that you may have, but hopefully we'll cover some important considerations that may help you in the planning process. No matter who you are, or what age, or what your agency's situation, you need to have an exit plan. You need an exit plan because things take time. Many owners think that when the time comes, they will simply tell the buyer they have in mind that he's the one, the lawyers will draw up the papers, and the money will start flowing in. But it's not that simple.
Clients typically think they can start and finish the process in a month or two.
Sometimes they can accomplish that, but often not. It's not that the lawyers are slow. It's that the devil is in the details. It can take as long as five years to sell an agency, as we'll see below. Most owners fall in love with a potential buyer.