How to Sell a Business in the UK

The best time to sell is when the business is growing and you are not forced to. Buyers pay a premium for momentum. Selling under pressure, or after profits dip, typically costs 20 to 40% of headline value.

Plan two to three years ahead where possible. That window gives you time to professionalise the business, reduce owner dependency and clean up the numbers.

• Three years of clean, filed accounts with consistent add-backs
• Documented processes so the business is not dependent on you
• A capable second-in-command who will stay through transition
• Contracted recurring revenue wherever possible
• Lease secured for at least the next 3 to 5 years
• Up-to-date contracts for staff, suppliers and key customers

Self-listing

Best for owners who understand the process, have the time, and want to keep the broker fee. Marketplaces like Dealdoor give you direct access to thousands of vetted buyers without intermediation.

Working with a broker

A sector-specialist broker manages buyer outreach, qualification and negotiation. Most charge a success fee of 5 to 10%, so they only get paid if you sell. Worth it for complex deals, larger businesses, or owners who want full confidentiality.

Staff, customers and competitors finding out you are selling can hurt the business mid-process. Use blind listings (no business name, generic location), require NDAs before sharing financials, and stage the level of disclosure carefully.

1. Preparation and valuation: 2 to 4 weeks
2. Marketing and buyer enquiries: 6 to 12 weeks
3. Offers and heads of terms: 2 to 4 weeks
4. Due diligence: 6 to 12 weeks
5. Legal completion: 2 to 6 weeks

Total: 4 to 9 months from listing to completion. Faster deals happen, but expect this range.