Ready, Set, Sell.

Thinking of selling your real estate brokerage? Here’s what you need to know.

Life happens. Events may change your goals or motivate you to sell your business. Having a succession plan or exit strategy in place before this happens allows you to explore the options and timing that work best for you. Seems daunting? Don’t worry. RE/MAX^® is here to help.

Take charge of change.

Here are 7 manageable steps you can take to help sell your brokerage.

1. Evaluate, Organize and Enhance.

Here are the first steps to selling.

• • Complete a professional business evaluation to review your financial statements, assets and market position to find out your brokerage’s value.
  • Ensure you can provide organized, up-to-date, accurate financial records for scrutinizing buyers.
  • Address operational inefficiencies to make your business more effective and attractive to buyers.
  • Enhance curb appeal (in person and online) by providing a professional updated office and website.

2. Get Professional Help (It’s a Good Thing).

Consider consulting with:

• • A franchise professional who specializes in real estate to help market your business, find qualified buyers and handle negotiations.
  • A lawyer experienced in business sales who takes care of contract negotiations, due diligence and other legalities.
  • An accountant to manage financial aspects of the sale and address any tax implications.

3. Show Your Strengths.

Put your best foot forward when marketing your business.

• • Outline your business’s history, strengths, financials and potential for growth in a detailed prospectus you can share.
  • Ask your franchise specialist to confidentially market your brokerage to potential buyers to avoid alerting staff and clients.

4. Pass the Torch Without Getting Burned.

Screen and qualify potential buyers.

• • Ensure buyers have the necessary funds and experience to buy and manage a real estate brokerage.
  • Have interested buyers sign a non-disclosure agreement to protect sensitive information.

5. Start Negotiations.

Once a buyer is vetted here’s what you need to do.

• • Discuss and negotiate the terms of the sale including price, payment structure and transition period.
  • Provide necessary documentation and information to buyers and allow them to conduct their own due diligence.

6. Crossing the Finish Line to Sold.

Almost there! Be sure to take care of these details before finalizing the sale.

• • Review contracts with your legal counsel to finalize the sale agreement and address all legalities.
  • Develop a transition plan for new ownership including training and introductions to key clients and staff.

7. Before You Go.

A couple more things to do before you can enjoy that post-sale glow.

• • Consult with your accountant about the tax implications of the sale and settle all financial matters.
  • Share the news and plans to ease the transition with staff, agents and clients.

Your New Start Awaits

Congratulations, your next stage of life and business is sure to be exciting. If the sale of your brokerage aligns with your future planning and goals, then follow the steps above to help you make the transition.

Need more help? RE/MAX is the #1 name in real estate in the U.S.¹ with more than 50 years of experience. Our dedicated M&A team is ready to help you explore and develop a solid succession strategy.

Ready to put a plan in place? Reach out today to start a confidential conversation. Planning for your future puts you in charge of change.