3 Steps to Take Before Starting the Business Merger or Acquisition Process in Washington State

As a business owner, you have a lot to think about. Whether you have been operating your business for less than a year or for several decades, you may be considering a merger or acquisition. One of the most significant decisions a business owner will make is when—or whether—to sell the business. If you are thinking about moving forward with a merger or acquisition transaction, it’s essential to understand every angle of the process to ensure you can make decisions with clarity and confidence. Enlist the guidance of a skilled and experienced Vancouver business lawyer to help you navigate this process, and consider taking the following steps before you take action.

1. Consider External Variables and Timing

Mergers and acquisitions do not take place in a vacuum; instead, several market variables affect when a deal can happen. Take some time to explore the growth in your sector as well as the general GDP growth to determine whether your business, products, or services are in demand in the current market. You will want to make sure your company appears as strong and valuable as possible to potential buyers, so it may be best to wait a bit longer for your sector to heat up before you move forward with a merger or acquisition.

2. Create a Robust Financial Model

Companies that take the time to understand and document their financial health tend to move through the merger or acquisition with greater ease. It’s important to recognize that financial information is much more than revenue, margin, and growth—you should also build detailed two or three-year financial projection models that take several variables into account. Not only will potential buyers appreciate this thorough approach, but you will enter into negotiations with a fuller and more comprehensive understanding of your company’s financial value and worth.

3. Find a Skilled Business Law Attorney to Support You

Whether you are just starting to consider a merger or acquisition or you are on the cusp of moving forward with one of these actions, involving a seasoned business lawyer is the best way to ensure you are making informed and empowered decisions. Pursuing a merger or acquisition is one of the most meaningful actions a business owner can take, so work with your lawyer to identify the most favorable path forward. Your attorney will answer your questions, address your concerns, and support you at every turn of the process, working hard to protect your best interests at all times.

Contact John L. Davis, PLLC, today at (360) 597-4740 to speak with an experienced and trusted Vancouver business law attorney.