The Exit Dream Team: Who You Really Need (And When to Bring Them In)

Welcome back to another edition of The Wise Exit!

In today's issue, we're covering:

1. The Exit Dream Team: Who You Really Need (And When to Bring Them In)

2. Essential Documents for Selling Your Business

3. What Buyers Really Pay For

Let's dive in!

The Exit Dream Team: Who You Really Need (And When to Bring Them In)

Let's be honest — exits are complex. And while you might be tempted to keep your circle small, having the right experts at the right time can mean the difference between a good exit and a great one.

Here's who you need on your team and when you need them:

Start with the Foundation

These are your core advisors, and you want them early — ideally 12-18 months before you're ready to sell:

• M&A Advisor: Think of them as your quarterback, coordinating everyone else.

• Exit Planner: Because how you structure the deal matters as much as the price.

• Valuation Expert: They'll tell you what your business is really worth (and how to improve it).

Get these relationships right, and everything else falls into place.

Add the Deal Makers

When you're ready to go to market, these specialists become critical:

• Investment Banker: They'll create the competitive tension that drives up your price.

• Transaction Attorney: Not your regular business lawyer — you need M&A expertise here.

• Due Diligence Team: Because surprises in due diligence can kill deals.

Timing matters here. Bring them in too early, and you'll waste money. Too late, and you'll rush critical decisions.

Don't Forget the Long Game

These advisors help ensure your exit success lasts:

• Financial Advisor: To help you manage your windfall wisely.

• Personal Board of Advisors: To keep you focused on what matters.

• Insurance Expert: Because buyer protection demands get complicated.

Remember, a great exit team might seem expensive up front, but they'll pay for themselves many times over. The real expense? Trying to save money by doing it alone.

Need help assembling your Dream Team? Get in touch with me.

Featured Blog 📰

Are you wondering what documents you'll need for your exit?

Our comprehensive guide explains everything required for a smooth sale process.

We cover:

• Due diligence checklists

• Operational documentation needs

• Essential legal documents and agreements

(And many more)

Read "List of Documents Needed to Sell a Business – Ultimate Guide" on our blog.

M&A Tips from Brian Dukes 💡

This is what buyers REALLY pay for... (Hint: it's not your 'vision.')

Many founders think:

"My business is worth 8x revenue" (or whatever multiple they heard might apply)

Why? Because future growth is so clear to them.

The problem?

Read the full post on LinkedIn.

Remember, building your dream team is an investment, not an expense. Invest now, and you'll reap the rewards later on.

Best,

Brian Dukes