The "Market-Ready" Blueprint Why the first 90 days of 2026 determine your exit success

If you’re planning to sell your business this year, the work doesn't start when you list; it starts now. In the current Maine market, we are seeing a "valuation gap" between businesses that are simply profitable and those that are transferable. A buyer isn't just buying your cash flow—they are buying the ease with which they can step into your shoes.

The 3 Pillars of a High-Value Exit:

• Recasting for Maximum SDE: Most business owners aim to reduce their tax burden by maximizing expenses. However, when it’s time to sell, we must "add back" those discretionary costs—owner salary, health insurance, one-time repairs, and non-essential perks. If these aren't documented clearly in your 2025 year-end financials, you are essentially leaving money on the table.

• The "Owner-Independent" Audit: Ask yourself: If I left for a month today, would the business grow, stall, or collapse? Buyers in 2026 are wary of "Owner-Centric" businesses. To command a premium, start documenting your Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and empowering your middle management now.

• Cleaning Up the Balance Sheet: Unused equipment, old inventory, and unresolved shareholder loans are "red flags" during due diligence. A clean balance sheet signals to a buyer’s lender that the business is professional and low-risk.

Seller Strategy Call: Don't wait until you're burnt out to plan your exit. Our team provides a comprehensive Valuation Analysis to show you exactly how the market sees your business today—and how to bridge the gap to the price you want.

Call us today at (207) 446-3509