What does a business broker do?

The role of a business broker and investment banker

A strong and experienced business broker will guide you and provide sound advice through every step of the process to sell your business.

The broker will develop a realistic valuation for your company, identify and provide access to qualified buyers, prepare professional marketing materials to present your company to buyers, support and guide you through management presentation meetings with buyers, manage the negotiation process and obtain letters of intent, work seamlessly with your accountant and lawyers, help you through due diligence, and ensure you reach a successful closing.

Clients often ask us about the difference between an investment banker and a business broker. Broadly, investment bankers generally work with very large corporations to help explore a potential sale, while brokers generally focus on smaller, privately held companies. Whether you hire an investment banker or business broker as an intermediary, they should be available to act as a guide and partner as you navigate the process to sell your company.

Investment bankers will generally be licensed to sell securities, while most business brokers are not. At Hughes Klaiber we are one of the few business brokers in New York State that also hold the Series 79 Investment Banking and Series 63 securities licenses.

 

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Who might buy my company?

How much is my business worth?

How long does it take to sell a company?

When is the best time to sell a company?

When should I tell employees about a potential sale?

Will I need to stay on after the sale?

How is the economy impacting business sales?