On the 2nd of April 2019, the threshold for small business instant asset write-off increased from $25,000 to $30,000. Announced by the Government, this increase is available to all ‘small businesses’ with an aggregated annual turnover of less than $10 million.

What is instant asset write-off?

Businesses that meet the criteria of a ‘small business’ (if unsure, check your eligibility by clicking here) are able to write-off 100% of new or used business assets up to the value of $30,000 as long as those assets acquired are used in the same financial year. It is important to note that there is no limit to how many assets can be written-off, as long as each asset is less than $30,000 (excluding GST)

What does this mean for my business if I plan to sell?

If you are planning to sell your business, it is important to highlight the depreciation of these assets when calculating your adjusted net profit. The downside is that the written down values of these assets being sold with the business will be a great deal less than what you originally paid for them which means that a buyer will want to negotiate a lower price for these assets as the Buyer will not be able to depreciate these assets as the new owner.

What does this mean if I am looking to buy a business?

As a buyer, the written down value of the assets being sold with the business may allow you to acquire quality business assets at a lower price by arguing that the seller has already obtained a tax advantage with the accelerated depreciation. However, the downside is that the Goodwill may be affected as a result if the price remains as advertised, because the assets will have a lower written down value, therefore increasing the Goodwill component in the purchase price of the business.

As always, we encourage all business owners and potential buyers to discuss tax concessions and individual situations in detail, gaining a thorough understanding of your unique situation and how best to proceed when selling your business or purchasing an existing business.

If you are planning to sell your business or looking to buy an existing business, contact Core Business Brokers today. We would be honoured to guide you through your business sale or business purchase journey. Contact us on (02) 9413 2977 to chat with one of our experienced and friendly team or email us at [email protected]

Buying a business can be an intricate and in-depth process. There are many ways a business can be bought, sold or the ownership divided between several parties. A business sale occurs when a business is sold in full, allowing full ownership to be transferred from the previous owner to the buyer. In cases where the business forms part of a company, the process can become more complicated.

Business Sale: This involves a Business Sale Agreement, where the entire business, it’s assets, intellectual property, lease/freehold and all other business components are sold to the buyer, ownership is transferred and then the buyer owns all parts that allow the business to continue as a “going concern”.

The seller retains ownership of the company together with the current assets (cash, debtors, etc) and liabilities. Thus, the buyer starts a new company having purchased the goodwill, business name, fixed assets and possibly stock of the business.

Share Sale: A share sale is when a shareholder of the company that owns the business being acquired, sells their shares to a prospective buyer. This can range between part ownership or full ownership, depending on how many shares are sold and what the arrangement is. Unlike an asset sale, a share sale will include all the assets and liabilities; therefore, it is extremely important for a buyer to conduct a thorough due diligence to determine all risks associated with the share sale. Liabilities include those currently affecting the business as well as those that could potentially affect the business moving forward e.g. taxes owed to ATO. There are, however, positives to a share sale such as potential tax concessions (i.e capital gains tax) that could prove beneficial to the seller whilst being a smoother transition for the purchaser – as all agreements remain intact as well as the ABN, bank account contracts, leases, etc.

In this type of transaction, the seller can be expected to sign personal warranties regarding any past liability that the purchaser may inherit in the future.

It is vital to understand the taxation and legal risks associated with each type of sale when determining how best to sell your business or company. As always, we highly suggest discussing all components with your Accountant and Solicitor to determine the suitability of your sale path and to understand each process in detail.

If you are planning to sell your business, contact Core Business Brokers today. We will be more than happy to discuss your options, share our thoughts through countless years of experience and assist in any way possible – to make the process as smooth and effective as we can. Contact us on (02) 9413 2977 or email us at [email protected] to begin the conversation today.

Some decisions in life shouldn’t be made quickly and carelessly. Finding the perfect wedding photographer for example, or even choosing to propose for that matter! Just as those decisions could change the course of your life, selecting the right Business Broker to sell your business can have ripple effects that can either grow into great surfing waves – or a tsunami (as your business asset is likely to be your largest or 2^nd largest asset that you own!)

There are several important factors to consider when selecting your Business Broker. Here at Core Business Brokers, we are firm believers that the most fruitful and successful business transactions occur with a great team in place. Therefore, it is vital to find the best fit for you and your business, when searching for a Broker to assist in the sale.

• Background and credentials:
  
  Does this Business Broker have experience in your industry? Are they a member of the AIBB? Have they sold similar size businesses in the past? Do they have a long list of success stories, or are they not transparent about their sales history? It is important to find someone who knows what they are doing, has relevant training and expertise and understands your business and industry. At Core we have a combined 75 years’ experience to call on.
  
  
• Genuine Interest and care:
  
  Finding a Business Broker who genuinely wants to find you a buyer is a Business Broker you need on your team. If you feel the Broker is just going through the motions and ticking the boxes, they might not be the Broker for you. At Core Business Brokers, we are part of this process for a reason — we love what we do! The principals of Core are intimately involved in their business listings, which not only means they care, but also that their names and reputations are on the line.
  Employ a Business Broker that enjoys their job and finds satisfaction in the success they can achieve for you and your business.
  
  
• Detailed advertising and marketing plan:
  
  Discuss the plan of attack before signing on the dotted line. What steps will your Business Broker take to advertise and market your business to prospective buyers? Are they up to date with current trends and know what strategies work for your industry? Most importantly, are they flexible to try new methods if appropriate? We pride ourselves by thinking ‘outside the square’ where appropriate.
  
  
• Current workload:
  
  Find a Business Broker who has time for you. If they are flooded with business listings, it is highly likely that your business may get swept up in a pool of other businesses and not given the time and energy it requires. Make sure your Business Broker can handle their workload and that your business will be made a priority. At Core we believe in quality rather than quantity. Instead of listing thousands of businesses, we are selective in working with the right sellers to ensure we can deliver.
  
  
• Appropriate fee strategy:
  
  Fee strategies should be discussed from the word GO and transparency is key! Steer clear of giant upfront fees or big monthly retainers. A fee to cover marketing & advertising upfront is considered normal, with most Business Brokers then being paid on a commission basis at the end of a successful sale. No matter how your Business Broker operates, make sure that all fees are discussed and understood before proceeding.
  
  
• Trust your gut:
  
  The best Business Brokers sell themselves on their experience and reputation. If a Broker is pressuring you to sign quickly or giving you a bad gut feeling – then they are not the right fit for you. It is important for you to trust your instincts and find someone you believe in. Likewise, your Business Broker needs to believe they can sell your business before agreeing to come on board – it’s a two-way street!

If you are looking for the right Business Broker to sell your business, contact Core Business Brokers today. We are firm believers that business can only be successful with the right team in place. Allow us the opportunity to see if we are the right fit for you. Contact us on (02) 9413 2977 to chat to one of our experienced Brokers today, or email us at [email protected]

For most business owners, selling occurs out of need as opposed to want. You may need to sell due to financial, health or family reasons, which unfortunately dictate one of the most crucial planning points of a sale, the question of ‘when’ it occurs.

Ultimately, if you are in the position to make a clear and calculated decision when it comes to deciding when to sell your business, for example in order to retire; you will most likely achieve a higher sale price than if the timeframe is out of your hands due to reasons outside of your control.

So… I am planning to sell but am flexible with the timeframe. How do I know when the right time is?

How long is a piece of string? Many people may tell you that certain periods of the year are busier than others – and whilst this may be correct, it is based on past figures which are never a sure-fire, concrete determination of what the future holds. Instead of thinking of the right time being a certain period in the year, it is better to equip yourself and your business with the attributes that make it appealing to a potential buyer whenthe right time arises.

Below is a ‘to-do’ list when preparing your business for sale:

1. Improve your profits: Some buyers may not mind a ‘fixer-upper’, but it’s safe to say that most will look for a profitable business. If you know your business well, try to sell when the profits are high, as opposed to waiting for them to drop and then trying to convince buyers that profits will improve. “Trend is your friend” and buyers love to see a positive trend in sales and profits.
2. Make sure your financials are up-to-date and accurate: A great time to sell would be directly after your EOFY tax return. All documents are recent, relevant and (hopefully) neatly compiled. However, we do sell businesses throughout the year, so don’t let this deter you.
3. Ask your Core Business Broker about past trends in your industry: You may only sell your business once, but they sell businesses like yours every day. Their insight could save you a great deal and achieve a better sale price at the end of the day.
4. Standardise documents and procedures: A potential buyer will want to step into a business that is being run efficiently, with a clear outline of operations and procedures. Try and ensure that the ‘goodwill’ of your business does not rely entirely on you personally.
5. Resolve outstanding issues and debts: Eliminate liabilities and resolve outstanding debts and any issues that may detract from the business prior to listing your business for sale. Think of your business like a person who is getting ready for their first date. They want to look good, but ultimately if it’s all for show, they are going to be discovered eventually. Make some positive changes prior to listing your business for sale and genuine, qualified buyers will show interest. Work on a SWOT analysis with continual improvements to the areas that will be attractive to a buyer.

If you are planning to sell your business, contact Core Business Brokers today. We will be more than happy to discuss your industry, past sale history and guide you through your business sale process. Contact us on (02) 9413 2977 to chat with one of our experienced and friendly team or email us at [email protected]

Buying and selling businesses can seem straight forward, especially when looking in from the outside. However, there are many things to consider when doing so, which we covered in our previous blog ‘Understanding the Business Sale Process’.

Your Business Broker becomes your mentor throughout your sale process. Whether you are the buyer or seller, the Business Broker wears many hats. Let us explain:

1. Business Brokers represent the seller. They advertise the business, create a business memorandum that encapsulates all necessary business information and present this document to all viable, prospective buyers.
   
2. Their extensive network of qualified buyers is priceless. Alongside other marketing opportunities, your Broker has made hundreds of connections to buyers seeking businesses just like yours through years of work and relationship building.
   
3. Business Brokers maintain confidentiality. They have a vast network of professional contacts, from Accountants to Conveyancers who all work together to achieve the common goal ­- The business sale, without compromising the business in any way, shape or form.
   
4. A Broker acts as a go-between that liaises with the buyer and seller throughout the sale journey. Their role is the make the process as smooth and efficient as possible, taking a great deal of work off your plate, as the seller.
   
5. They ensure that all legal documents are filled out correctly, representing the needs of both the seller and the buyer. It is important to note that they go through this process frequently, therefore the chance of error is slim. Unlike yourself, who may only undertake one business sale in your lifetime, a Business Broker is a seasoned professional.
6. A Business Broker is exactly that, a professional. They can represent parties without emotional connections to your business. They can give honest advice, look at situations objectively and act accordingly.
   
7. The knowledge your Broker has through years of study and experience is invaluable. Their appraisal skills and attention to detail come into play when finding a realistic market price for your business. At Core Business Brokers, we’ve handled a variety of sales in a mix of industries. We have ample strategies to ensure that each business sale is achieved to the best of our ability. When you have a Business Broker you can trust, the process becomes less stressful and more efficient.
   
8. With the help of an experienced Business Broker, you can continue to run your business, without taking excessive amounts of leave to handle the sale process. Less day-to-day impact means the business continues its success during the sale journey.

To have your specific questions answered or to learn more about the role of a Business Broker, contact Core Business Brokers today, on (02) 9413 2977 or click here to email. Choosing a Business Broker you can trust is crucial to a successful sale.

AN INTERVIEW WITH PETER GOLDING AND ROY LEVY

Getting to know your Business Broker is an important part of your decision-making process when looking to buy a business or beginning your sale journey. Here at Core Business Brokers, we pride ourselves on our customer relationships, professionalism and the importance we place on trust, honesty and transparency.

In a recent interview, both Roy and Peter sat down to discuss what makes them tick, allowing us to see the men behind the business.

What made you become a Business Broker?  

Peter:      I entered this profession in 1998 after selling my business of 16 years. Through my own personal experiences selling my business, I dealt briefly with other Brokers and saw the need for a Business Broker who offered service and genuine feedback to their clients which in my opinion was severely lacking in the industry at the time.

Roy:         As an Accountant, I was involved in management consultancy where I assisted businesses to grow through marketing strategies and cash flow management. We then listed our company on the stock exchange and engaged in mergers and acquisitions where we listed 11 companies on the stock exchange. After emigrating to Australia in 1996, going into business broking was a natural progression for me — and it also gave me insight into how businesses differed in Australia.

How many years’ experience do you have in the industry?  

Peter:      21 years in the Business Broking industry.

Roy:         Approximately 14 years in South Africa and 23 years here in Australia

What makes Core Business Brokers different from other Business Broking firms?  

Peter:     Today many business owners find out the hard way that there is a difference between a selling agent and a listing agent. Unfortunately, there a number of Brokers that take an upfront fee and are not sighted again. We offer genuine market advice, provide comprehensive information on the business to our buyers in order for them to make an informed decision; and provide our vendors with regular updates on what is being said about their business out there in the market.
Roy:         We are a boutique firm and the owners are involved in the businesses we list. We have over 78 years’ of experience amongst the Brokers and thus anyone wishing to sell their business can be confident that they will have a well-experienced and professional Broker working for them.

What advice would you give to current business owners who want to achieve the best possible sale price for their business?  

Peter:      Make sure the business is ready for sale.  Are the financials and other business information up-to-date and presentable? Some businesses rely almost entirely on the owner’s daily management.  In this case, it is advisable for those types of vendors to try and see what staff members are capable within their organisation to step up to lessen this risk for a new buyer.
Roy:         If possible, prepare your business for sale from day 1. Critically assess the business by wearing a buyer’s hat and build the business to be able to operate without the owner’s continual input. Assess the SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities & threats) and work to reduce any risks that a buyer may see.

In your opinion, what are the biggest factors that influence a business sale?  

Peter:      There are many factors that can influence a business sale. Perhaps the most important is not having all the information available when required. Audited financials if not available can hugely affect a buyer’s trust and interest.  Security of tenure is also important for a buyer to have interest in the business purchase. Unfortunately, owner’s expectations and the current market are frequently not on the same page.
Roy:         Historical performance that can be proven, quality staff to run the business and good cash management to ensure positive cash flow. Regular and contracted income will be a huge positive.

What should buyers look for when selecting a business to purchase?

Peter:     Key questions to ask yourself as a buyer should include: Is my finance in place for the business in question? Can I afford to buy this business? Do I have experience in this Industry?  
Roy:       Experience in the industry of the business and the risks associated with the business itself and the industry in which it operates.

Roy, If you weren’t a Business Broker, what would you be doing?

Travelling! I would pack my bags and take a big holiday – I enjoy seeing new things and exploring new places.

Peter, What do you enjoy in your down time?

I love spending quality time with my family. I am a keen golfer, enjoy exercise, carpentry and gardening.

What do you both enjoy most about Business Broking?

Peter:     I enjoy dealing with all different types of business opportunities. Some are very different and most interesting.  
Roy:       I enjoy the satisfaction of a ‘win-win-win’ at the conclusion of the sale. I.e. The seller achieves an exit, the buyer purchases a good business and I as the Broker earn my commission; everyone is happy.

What advice do you have for aspiring Business Brokers who are entering the industry?

Peter:      Most Brokers don’t offer genuine customer service. In my opinion, most vendors want to feel respected and valued. Taking the time to provide regular updates and feedback to your clients is greatly appreciated.
Roy:         It takes a while to get a flow of business listings, which can be financially taxing at times. Never take your foot off the pedal, as you need a constant flow of new listings whilst working through the marketing, negotiations and contract of existing deals.

Like to know more about our friendly team? Or simply have a question about your business sale journey? Contact Core Business Brokers today, on (02) 9413 2977. Our knowledgeable team are always happy to answer your calls and queries.

You’ve decided to sell your business, but this terrain is unfamiliar. What is involved? Who should you contact? What does the process entail? In a business sale, there are many factors to consider, so we decided to outline the process, allowing you to begin your business sale journey with a better understanding of the steps involved.

1.    Meet with your Broker

Finding the right Broker is key. You want to select a professional with both industry experience and a friendly demeanour, as your Broker will be the point of call for all potential buyers. At Core Business Brokers, with a combined industry experience of 68 years, we have represented sellers from a variety of industries. We pride ourselves on our professional, yet down-to-earth nature, being an honest and reliable guide, leading you through your sale process. One of the Principals is a qualified Accountant who can steer you through the numbers.

2.    Business Appraisal

Your Core Business Broker will then appraise your business, looking at the business’ financial history, the current market conditions alongside other variables such as a SWOT analysis that will affect the current market price. It is important to remember that many factors affect the appraisal process and accepting a realistic, achievable sale price will increase the probability of a successful sale. We will tell you what you need to know – not just what you want to hear.

3.    Organise Your Financial Statements

Ask your Accountant to organise your financial information, making sure relevant financial statements are available and accurate. When you meet with your Accountant it is recommended that you discuss any tax implications associated with the sale of your business. It is also important to ensure that your exit strategy is both up-to-date and relevant to allow the transition process to be as smooth as possible post-sale.

4.    Advertising and Enquiries

Your Core Business Broker will advertise your business on all relevant platforms that are best suited to your industry. Alongside this, they will share your business with their extensive network of buyers and contacts, in order to find the best possible buyer. It is important to note that not all business sales are the same, and therefore advertising options vary for each business. Core Business Brokers will always maintain the level of confidentiality required to ensure your business is advertised discreetly if necessary. Encouragingly, we sell a good number of businesses through our expanding database of buyers.

5.    Offer and Negotiation

Interested parties will then submit an offer for your business and any negotiation will take place before the offer is accepted by you, the seller.

6.    Potential MOU (Memorandum of Understanding)

At this point, a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) may be utilised. Although not mandatory, a MOU outlines the agreed terms and conditions. The MOU acts as an assistant for the contract of sale to be drafted more efficiently. This can lower costs for both the buyer and seller, as it lessens the ‘back and forth’ between parties when the contract is being drawn up, thus reducing legal costs.

7.    Due Diligence

The buyer will then have an agreed time period to complete their due diligence. During this time they will review particular financial statements and other important information to ensure that the information provided by the seller is accurate, and to also allow any concerns to be addressed before the settlement date.

8.    Contract Preparation and Exchange

Both parties’ Solicitors are then involved in the process, preparing the sale contract and going back and forth between the buyer and seller until the contract is signed. At the time of signing, a deposit is paid by the buyer, which is held in trust until settlement takes place.

9.    Settlement

Once an agreed period has passed, all issues have been addressed and both parties are happy to proceed, settlement takes place. An up-to-date stock take occurs, the buyer pays the balance of the purchase price to the seller and the seller transfers the business and any associated business assets into the buyer’s name.

For a more in-depth explanation of the process, or to learn how your specific sale journey will unfold, contact Core Business Brokers today, on (02) 9413 2977. One of our professional and knowledgeable team will be more than happy to discuss your options and answer any questions you may have.

Planning your exit strategy, otherwise referred to as your ‘succession plan’ can seem like a daunting task. However, it is an important factor that should be planned well, before the need arises. Think of an exit strategy like any other important planning task – you have a big event on and need a specific outfit, if you leave the shopping until the last minute, it is likely that you will not find what you need before the big day. With business, the same rule applies. Planning correctly and giving yourself enough time to do so, will ensure a smooth, effective and successful transition when the time comes.

What do you include in an ‘exit strategy’?

• Time Frame: How long until your exit strategy is likely to take place as well and how long it will take to implement the exit strategy itself
• Successor: The details of your successor, if known
• Restrictions: Any legal, financial or other restrictions that may come into play
• Ownership: Whether the succession is part or full
• Financial considerations: Fees, tax, post-exit income options and any other components that need to be assessed prior to implementation
• Staff: Identifying any changes required prior to, during or post-transition
• Legal requirements: Any legal considerations alongside risk management solutions

Whether you are planning to sell your business or planning to hand over the reins to a family member or employee, an exit strategy outlines specific processes which when followed, create a seamless transition. An exit strategy ensures that the business continues to operate in the most successful manner whilst ownership transfers; maintaining the level of sales, providing the same services and following protocol which allow the operation to continue as normal.

Your exit strategy should identify ways to make your role, as the owner, less hands on. This will allow the transition to be gradual, whilst also allowing the business time to adjust and become less reliant on the current owner. This is an important aspect of an exit strategy, as it alleviates risk in the eyes of the successor, knowing that the business can function successfully without the previous owner present.

We recommend seeking legal advice when planning your exit strategy. This can rule out potential disputes and ensure that all legal requirements are addressed.

I’ve created my exit strategy, what now?

Review it annually. Think of your exit strategy like your will. As life changes and situations arise, modifications will need to be made. The creation of your exit strategy is a necessary and beneficial planning task, however, it will need to be altered and adjusted as the years go by.

Core Business Brokers have countless years of Business Broking experience, which means we understand that no two businesses are the same. When it comes to selling, we will treat your business like a unique operation, because it is. The Core Business Broker you deal with initially will see you through to the end of your sale, answering your questions and assisting throughout your sale journey.

If you are planning to exit your business, contact Core Business Brokers today. We will be more than happy to discuss your options and guide you through your business Sale. Contact us on (02) 9413 2977 to chat to one of our friendly and knowledgeable team.

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Once a new business is listed for sale  Core Business Brokers immediately emails to our exclusive business buyers database alerting each member of the new opportunity.

Stay in front of the market join our expanding list of business buyers

Simply click on CORE NEWS below on our home page or email [email protected] with your name, email address and mobile number. Please indicate whether you are interested in                     Food or Non Food businesses or Both. Thank you.