Many business owners underestimate how long it takes to sell a company. Even founders with simple structures or clean operations are often surprised by the timeline once the process begins. In this episode of The Funnel, Kirk explains what actually drives deal timelines and how different paths—unsolicited offers versus a full market process—change the schedule. He also outlines how preparation, diligence, and negotiations affect closing speed. Watch the video below to understand what to expect and how to plan.
In this episode of The Funnel, M&A advisor Kirk Michie explains how long it typically takes to sell a business and why founders often underestimate the timeline. Many owners assume their transaction will be simple due to business structure or limited complexity, but most deals follow a similar sequence regardless of size or industry.
Kirk outlines two common paths. Responding to an unsolicited offer can move quickly, sometimes closing in as little as 90 to 120 days if pricing and terms align. A fully marketed sale process, however, usually takes longer—often four to nine months, and occasionally closer to a year. Preparation alone can take 30 to 90 days, followed by buyer outreach, negotiations, and due diligence. Once a letter of intent is signed, exclusivity and heavy diligence typically last another 90 to 120 days.
This episode helps founders understand sell-side timelines, deal planning, due diligence duration, and exit readiness. For business owners considering an exit, the video provides a realistic framework for setting expectations and planning ahead.
A successful business may attract buyers, but that doesn’t mean it’s ready to sell. Kirk explains why starting your exit prep early can lead to a better price, better terms, and more control when the time comes.
Buyer questions can feel personal, especially when the deal process drags on. Kirk Michie explains how the right advisor can help you manage the pressure and keep the deal moving.
An offer may sound impressive, but is it actually a fair price? Kirk Michie explains how to understand your company’s market value before entering a sale process.
Many founders are surprised to learn that part of their sale proceeds may be tied up after closing. In this video, Kirk Michie explains how Rep & Warranty Insurance can sometimes reduce escrow requirements and help sellers keep more cash upfront.
Many founders focus on valuation and overlook what happens after closing. A transition services agreement can quietly shape your role, responsibilities, and time commitment long after the deal is signed.
Many founders hear terms like “platform company” or “tuck-in acquisition” during a sale process without understanding what they actually mean. In this video, Kirk Michie explains how private equity firms categorize businesses and why those labels can directly affect valuation multiples.
The market is still strong for A and A+ companies, but private equity buyers are becoming more selective. Kirk Michie explains what founders should know before deciding whether now is the right time to sell.
Most founders think about taxes too late in the sale process. In this video, Kirk Michie explains why exit tax planning should start earlier, how deal structure changes tax exposure, and why moving states right before a sale usually does not work the way founders expect.
