Once founders start thinking seriously about selling, the process questions begin. One of the most common is whether hiring an investment banker is necessary—or worth it. In this episode of The Funnel, Kirk explains how deal size, buyer competition, and leverage factor into that decision. He also outlines alternative paths, including brokers, advisors, and direct sales. Watch the video below to understand which approach may fit your situation.
In this episode of The Funnel, M&A advisor Kirk Michie explains when founders should consider hiring an investment banker and when other approaches may be appropriate. As business owners move deeper into the exit process, questions about deal structure, buyer access, and negotiation leverage become more important.
Kirk explains that investment bankers are most valuable when a business is attractive enough to generate interest from multiple buyers. By creating competitive tension, bankers can help drive higher valuations, better terms, and clearer post-close outcomes. He also notes that founders negotiating directly with a single buyer often lack the leverage needed to achieve the best possible deal. For smaller transactions—often under $5–10 million—alternatives like business brokers, exit planners, legal-led processes, or marketplace listings may be more practical.
This episode helps founders evaluate whether to hire an investment banker, understand sell-side advisory options, and weigh the trade-offs between direct deals and market-driven processes. For owners planning an exit, the video offers a realistic framework for choosing the right level of support.
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.
