ServicesMergers and Acquisitions
Mergers and Acquisitions in Elgin
Buying another company or folding yours into a bigger one is a lot of moving parts. We value both sides, find the right match, keep it confidential and give you a schedule you can plan around. When dates slip, you hear it from us first.
What we do on a merger or acquisition
Most small and mid-sized deals fall into a few types. You buy a competitor or a supplier. You merge with a business of similar size. Or a larger company wants to buy yours. Each one needs a fair price, the right partner, clean paperwork and a plan for the day after closing.
We handle the broker side of that work. We run the valuation, find and screen the other party, set up the letter of intent and keep due diligence on track. Your CPA and attorney do the tax and legal work. We keep everyone on the same calendar.
These deals rarely move in a straight line. Lenders ask for more documents. A landlord takes weeks to sign a lease assignment. We tell you up front which steps tend to drag, and we update you when the plan changes instead of letting the dates go quiet.
What's included
- 01
Valuation of both businesses
In a merger, both sides need a number. We look at earnings, owner add-backs, equipment, inventory and customer mix so the split is based on facts, not hopes.
- 02
Confidential search
We approach buyers, sellers or merger partners without naming you until they sign a nondisclosure agreement. Your staff, customers and vendors don't hear about it from the rumor mill.
- 03
Screening the other side
We check that a buyer can actually fund the deal, or that a target's books match its story, before you spend time on meetings.
- 04
Letter of intent and deal terms
We help set price, asset or stock sale, seller financing, earnouts and the transition period. Getting these on paper early heads off fights later.
- 05
Due diligence on a schedule
We build the document list, set dates for each piece and chase what's missing. You know what's due and when.
- 06
Closing coordination
We work with the attorneys, lender and CPAs so the closing date holds, or so you get real notice if it has to move.
Questions about Mergers and Acquisitions?
Call(512) 549-2955Signs an M&A conversation makes sense
A competitor has asked about buying you
An unsolicited offer is worth a look, but the first number is rarely the best one. A valuation tells you what you're actually turning down or accepting.
Growth has stalled
If you've hit the limit of your crew, equipment or territory, buying an existing business can add customers faster than building from scratch.
You want to add a location
Buying an established shop in a nearby town like Taylor or Hutto brings staff and a customer list from day one.
A partner or key supplier is struggling
Sometimes the best move is to absorb a business you already depend on before it closes or sells to someone else.
You're planning your exit
Selling to a larger company or merging can fit an exit plan better than a straight sale. Our exit planning page covers that side.
How the work runs
- 1
First call
You tell us what you want: buy, merge or sell. We ask about your numbers and your timing, and we tell you plainly what a realistic schedule looks like.
- 2
Valuation and plan
We value your business, and the other one if there is one. Then we lay out the steps with target dates for each.
- 3
Search and first talks
We reach out confidentially, screen who responds and set up meetings at our office or by phone and video. You only meet serious parties.
- 4
Letter of intent and diligence
Once terms are agreed on paper, diligence starts. We send you a weekly status so you always know what's done, what's waiting and what moved.
- 5
Closing and handoff
We line up the signing with attorneys and lenders, then help plan the transition so employees and customers hear the news the right way.
What moves the cost
There are no retainers and no hidden fees. On the selling side, we only get paid when the seller does, so you pay nothing up front when you list your business with us. On an acquisition or merger, we explain how our fee works on the first call, before any work starts.
- Size of the deal
- Larger deals have more assets, more contracts and more documents to review.
- How many parties are involved
- A two-company merger with several owners takes more coordination than one buyer and one seller.
- Financing
- Bank or SBA financing adds lender steps and paperwork. Our acquisition financing guidance page covers what lenders ask for.
- Condition of the books
- Clean, current financials move fast. Missing tax returns or mixed personal expenses take time to sort out.
- Real estate and leases
- If property is part of the deal or a lease must be assigned, that adds steps and third parties.
Mergers and acquisitions questions
How long does a merger or acquisition usually take?
Most small business deals take several months from first talks to closing, and some take longer. Financing, lease approvals and messy books are the usual delays. We give you a step-by-step schedule early and update it whenever something shifts.
Will my employees find out before the deal is done?
Not from us. Every interested party signs a nondisclosure agreement before they learn your name. We also help you plan when and how to tell your team once the deal is firm.
What's the difference between an asset sale and a stock sale?
In an asset sale the buyer picks the assets and usually leaves old liabilities behind. In a stock sale the buyer takes the whole company, including its history. Each has tax effects for both sides, so we work through the options with your CPA and attorney.
Do I still need a lawyer and an accountant?
Yes. We handle valuation, finding the other party, terms and keeping the deal on schedule. Your attorney drafts and reviews the contracts, and your CPA handles the tax side. We keep all of you working from the same timeline.
Can you help me buy a business instead of selling one?
Yes. We find and screen businesses that fit what you want, then help with the offer and diligence. You can also register as a buyer, and new listings go to registered buyers first. Our buy a business page has more.
Talk through your deal with us
Tell us what you're thinking of buying, merging or selling. We'll give you a straight read on value and a realistic timeline, and the consultation is free.