Avoid these 7 mistakes when selling your business

Expert Advice from Agent Local to Maximise Your Sale

Selling a business is one of the biggest financial and personal decisions an entrepreneur will ever make. Whether you're planning retirement, seeking a new challenge, or capitalising on success, the path to a successful exit requires careful strategy. Unfortunately, many business owners fall into common traps that can cost them time, money, and the right buyer. At Agent Local, we've guided thousands of UK businesses through successful sales, and we know what works—and what doesn’t.

One of the most damaging mistakes is failing to prepare your business properly before listing it for sale. This includes having disorganised financial records, unclear operational processes, or over-reliance on the owner to keep the business running. Buyers are quick to spot signs of instability, and it can dramatically lower confidence and your final valuation. Agent Local ensures your business is fully prepared behind the scenes before going to market, giving buyers the clarity and assurance they need to proceed.

Another critical error is overvaluing your business. Many owners let emotion or personal investment cloud their judgment, pricing the business far above what the market will bear. This not only deters serious buyers but can lead to long periods on the market with no traction. Our expert team provides data-backed, realistic valuations based on market trends, industry performance, and buyer behaviour, helping you go to market with confidence and credibility.

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Some owners also make the mistake of going it alone or using inexperienced brokers. Selling a business requires negotiation skills, marketing knowledge, legal coordination, and access to the right network of buyers. Without professional support, deals often collapse during due diligence or fail to attract suitable interest. At Agent Local, we offer a fully managed process and national buyer reach—handling everything from valuation to final agreement.

Confidentiality breaches are another major issue. Telling staff, suppliers, or competitors too early in the process can cause disruption or panic, potentially harming your operations or reputation. Agent Local handles all enquiries discreetly and ensures information is only shared with qualified, vetted buyers under strict non-disclosure agreements.

Neglecting to maintain business performance during the sale process is also a common misstep. Once owners decide to sell, some take their foot off the gas, which can lead to a drop in sales or service levels just when buyers are evaluating the business most closely. Our sales advisors work alongside you to keep momentum high and ensure your business continues performing well until the deal is closed.

“One of the biggest mistakes a business seller can make is believing a business sale is like selling a home.”

A poorly structured handover plan can also derail a sale. Buyers want to know what support will be available after completion and how the transition will be managed. Having no clear plan in place can delay negotiations or reduce buyer confidence. Agent Local helps you build a strong, realistic handover that supports a smooth transfer of ownership.

Lastly, ignoring deal structure and tax implications can lead to unexpected costs or regrets. The way your sale is structured—whether it's an asset sale, share sale, or phased handover—can have major financial consequences. We ensure you receive expert guidance on structuring the deal to protect your interests, while working with legal and financial advisors to keep everything compliant.

At Agent Local, we believe that every business sale deserves care, strategy, and expert execution. Avoiding these common mistakes can be the difference between an average exit and a great one. If you're considering selling, reach out to our experienced team for a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll guide you through the process, manage every step, and help you achieve the best possible result—confidentially and professionally.