Selling your business is more than a financial transaction – it’s a transition of identity, structure, and purpose. And while many owners spend months (or years) preparing the business for sale, far fewer take time to prepare themselves.
But here’s the truth: the most successful exits aren’t just about getting the best price. They’re about making sure you land well – financially, emotionally, and personally – in whatever comes next.
At Qurate, we’ve seen firsthand how the best deals are those that work not just on paper, but in real life. Here’s how to start thinking about life after the deal.
Step 1: Know what you’re really selling
You’re not just selling cash flow – you’re handing over the rhythm of your life, the structure of your week, and often, the thing that’s defined your professional identity for years.
Before you go to market, ask yourself:
- What will I do when I don’t run this business anymore?
- What do I want my days, weeks, and years to look like?
- What matters to me once the pressure is gone?
Answering these questions early can help shape how you structure the deal, whether you stay involved post-sale, take a full exit, or keep equity in a growth story.
Step 2: Design your next chapter, not just your exit
It’s easy to fixate on valuation and negotiation. But the smartest sellers also start planning their life beyond the deal, often 6–12 months before they even go to market.
That might include:
- Exploring advisory or board roles
- Investing in other businesses or sectors
- Spending more time on family, philanthropy, or personal development
- Starting something new – but without the pressure of ownership
A well-structured sale should give you options, but it’s up to you to be clear on which ones you want to take.
Step 3: Structure the deal to support your future
How you sell matters just as much as what you sell for. Consider:
- Earn-outs and vendor finance – Are you emotionally ready to stay tied to the business?
- Equity rollovers – Will you remain a shareholder in a bigger future story?
- Advisory roles – Do you want a part-time seat at the table or a clean break?
- Tax outcomes – Are you working with the right specialists to protect and preserve your capital?
Step 4: Plan for the emotional shift
This part often catches owners off guard.
The early months post-sale can feel like a strange mix of relief, excitement… and loss. You may miss the team, the decisions, the deal flow, or simply the routine. That’s normal. But going in prepared makes a massive difference.
Surround yourself with people who understand what you’re navigating – family, mentors, other exited founders, or professionals who’ve been there.
Final Thought: The best time to plan for life after sale, is before the sale
A great exit isn’t just about walking away with a healthy bank balance. It’s about walking into a future that’s intentional, well-structured, and aligned with who you want to become.
At Qurate, we work with business owners to get the deal right and to land well on the other side, because selling the business is just the beginning.
The information on this website is general in nature and is not intended to constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should seek appropriate professional advice before acting on any content. While we draw on our experience as business owners and corporate advisors, our insights are not a substitute for tailored advice.
