Selling a business - when to exit and what will you do afterwards?

Selling a business - When to exit and what to do afterwards?

Selling your business isn’t just about the price tag — it’s about timing, structure, and what comes next.
Stacey and Michelle unpack how to decide when to exit, define your deal-breakers, and map out life after the sale — from staying on for a handover to taking a sabbatical, starting something new, or investing the proceeds.
Real talk on cash vs earn-outs/shares, staff considerations, premises, timelines, and making sure the net-in-hand funds your next chapter.

1. What you want — work, money, time and lifestyle (and finding a new sense of purpose).
2. Negotiables vs deal-breakers — staying on for transition, payment terms (cash up-front vs staged/earn-out/shares), staff continuity, premises, and realistic timelines.
3. Your after-plan — sabbatical, new venture, part-time, board roles, family time or retirement (and whether you’re truly happy working in the business you no longer own).
4. What you’ll do with the money — tax, loans, employee entitlements and costs so the headline price doesn’t trick you; plan from net proceeds back to the sale target.
   Practical, no-fluff guidance to design your next chapter with eyes wide open.

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