How do I increase the value of my business before selling?

A practical valuation answer

Before selling, value the business as a buyer would: normalize earnings, test realistic market multiples, review assets and liabilities, and identify risks that could reduce price during due diligence. Doing this early turns valuation into a roadmap for improving sale readiness, not just a one-time number.

For this type of engagement, the analysis usually focuses on quality and predictability of earnings, depth of management and documented systems, and customer mix, concentration, and growth capacity. That is how the answer moves from a generic opinion to a defensible valuation conclusion that fits the facts.

Core valuation checklist

• Confirm the valuation purpose, date, and standard of value before starting.
• Collect the records that matter most: financial statements, tax returns, ownership documents, contracts, and any relevant legal or tax materials.
• Analyze quality and predictability of earnings, depth of management and documented systems, and customer mix, concentration, and growth capacity.
• Document assumptions clearly so the conclusion can be explained to buyers, advisors, counterparties, or the court if needed.