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Growth Focus

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How to Maintain Deal Momentum

One important observation we’ve made is that many business owners enter negotiations with enthusiasm but struggle to maintain deal momentum. The missing ingredient is a well-defined process…without it, deals often lose traction, become bogged down in unnecessary complexities, and ultimately fail to reach completion. Delays, shifting priorities, and lack of alignment can stall progress, creating uncertainty and frustration for all parties involved. A well-structured approach ensures that the deal stays on track and moves toward a successful close.

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The Fly in the Ointment – Lead with the Problem

Years of calling the shots and being in control can make the thought of stepping back feel daunting. Suddenly, you’re no longer at the helm steering the ship; instead, you’re hoping the new captain knows how to navigate the waters. But succession planning isn’t just about handing over the keys; it’s about making sure you are on the right path. Get it wrong, and you could find yourself stuck in an operational tug-of-war, with fewer exit options and more headaches than you signed up for.

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Actual Price Vs Business Valuation

Value and the price that can be achieved in the open market are two different things. This is something we’ve witnessed time and time again over 15 years in the industry. Two businesses that look almost identical on paper—sometimes even receiving similar formal valuations—can end up selling for dramatically different prices.

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Equity vs Control

Years of calling the shots and being in control can make the thought of stepping back feel daunting. Suddenly, you’re no longer at the helm steering the ship; instead, you’re hoping the new captain knows how to navigate the waters. But succession planning isn’t just about handing over the keys; it’s about making sure you are on the right path. Get it wrong, and you could find yourself stuck in an operational tug-of-war, with fewer exit options and more headaches than you signed up for.

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The Importance of Good Data

While it’s tempting to cut corners and “figure it out later,” poor data preparation will only slow things down and undermine trust. Getting your data in order isn’t just a box to tick—it significantly increases your chances of a smoother sale and a higher valuation.

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Importance of Anonymity when Selling your Business

When it comes to selling your business, keeping things under wraps can be a strategic necessity. Anonymity safeguards your company’s value, prevents unnecessary chaos, and ensures you’re in control. Let’s dive into the why, how, and who of staying incognito while you work toward achieving your optimum outcome

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When Is the Best Time to Sell Your Financial Planning Practice?

When it comes to selling your financial planning practice, it’s not about chasing the market. The best time to sell isn’t dictated by market highs or external conditions – it’s about you. Surprisingly, the ideal time to sell is when you don’t need to. Why? Because selling from a position of strength allows you to plan, negotiate, and execute the sale on your terms. Let’s explore why this approach leads to better outcomes and how you can prepare for the most rewarding exit.

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Deal Fatigue

At Growth Focus, we’ve seen many deals that start with fireworks but fizzle out before the grand finale due to an insidious culprit: Deal Fatigue. It’s that feeling when the journey becomes so long, convoluted, and draining that both parties are ready to throw in the towel. Think of it as a marathon where, halfway through, you’re questioning your life choices and wondering why you didn’t just Uber to the finish line. In the world of financial service practice sales, it’s all too common—and entirely avoidable with the right perspective.

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Red Flags & Dealbreakers

Here’s the thing: spotting red flags and deal breakers isn’t about assuming the worst in others. It’s about knowing yourself. What do you really want in this deal? What are your non-negotiables? And what’s worth working through?

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Deal Wobble Phenomena

Growth Focus has noticed a phenomena in Financial Service Practice sales just before a contract of sale is to be signed. We call this the Deal Wobble.

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