The CRE Resources 5-Phase Method
Selling a business is one of the most complex transactions you'll ever undertake. We've spent decades refining a structured, repeatable process that minimizes risk, protects confidentiality, and maximizes your outcome.
Every engagement follows these five phases. No shortcuts. No surprises.
Phase 1: Engagement & Preparation
The foundation. We align on goals and get organized.
- Finalize the Brokerage Agreement and scope of work
- Gather and organize all financial, operational, and legal documentation
- Build your secure Disclosure Portal — a private, NDA-gated data room for qualified buyers
- Develop your Business Narrative — the compelling story of your company's history, market position, and untapped potential
Timeline: 1–2 weeks
Phase 2: Valuation & Strategic Pricing
We establish what your business is worth and how to position it.
- Complete a formal Business Valuation Report (Level 2 or Level 3 Appraisal)
- Recast and normalize financials to present true owner earnings
- Identify all tangible and intangible assets included in the sale
- Develop a strategic asking price designed to attract serious buyers while maximizing your return
- Prepare an Exit Plan and Sales Strategy tailored to your timeline and goals
Timeline: 10 business days
Phase 3: Confidential Marketing & Listing
We take your business to market — confidentially.
- Create the Offering Memorandum (OM) — a "blind" profile highlighting key strengths without revealing identity
- Prepare the Confidential Information Memorandum (CIM) — a comprehensive document shared only with NDA-signed, qualified buyers
- Launch a multi-channel marketing campaign:
- Professional broker networks and syndicated listing services
- Targeted buyer outreach (email, phone, social)
- CRE Resources preferred buyer database
- Industry-specific channels where appropriate
Timeline: Ongoing (3–9 months on average)
Phase 4: Buyer Screening & Negotiation
We filter for serious, qualified buyers and negotiate the best deal.
- All interested parties must sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement
- Buyers complete a Buyer Profile & Qualification Questionnaire
- We verify financial capacity, operational experience, and buyer fit
- Coordinate and facilitate Buyer-Seller Meetings — you'll be well-prepared
- Solicit offers and negotiate terms, culminating in a signed Letter of Intent (LOI)
Timeline: Concurrent with Phase 3
Phase 5: Due Diligence & Closing
We manage the final stretch through to settlement day.
- Coordinate the Due Diligence process with the buyer's advisors (attorneys, accountants, lenders)
- Manage landlord communications and Lease Assignment approvals
- Work alongside your legal counsel to finalize the Business Purchase Agreement
- Coordinate all closing activities:
- Escrow instructions and deposit management
- Third-party approvals and government filings
- Bill of Sale, Affidavit of Title, and asset transfer
- Final funds exchange and settlement
Timeline: 2–4 months from accepted LOI
What Makes Our Process Different
Confidentiality First
Information about your business is released in controlled stages. Buyers only see sensitive data after signing an NDA and passing qualification.
Data-Driven Decisions
Every recommendation is backed by financial analysis, market data, and comparable transaction benchmarks — not guesswork.
Hands-On Management
We don't hand you a listing and disappear. We actively manage buyer outreach, screening, negotiations, and closing logistics.
No Long-Term Contracts
We earn your business every month. If you're not satisfied, you're free to walk away. That's how confident we are in our process.
Ready to explore your options? Submit an inquiry and we'll reach out within 1 business day.