For founders, selling a business is one of the most significant and emotional milestones in the entrepreneurial journey. But not all exits are created equal—and not all founders walk away feeling like it was worth it. The most successful exits have more in common than you’d think. At Doida Crow Legal, we’ve guided hundreds of entrepreneurs through exits ranging from $500K to $100M+. Across all those deals, here’s what consistently sets them apart:
1. Preparation Starts Early
The best exits don’t start when a buyer knocks—they start 12 to 24 months before the deal. Successful founders treat their business like it’s already for sale: clean financials, buttoned-up contracts, protected IP, and no skeletons in the cap table. Buyers pay a premium for businesses that are easy to diligence. Sloppy records? Missing agreements? Misaligned ownership? Those things kill deals—or cut your valuation.
2. The Founder Has Clarity
Founders who exit well know why they’re selling and what they want. Is it a full exit? A roll-over? A strategic merger? They don’t just want to get “out”—they want to get somewhere. When you’re clear on the outcome you want, you’re better positioned to negotiate terms that align with your goals—financial, professional, and personal.
3. They Build a Rockstar Team
No founder should try to sell a business alone. The best exits are powered by a team: legal counsel, M&A advisors, tax planners, and sometimes a coach or therapist (no joke). Your attorney should do more than paper the deal—they should help you avoid landmines, protect your upside, and keep momentum alive through due diligence.
4. They Focus on the Buyer’s Perspective
Successful exits happen when the founder understands what the buyer wants. That means more than just a healthy bottom line—it includes strong recurring revenue, low customer churn, defensible IP, and a business that can run without you. When you build a business that’s attractive to others, you’re already halfway to a great deal.
Final Thought
You’ve built something valuable—make sure you exit on your terms. If you’re thinking about selling (even a few years out), the best time to start preparing is now. Ready to talk exit strategy? Contact us at info@doidacrow.com or call 720-210-5418.