Thinking, “How do I sell my business in Perth?” You’re not alone. Whether you're ready to retire, explore new ventures, or simply move on, selling your business is a major life and financial decision.
But here’s the deal: selling a business isn’t just putting up a “For Sale” sign. It takes strategy, planning, and a deep understanding of the market—especially in a unique place like Perth. So let’s break it down.
💡 Understanding Your "Why"
Before doing anything else, get clear on why you’re selling.
Reasons Owners Sell Businesses
- Retirement
- Burnout
- New opportunities
- Life changes (health, relocation)
- Market timing
Knowing Your Exit Goals
Your goals shape your entire strategy. Do you want:
- Maximum payout?
- A fast sale?
- Someone to carry your legacy?
Being clear helps you (and your broker) find the right buyer.
⏳ Timing the Sale
Timing can make or break your sale.
When Is the Right Time to Sell?
Ideally, when:
- Revenue is strong
- You’ve had consistent growth
- Your business doesn’t rely heavily on you to run
Market & Economic Conditions
Perth’s economy is cyclical, especially with mining, construction, and services. Sell when your sector is hot—or just before.
🧹 Preparing Your Business for Sale
Buyers want clean, well-oiled machines—not fixer-uppers.
Financial Housekeeping
- Up-to-date BAS, P&Ls, balance sheets
- Clear tax lodgements
- Trackable income and expenses
Operational Systems
- Documented processes
- Trained team
- Contracts and leases in place
Legal and Compliance
Make sure:
- You have IP ownership
- Licenses are current
- Employee contracts are sorted
📊 Business Valuation
This is where most sellers guess—and it hurts them.
How to Value a Business
Typical valuations include:
- Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)
- Owner’s earnings (SDE)
- Asset value
Valuation Methods
- Multiple of earnings (most common)
- Discounted cash flow
- Asset-based valuation
Work With a Professional
A local Perth business broker or valuer can give you a realistic, defensible price.
🔁 Choosing How to Sell
You’ve got two options: DIY or hire a pro.
Private Sale
- More control
- More work
- Limited reach
Using a Business Broker
- Wider exposure
- Buyer screening
- Better negotiation
Risks of DIY Selling
- Undervaluing
- Leaking confidential info
- Wasting time with tyre-kickers
🤝 Finding the Right Business Broker in Perth
This is a biggie. Your broker can make or break your deal.
What to Ask
- How many similar businesses have you sold?
- What's your process?
- Do you have buyers ready?
Why Local Matters
Perth’s market is different. You need someone who knows WA laws, industries, and buyer behaviour.
OZ Advisory: Your Local Partner
At OZ Advisory, we specialise in selling Perth businesses with tailored support, end-to-end.
📣 Marketing Your Business
No, you don’t put it on Facebook Marketplace.
Create a Strong Information Memorandum
It’s like a business CV—shows:
- Revenue & profit
- Business model
- Growth opportunities
- Team, systems, IP, and more
Where to Advertise
- Business sales platforms (e.g., Seek Business, Bsale)
- Confidential buyer networks
- Broker’s buyer list
Maintain Confidentiality
Use NDAs. Don’t share names, locations, or financials upfront.
🧑💼 Screening Buyers
Everyone says they want to buy. Few are serious.
Know the Buyer Types
- First-time entrepreneurs
- Strategic buyers (competitors)
- Investors or private equity
Qualify Buyers
Ask:
- Do they have funds?
- Do they understand the industry?
- Are they decision-makers?
🤝 Negotiating the Sale
This is where deals are won or lost.
Structuring Offers
- Full cash
- Earn-outs
- Vendor finance
Negotiation Tips
- Stay calm
- Use a broker as a buffer
- Know your bottom line
📋 Due Diligence
Now the buyer wants to peek under the hood.
What They’ll Ask
- Financials
- Contracts
- Staff details
- Leases and liabilities
Be Prepared
Organised sellers = faster sales and higher confidence.
✅ Finalising the Deal
We’re almost there!
Legal Documents
Your lawyer and broker will help with:
- Sale of business agreement
- Handover plans
- Restraints of trade
Settlement Process
- Transfer of assets
- Lease assignments
- Final payments
🔁 Transition Planning
Don’t vanish the day after payday.
Smooth Handover
Train the new owner:
- Operations
- Supplier relationships
- Customer service
Stay Involved (if needed)
A short consulting agreement can add value.
💰 Tax Considerations
Plan before you sell, not after.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
You may owe tax on the profit—but there are exceptions.
Small Business CGT Concessions
You might be eligible for:
- 15-year exemption
- 50% active asset discount
- Retirement exemption
Get Tax Advice
Always consult a business accountant or advisor.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these traps.
Overpricing
Kills buyer interest. Be realistic.
Not Preparing
Buyers want ready-to-run operations.
Choosing the Wrong Broker
Look for local, experienced, and transparent professionals.
Selling your business in Perth isn’t easy but with the right planning, people, and process, it can be smooth and profitable. Whether you’re stepping into retirement or stepping into something new, make sure you do it the smart way.
Working with a trusted partner like OZ Advisory can help you every step of the way from valuation to negotiation and beyond.
❓FAQs
1. How long does it take to sell a business in Perth?
It usually takes 3 to 12 months, depending on the business type, price, and buyer demand.
2. Do I need a business broker to sell my business?
Not legally, but a broker can save you time, protect your confidentiality, and often get a better price.
3. How much is my business worth?
That depends on your earnings, assets, and industry. Most small businesses sell for 2–4 times their annual profit.
4. Can I keep the sale private?
Yes. With NDAs and strategic marketing, your broker can protect your identity during the process.
5. What fees do business brokers charge in Perth?
Usually 5%–10% of the sale price, often success-based. Always clarify this upfront.
Ready to Sell Your Business in Perth? Let's Make It Happen.
At OZ Advisory, we help Perth business owners like you sell faster, smarter, and for the right price. From business valuation to buyer negotiations—we handle it all, so you can focus on what’s next.
👉 Book a Free Consultation Today
Let’s talk strategy, no pressure.
📞 Call us at: +61 1300 952 854
📧 Email: info@ozadvisory.com.au
Visit 👉 www.ozadvisory.com.au