How Do I Prepare for a Successful Business Exit? (2025 Owner's Guide)

Why This Matters in 2025

Most Metro Detroit business owners spend decades building something they’re proud of. But when it comes to leaving, too many owners are caught off guard. A “successful” exit means more than just a sale price — it’s about your financial freedom, family legacy, and peace of mind.

This guide walks you through how to prepare for a successful exit so you can position your company for maximum value and you can live your life.

Why Most Owners Struggle with Exit Planning

1. 70% of owners regret how they exited

2. Top reasons: rushed sale, no valuation, poor tax planning

Self-Check: Are You Ready?

It starts by making a simple checklist that takes inventory of your financials, operational processes and personal readiness.

Example: One Metro Detroit owner prepared for his exit by gathering three years of tax returns and general ledgers. He also documented his key processes at a high level — how new customers are captured, how jobs are estimated, how invoices are handled, and the steps to complete an installation. Just as important, he took time to picture life after the business — whether that meant longer hunting trips in the U.P. or lazy afternoons on the Torch Lake sandbar.

Next Steps

1. Don’t wait until you’re “burned out”

2. Get a valuation now and revisit annually

3. Talk to trusted advisors (CPA, attorney, succession specialist)

Get Your Exit Readiness Score in less than 3 minutes and see where you stand today.

We’ve built a free, exist readiness tool tailored for Michigan businesses. In less than 3 minutes, you can:

• A plain-English readiness score
• Top 3 fixes to add value before a sale
• Personalized next-chapter roadmap