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The Hawk 5-Step Flight Plan: Navigating Your Business Sale from Lift-Off to Landing

  • Writer: Nancy Webb
    Nancy Webb
  • Aug 28, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Sep 8, 2025

Selling your business is one of the biggest financial and personal decisions you’ll ever make. Just like a pilot never takes off without a flight plan, a successful business sale requires careful preparation, the right strategy, and a trusted co-pilot to guide you through every turn.


At Hawk Business Brokers, we’ve developed the 5-Step Flight Plan to help business owners navigate the journey with clarity, confidence, and confidentiality.


Step 1: Pre-Flight Check – Engage Your Co-Pilot


Before takeoff, every plane goes through a safety check—and your business sale is no different.


  • Execute the Listing Agreement

  • Assemble key financial and operational documents

  • Complete a professional business valuation


This ensures you’re ready for the journey ahead and sets the foundation for a successful sale.


Step 2: Chart the Course – Value & Profile the Business


Just as a pilot maps the route before flying, we define the path forward by:


  • Establishing the asking price based on valuation and market conditions

  • Preparing a confidential listing profile to present your business to qualified buyers


This step ensures your business is positioned competitively in the market.


Step 3: Takeoff – Market & Prescreen Buyers


Once the plan is set, it’s time to get airborne. We launch your confidential marketing strategy and begin screening potential buyers by:


  • Collecting Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)

  • Interviewing and prescreening buyers for financial capability and fit

  • Arranging confidential tours for serious prospects



This stage keeps your business protected while attracting qualified buyers.


Step 4: Mid-Flight Maneuvers – Offers & Due Diligence


In the air, adjustments are essential. During this stage, we manage:


  • Receiving and reviewing offers

  • Preparing for due diligence (buyer review of financials, operations, contracts)

  • Identifying funding sources (including SBA financing, investor capital, or seller financing options)

  • Opening escrow to begin the formal closing process


Every detail matters to keep the deal moving forward smoothly.



Step 5: Final Approach & Landing – Escrow & Closing


As the destination approaches, precision is key. Together, we:


  • Clear buyer contingencies

  • Review and sign the final closing documents

  • Transfer funds securely through escrow



Touchdown! Congratulations—you’ve arrived at your destination: a successful business sale.


Your Flight Plan for Success


Selling your business doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With Hawk Business Brokers as your co-pilot, you’ll have a clear roadmap, a trusted advocate, and an experienced guide who ensures every step is executed with strategy, confidentiality, and care.


Ready to plan your flight? Contact us today to start your journey with confidence.

 
 
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