Exit Planning Checklist | Bridge Point Business Brokers

How to Use This Checklist

This comprehensive checklist covers all essential tasks for a successful business exit. Each phase builds upon the previous one, creating a systematic approach to maximize value and ensure smooth transition.

Timeline Recommendations:

• Start planning 3-5 years before intended exit
• Allow flexibility for market timing
• Regular progress reviews every quarter

Progress Tracking:

• Check off completed items
• Note completion dates
• Identify responsible parties

1

Phase 1: Discovery & Assessment (3-4 weeks)

Complete comprehensive business valuation

Date: ___________

Assess personal financial situation and retirement needs

Date: ___________

Define exit objectives and timeline

Date: ___________

Identify key business dependencies and risks

Date: ___________

Evaluate management team capabilities

Date: ___________

Review financial statements for past 3-5 years

Date: ___________

Analyze customer concentration and contracts

Date: ___________

Assess competitive position and market trends

Date: ___________

2

Phase 2: Strategy Development (4-6 weeks)

Select optimal exit strategy (strategic sale, MBO, family succession, ESOP)

Date: ___________

Develop value enhancement roadmap

Date: ___________

Create tax optimization strategy

Date: ___________

Design succession planning framework

Date: ___________

Establish exit timeline and milestones

Date: ___________

Identify potential buyers or successors

Date: ___________

Develop contingency plans for various scenarios

Date: ___________

Create communication strategy for stakeholders

Date: ___________

3

Phase 3: Value Enhancement (1-3 years)

4

Phase 4: Team Preparation (6-12 months)

Assemble advisory team (attorney, CPA, investment banker)

Date: ___________

Optimize legal structure for exit

Date: ___________

Prepare comprehensive documentation package

Date: ___________

Identify and train successor management

Date: ___________

Develop employee retention strategies

Date: ___________

Create detailed operations manual

Date: ___________

Establish quality of earnings analysis

Date: ___________

Prepare marketing materials and presentations

Date: ___________

5

Phase 5: Exit Execution (6-18 months)

Launch marketing process to potential buyers

Date: ___________

Manage buyer identification and qualification

Date: ___________

Negotiate letters of intent and deal structure

Date: ___________

Coordinate due diligence process

Date: ___________

Manage legal documentation and contracts

Date: ___________

Oversee regulatory approvals if required

Date: ___________

Plan and execute closing process

Date: ___________

Coordinate post-closing transition

Date: ___________

6

Phase 6: Post-Exit Support (Ongoing)

Monitor transition progress

Date: ___________

Coordinate with wealth management advisors

Date: ___________

Assist with legacy planning initiatives

Date: ___________

Provide consultation for next ventures

Date: ___________

Maintain confidentiality agreements

Date: ___________

Support earnout or seller financing arrangements

Date: ___________

Plan tax-efficient wealth transfer strategies

Date: ___________

Evaluate philanthropic opportunities

Date: ___________

Progress Summary

___/8

Phase 1 Complete

___/8

Phase 2 Complete

___/10

Phase 3 Complete

___/8

Phase 4 Complete

___/8

Phase 5 Complete

___/8

Phase 6 Complete

___/50

Total Tasks Completed

Target: Complete all phases within 24-36 months