The Complete Seller's Guide
Everything you need to know to successfully sell your online business on StartExus. From preparation to closing, we'll help you maximize your business value.
Start Selling NowPrepare Your Business for Sale
The key to a successful sale is proper preparation. Here's what you need to do before listing your business.
Financial Documentation
- Last 12-24 months of revenue records
- Bank statements and payment processor records
- Profit and loss statements
- Tax returns (if applicable)
- Expense breakdowns and recurring costs
Performance Metrics
- Google Analytics data and traffic reports
- Customer acquisition costs and metrics
- Conversion rates and sales funnels
- Customer retention and churn rates
- SEO rankings and keyword performance
Value Your Business
Understanding your business value is crucial for setting the right price and attracting serious buyers.
Common Valuation Methods
Revenue Multiple
Typically 1-5x annual revenue, depending on growth, profitability, and business model.
Profit Multiple
Usually 2-4x annual profit (SDE), higher for SaaS businesses with recurring revenue.
Asset-Based
Value based on tangible and intangible assets including domain, inventory, and IP.
Factors That Increase Value
- Consistent revenue growth
- Recurring revenue model
- Diversified traffic sources
- Strong brand and domain authority
- Documented processes and systems
- Low owner dependence
Create Your Listing
A compelling listing attracts more qualified buyers and leads to faster sales at better prices.
Compelling Title
Create a clear, descriptive title that highlights your business's key strength.
Good:
"Profitable SaaS Tool - $15K MRR, 200% YoY Growth"
Detailed Description
- • Business model and revenue streams
- • Target market and customers
- • Key features and competitive advantages
- • Growth opportunities
- • Why you're selling
Trust Signals
- • Verified financial data
- • Professional business photos
- • Detailed asset inventory
- • Transparent about challenges
- • Responsive to buyer questions
Best Practices for Success
Do's
- Be transparent about all aspects of your business
- Respond quickly to buyer inquiries
- Keep detailed records and documentation
- Price competitively based on market data
- Provide comprehensive handover documentation
Don'ts
- Hide important business information
- Overprice based on emotional attachment
- Neglect the business during the sale process
- Rush through due diligence questions
- Ignore buyer feedback or concerns
Typical Sale Timeline
Preparation (1-2 weeks)
Gather documentation, create listing, get verified
Marketing (2-6 weeks)
Listing goes live, receive inquiries, answer questions
Negotiation (1-2 weeks)
Receive offers, negotiate terms, agree on final price
Transfer (1-2 weeks)
Complete escrow, transfer assets, provide handover support
Ready to Sell Your Business?
Join thousands of successful sellers who have used StartExus to maximize their business value and achieve a smooth, secure sale.