You Have a Buyer—But You Still Need a Broker!
“If you had a buyer for your house but skipped the real estate agent, would you be confident you’re getting the best deal, avoiding legal pitfalls, and ensuring a smooth closing?” Many dentists think that once they have a buyer, they can handle the sale themselves and save money. But selling a dental practice is far more complex than a handshake agreement. Here’s why having a broker is still essential:
1. Protecting You from Costly Mistakes
Even with a buyer in place, structuring the deal properly is critical. Without a broker:
- You may undervalue your practice by failing to structure it for maximum tax benefits.
- You might overlook critical contract terms, leading to disputes or legal issues later.
- You could lose leverage in negotiations, especially if the buyer has experienced advisors on their side.
2. Negotiating Beyond Price
Price is only part of the equation. A broker ensures that terms are favorable to you, including:
- Payment structure (lump sum vs. earnout, seller financing, etc.)
- Transition timeline and post-sale involvement
- Employee retention agreements
- Handling patient attrition risks
3. Managing the Due Diligence Process
A broker coordinates with attorneys, accountants, and lenders, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. They help:
- Keep the process on schedule
- Address potential red flags before they become deal-breakers
- Avoid unnecessary delays that can lead to the buyer backing out
4. Compliance & Legal Protections
A poorly structured sale can lead to unexpected tax burdens, post-sale liabilities, or even lawsuits. Brokers help ensure:
- Proper documentation for a legally sound transaction
- Compliance with state regulations and transfer requirements
- A fair and balanced contract that protects your interests
5. Maximizing Your Take-Home Value
Even with a buyer, a broker helps you get the best possible financial outcome. Often, the increased value they negotiate more than covers their fee—and then some.
A Broker is Your Insurance Policy for a Smooth, Profitable Sale
You’ve spent years building your practice—this is one of the most important financial transactions of your life. Having a broker ensures you don’t leave money on the table, make costly mistakes, or take unnecessary risks.
Would you like to schedule a quick call to see how we can make this process smoother and more profitable for you?
Contact Our Team:
Lucas J Harmon – Lucas.Harmon@DentalStrategic.com
Maegan Conner – Maegan.Conner@DentalStrategic.com
Colton Brown – Colton.Brown@DentalStrategic.com
Cooper Brown – Cooper.Brown@DentalStrategic.com