Preparing Your Business for Sale in 2026: A Strategic Roadmap

Industry experts expect 2026 to be a more active year for buying and selling businesses as financing conditions improve and private equity firms continue to deploy record levels of capital, particularly in sectors like professional services, manufacturing, and technology. 

But, owners who wait too long or enter the market unprepared risk missing their window. An economic outlook from Vistage expects that the U.S. is on course for a sustained stagflationary period, so anyone looking to get top dollar for their business would be wise to sell sooner rather than later. 

If you’re thinking about selling your business in 2026, you need to start preparing now. At Calhoun Companies, we’ve seen time and again that preparation, not timing, is what drives a successful sale. The owners who achieve the smoothest transitions and strongest valuations are those who begin organizing early by getting their numbers in order, streamlining operations, and thinking strategically about what buyers will see when they walk through the door.

So what does smart preparation look like in today’s market?

  1. Clarify your “why.” Ask yourself what you want to achieve from a sale (maximum value, a quick exit, a smooth handoff to your team, etc.). Your goals will shape every other decision you make, from deal structure to potential timeline.
  2. Build your team. Connect with the partners you will need in place in order to sell your business and let them know your goals, timeline, etc. This will include your lawyer, CPA, a business broker, etc. If you don’t have a team already in place, now is the time to connect with a business broker who can help you build one.
  3. Clean up your financials. Buyers and banks want predictable performance and verifiable numbers. Review your last few years of statements, address any one-time expenses, and make sure profitability trends are clear. If you can show steady, upward progress (or at least stability) you’ll attract more serious interest from buyers.
  4. Update your technology. A solid digital footprint helps businesses sell. So do updated systems and professional website. All of these signal that your business is well-run and well-known.
  5. Make your business transferable. Too often an owner decides to sell but hasn’t ensured their team is capable of running things after they’re gone. The more you can demonstrate that your business can operate without you, the more confident buyers will feel in paying a premium price.
  6. Prepare yourself. Don’t forget the personal side. Selling a business you’ve built and run for decades can be emotional. Think about what comes next for you and factor that into your planning to ensure you’re truly ready.

If you’re even considering a sale in 2026, the best first step is a conversation. We help business owners navigate every step of the process, from valuation to marketing to closing. If you’d like to discuss your goals or start preparing for a 2026 sale, contact us today for a confidential consultation. The best deals start with early planning.