The questions to ask 3 years before you exit
June 9, 2026 •
Okay, time to be honest with me:
Do you have a number in your head that you think your business would be worth if you sold tomorrow?
If you do, and I think you might, keep it in your mind for a minute while I ask you a few more questions.
- If a buyer approached you tomorrow, do you feel confident you actually know everything you have and what it’s truly worth?
- Do you know what it costs to fund your life when no expenses run through the business?
- Do you have a plan for what you’ll do after you exit?
- Do you know which exit option is right for you?
- And is your team coordinated enough to get you there?
In our experience, when deals fall through it’s often because the buyer lost confidence — they didn’t have answers to key questions and so backed away.
So let’s go back to that number in your head. Where did it come from?
If it came from your EBITDA, is that an accurate view of the value of the business? What about all the legitimate personal expenses and one-time costs that have run through the business, which a buyer wouldn’t carry?
That’s just one of the questions we help our clients answer, and it’s one of the most important things you can do a few years out from your exit.
Because the earlier you know your true number, the more time you have to get there.
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You just need to start asking the right questions.
If you’d like help getting that conversation started, reach out and let’s talk.
-Michael
Book a JobWalk with me and we can start the conversation.
Interested in other Rungs? Check out:
- The full Ladder here or the audio edition here
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HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives and is not intended as a recommendation appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment advisor to determine whether any information presented may be suitable for their specific situation. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
