Zielonka Financial Services LLC

(888) 967-1040

Estate Read Time: 3 min

What is the Value of Your Business?

In the second quarter of 2021, more than 2,000 small businesses were sold. The median sale price was roughly $320,000, up 12% from the same time last year.1

As a business owner, ascertaining the value of your business is important for a variety of reasons, including business succession, estate tax estimates, or qualifying for a loan.

There are a number of valuation techniques, ranging from the simple to the very complex. Outlined below are three different approaches to valuing a business.

  1. Asset Based: Calculates the value of all tangible and intangible assets held by the business. This approach ignores the future earning potential of the company. Thus, a pure asset-based valuation model is often used for companies that are bankrupt or looking to liquidate.
  2. Earnings Based: Seeks to arrive at a business’ value by applying a multiple to normalized earnings, i.e., earnings adjusted to subtract owner’s compensation and related expenses. The multiplier can vary substantially, depending upon the industry and the outlook for the business.
  3. Market Based: Compares the business to recent sales of similar companies.

Business valuation is not just a formulaic exercise. For instance, there is a value to the business of being a “going concern” as opposed to the start-up alternative. Ownership percentage will also matter; purchasing a minority share that has limited control may result in a discount to the actual value. The prospects for the business can impact its value. A greater premium will likely apply to a company engaged in a leading-edge technology than it would to one involved in a mature market.

Valuing a small business is not an exact science. Some aspects of the valuation may be debatable (e.g., the remaining life expectancy of a machine), while other aspects may be positively subjective (e.g., the value of the company’s reputation).

Willing Seller & Buyer

The true value of anything can only be determined when a willing seller and a willing buyer agree on a price of exchange. As a consequence, any valuation exercise may yield only a rough estimate.

Before moving forward with a business valuation, consider working with legal and tax professionals who are familiar with the process. Also, a qualified business appraiser may be able to offer some valuable insight.

1. BizBuySell.com, 2021

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Share |
 

Related Content

When to Self-Insure

When to Self-Insure

Choosing to bear the financial burden of an adverse event is called self-insuring. Do you know what that entails?

Consider Keeping Your Life Insurance When You Retire

Consider Keeping Your Life Insurance When You Retire

Reasons to retain your coverage into your retirement years.

The Power of Compound Interest

The Power of Compound Interest

Learn how to harness the power of compound interest for your investments.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Making a Charitable Contribution

There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.

Protecting Your Business from the Loss of a Key Person

Business owners may be able to protect themselves from the financial consequences of losing a key employee.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio

Over time, different investments' performances can shift a portfolio’s intent and risk profile. Rebalancing may be critical.

View all articles

Comparing Investments

This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.

Estimate Your RMD

Help determine the required minimum distribution from an IRA or other qualified retirement plan.

What Is My Current Net Worth?

Use this calculator to estimate your net worth by adding up your assets and subtracting your liabilities.

View all calculators

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

The importance of life insurance, how it works, and how much coverage you need.

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

Exit Strategies of the Rich and Famous

Estate conservation is too important to put off. Do you have a smart exit strategy?

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

View all videos