Whether it’s a suburban manufacturer or the Australian subsidiary of a global enterprise, a purchase or sale of a business is likely to be one of your most important transactions ever.

Knowing the risks to you and your particular business or the target can make the difference between a long, expensive process, or a smooth and efficient transaction with the right outcome at the right time.

If you’re selling, what you do before the deal can be almost as important as the deal itself.

It might be making sure your business is structured correctly, you’re ready for due diligence, your IP is properly owned and registered or you’ve thought of all the tax angles. If you’re buying, it’s making sure you’re not only getting what you’re paying for at the right price, but it’s what you actually need and the sale will complete.

It’s all about the opportunity, risk and price – and getting practical advice that will help you make the right decisions as well as the attention to detail to get the right outcome from the deal.