Business Sale Cost Calculator

Calculate every cost you will incur when selling your business. This tool breaks down broker commissions, legal fees, accounting costs, transfer taxes, lease assignment fees, inventory adjustments, and transition period expenses so you know the total cost of selling before you list.

Sale Price

$

Professional Fees

%

Typical range: 8% to 12%

$

Attorney fees: $5,000 to $25,000

$

CPA and tax planning: $3,000 to $10,000

$

Escrow, title, recording: $1,500 to $5,000

Transaction Costs

$

Varies by state and locality

$

Landlord fee for assigning the lease

$

Cost if actual inventory is less than listed value at closing

Transition & Other Costs

Typical: 4 to 12 weeks

$

Opportunity cost if unpaid during transition

$

UCC filings, notary, document preparation, etc.

Quick Tips

  • Total selling costs typically run 12% to 20% of the sale price
  • Broker commissions are the largest single cost at 8% to 12%
  • Legal fees range from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on deal complexity
  • Budget $3,000 to $10,000 for accounting and tax advisory
  • Training and transition support can take 30 to 90 days

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How to Use This Calculator

Enter your expected sale price, then fill in each cost category: broker commission percentage, legal fees, accounting and tax advisory fees, escrow and closing fees, transfer taxes, lease assignment costs, inventory adjustment costs, and transition period expenses. The calculator totals every line item, shows costs as both dollar amounts and percentages of the sale price, and gives you a complete picture of what selling will cost. Compare these costs against your expected sale price to make sure the deal makes financial sense before you commit to listing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Get expert advice on structuring your sale to reduce costs and maximize your take home proceeds. Free consultation.

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