Think of valuation first when writing buy-sell agreements

Description

Abstract: Buy-sell agreements protect business owners from unexpected events. They can also be important when owners disagree and want to sell their interests — or buy out a difficult partner. Too often valuation issues take the backseat to legal issues, leading to irreconcilable differences when the agreement comes into play. Whether owners are deciding on a current buyout price, purchasing insurance coverage for key shareholders or planning future buyout terms, an accurate valuation is imperative. This article provides a definition of value and looks at the three valuation methods used. It also notes the importance of updating the agreement over time.