Whether you're ready to sell this year or preparing for a potential exit down the road, understanding what drives business value is critical. And spoiler alert: It’s not just about your revenue.

A patent is a government-issued legal right that grants an inventor or assignee exclusive rights to make, use, sell, or license an invention for a defined period of time, typically 20 years. In the context of selling a business, patents are more than just intellectual property—they are tangible assets that can significantly impact valuation, negotiating leverage, and buyer interest.

When buyers look at your business, they’re not just buying your brand or your client list. They’re buying your systems—or at least, they hope you have some. The more your business can function without your daily input, the more valuable it becomes.

Selling your business is a journey, not an event. A structured timeline helps you stay on track, manage expectations, and maximize value. Here’s a deep dive into each phase of “The Listing Timeline,” with best practices and actionable insights.