Make the records easier for a buyer to review
Financial records often need reconciliation, cleanup, and documentation before a buyer can evaluate them efficiently. Backline CFO can review the current condition of the books, recommend priorities, and complete the work included in the agreed scope.
Choose the preparation level that fits
Readiness Any size · Early planning $1,500–$2,500 1 week
- High-level review of the current financial records
- Identification of the most material preparation issues
- Written list of recommended work and priorities
Core Prep Up to $2.5M revenue $5,000–$9,000 3–4 weeks
- Reconciliation and cleanup of three years of profit-and-loss statements and balance sheets
- Documentation supporting proposed owner adjustments and add-backs
- Financial package organized for buyer review
Standard Prep $2.5M–$5M revenue $9,000–$15,000 4–6 weeks
- Core preparation at monthly-level detail
- Working capital analysis and a suggested target
- Review and cleanup of accounts receivable and accounts payable
Complete Prep $5M–$10M revenue $15,000–$25,000 6–8 weeks
- EBITDA bridge with supporting documentation
- Written summary of key financial adjustments and preparation work
- Package organized for a broker, M&A advisor, or buyer
How the engagement works
Initial call
Discuss the business, expected sale timing, records available, and preparation already completed. Cole confirms the proposed scope, fee range, timing, and document list.
Send the records
Provide the financial statements, tax returns, bank records, and other documents included in the agreed scope.
Preparation work
Cole completes the review, cleanup, reconciliation, and documentation included in the engagement.
Final package and review
Receive the agreed financial package and review completed work, remaining limitations, and any items that still require attention.
Discuss sale preparation with Cole
The initial call is free. Cole will recommend a scope after learning about the business, the records, and the expected sale timeline.