As summer winds down and the pace of business life picks up, many owners shift from a mid-year rhythm into a sharper, forward-looking mindset. September is often seen as a “reset month” — the moment when strategy, focus, and execution come back into alignment.
For some business leaders, this means re-engaging with growth. For others, it’s about ensuring that a future transition — including the possible sale of the company — is carefully prepared. In fact, September is one of the most strategic times of the year to begin laying the groundwork for a successful exit.
Here are four reasons why.
- Buyers Are Active in Q4
Private equity firms, strategic acquirers, and investors typically like to finalize deals before year-end. Closing in Q4 allows them to deploy capital, lock in tax advantages, and start the new year with fresh acquisitions integrated. That creates a surge of deal activity in the final quarter.
Why it matters for sellers: If you start preparing now, you’ll be ready to capture that momentum. Buyers who are motivated to close quickly will prioritize companies that already have their house in order.
Practical next step: Use September to review your readiness. Do you have reliable financial reporting, a clear growth narrative, and an organized data room? These are table stakes if you want to stand out.
- Strong Financial Storytelling
By early fall, three quarters of financial performance are nearly complete. That gives you robust, year-to-date results to present to potential buyers. A strong Q4 finish can then further enhance valuation and reinforce buyer confidence in your trajectory.
Why it matters for sellers: Buyers don’t just want numbers — they want a story. Demonstrating consistent performance and linking results to strategy shows that your business isn’t just profitable, but also well-managed and forward-looking.
Practical next step: Work with your finance team or advisors to develop a compelling narrative around your results. Show how past performance supports your future growth potential.
- Time to Address Gaps
September also provides a window to fix potential weaknesses before due diligence begins. This might mean cleaning up financials, resolving operational inefficiencies, or strengthening internal controls.
Why it matters for sellers: When buyers uncover gaps in diligence, it can create delays, drive down valuations, or even derail deals. Proactively addressing issues now allows you to control the story and avoid last-minute surprises.
Practical next step: Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes. What red flags would a diligence team uncover? Tackle those now so they don’t become distractions later.
- Positioning for 2025
Not every owner is ready to sell immediately — and that’s fine. Even if your exit is a year (or more) away, September is the perfect time to prepare. By starting now, you’ll ensure your business is in peak shape when you decide to move forward.
Why it matters for sellers: Preparation creates optionality. If market conditions are favorable in early 2025, you’ll be ready to act. If you decide to wait, you’ll still benefit from a stronger, more streamlined operation.
Practical next step: Treat exit preparation like training for a marathon — you build strength, discipline, and systems over time. When the right race appears, you’ll be ready to run it at full speed.
Exit planning isn’t just about finding a buyer — it’s about putting your business in the best possible position to succeed, whether you sell this year, next year, or five years from now. September provides a unique opportunity to align your strategy, sharpen your story, and get ahead of buyer expectations.
If you’re considering a sale, now is the time to take that first step.
Jim Friesen, MBA, CPA, CM&AA
Founder
