01 / The decision and the ownership.
Write down why you need the work, the intended sale timetable and any existing offer. Identify the company, subsidiaries, assets or shareholding involved. Have the share register, articles and relevant shareholder agreement available.
02 / Trading performance.
Gather recent annual accounts and current management figures. Include monthly results where seasonality matters. Explain unusual income, exceptional costs and differences between internal reports and statutory accounts.
03 / The owner’s role.
List responsibilities, working time, remuneration and any connected-party arrangements. Explain which duties would need replacing and what evidence supports the expected cost. Do not assume every owner expense can simply be added back.
04 / Cash, debt and commitments.
Prepare borrowing and shareholder-loan details, cash balances, debtor and stock ageing, creditor information and material lease commitments. Identify assets held outside the company and any security or restrictions that need adviser review.
05 / The future and the offer.
Provide forecasts with their assumptions, customer concentration and relevant contract information. If there is an offer, keep the latest version with any explanation of cash, debt, working capital, deferred payments and conditions.
Share documents after agreeing a suitable channel.
Use the initial form for contact details and general requirements only. Do not upload confidential accounts, identity documents or tax references. We will agree what is needed and how to share it after discussing the engagement.