[EP 310] Restructuring Before a Sale: What Most Businesses Get Wrong

[EP 310] Restructuring Before a Sale: What Most Businesses Get Wrong In this first part of our two-part series, host Joanna Oakey is joined by Brett Goodyer from Business Valuations Online to explore one of the most overlooked drivers of a smooth business sale: getting the structure right early. Drawing on Brett’s experience in valuations, forensic accounting and insolvency, this conversation looks at what really happens behind the scenes when businesses aren’t set up properly before a transaction — and why those issues often only surface when it’s too late to easily fix them. In this episode (Part 1 of our 2-part series), we cover: • Why early structuring decisions can have lasting consequences at sale time • The difference between proactive and reactive advice — and why timing matters • How a lack of exit readiness creates unnecessary friction in transactions • The role of advisers in identifying and addressing issues early • Real-world examples of where structure has helped — or hindered — a sale Whether you’re thinking about selling down the track or already working with clients in this space, this episode offers a practical look at how better planning early on can lead to smoother outcomes later. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction 02:48 Why structure trips up a sale (complexity + tax) 04:06 Real-world examples: NDIS, Peter & Ted's restructures gone wrong 11:51 Poll: how often do you review client structures? 13:37 Building structure checks into annual reviews 15:52 Example: merging two businesses 21:08 The mechanics: target structure, valuation, docs, implementation 30:22 Common pitfalls & audience Q&A 32:42 The opportunity for accountants + wrap-up ** Partner with us | If you’d like to know more about becoming a referring partner, unlocking a library of on demand training, checklists and exclusive live events (including our AI workshops), send an email to [email protected] . ** Free Consultation | If you’re considering an acquisition or an exit that includes an earnout, get in touch with our team for a free consultation to discuss your upcoming transaction. Say hello at [email protected] we’d love to help. ** SUBSCRIBE | Get Deal Room insights delivered direct to your inbox when they're released. Head to https://aspectlegal.lpages.co/the-dea... and we'll be in touch.