Why Every Business Sale Needs a Lawyer (and an Accountant)

If you’ve been thinking about buying or selling a business in 2025, you’re not the only one. The first few months of the year have brought promising signs for business owners planning an exit and entrepreneurs looking for their next opportunity. With a stabilising economy, anticipated interest rate cuts, and a regulatory shake-up coming in 2026, now could be an ideal time to act.

While timing and preparation are critical, having the right team in your corner can make all the difference. At Ascent Accountants, we regularly work with businesses navigating sales and acquisitions — and one of the smartest moves you can make is bringing a lawyer into the process early.

What’s Happening in the Market?

Three things are happening — a stabilising economy (finally!), future regulatory changes, and strong buyer interest.

• A stabilising economy. Lower inflation and the possibility of interest rate cuts are making business acquisitions more accessible. This means a broader pool of qualified buyers for sellers, and more attractive financing for buyers.
• Regulatory changes ahead. New business transfer regulations will roll out in January 2026. Completing a transaction before then could save time and reduce complexity for both parties.
• Strong buyer interest. Private investors and cashed-up buyers are actively seeking opportunities. If you’re selling, this could mean multiple offers. If you’re buying, there are great businesses available across various industries.

How a Lawyer can help.

Whether you’re buying or selling, legal advice isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

• Transaction support. A lawyer can guide you from initial negotiations through to final settlement, helping draft and review contracts, flagging critical clauses, and ensuring everyone understands their rights and responsibilities.
• Risk assessment. Before you commit to anything, a Lawyer can help assess any legal, financial, or operational risks that may be buried in the business’s paperwork. This protects you from costly surprises down the line.
• Regulatory guidance. With changes on the horizon, it’s crucial to ensure your transaction complies with current laws while preparing for what’s next. A Lawyer stays across these developments so you don’t have to.
• Strategic insight. A Lawyer who understands business transactions (not all have expertise in this area) can offer practical advice beyond the legal paperwork—like how to structure the deal, manage handovers, or handle staff transitions.

Where Ascent Accountants come in.

Obviously, a business sale is as much a financial transaction as it is a legal one. Our team at Ascent Accountants helps clients:

• Prepare and present accurate financials.
• Conduct valuations to ensure a fair price.
• Structure deals in a tax-effective way.
• Liaise with legal professionals to streamline the process.

We often work hand-in-hand with lawyers to give our clients a seamless experience — ensuring the financial and legal elements of the sale are aligned.

Thinking of buying or selling a business in 2025?

Now’s the time to get the right advice. Ascent Accountants can help you understand your numbers, evaluate opportunities, and connect you with experienced legal professionals to support your journey.



Get in touch with us today to plan your next move with confidence, or contact Vitalis Legal directly.