How it works
How Vendi helps.
We handle the entire sales process, from valuation to negotiation, so you don’t have to.
With expert, objective guidance, we keep emotions from clouding strategic decisions. This allows you to stay focused on running your business, maintaining strong performance throughout the sale.
Business Info & Appraisal
Vendor provides details, Vendi conducts valuation.
Agreement & Fee
Vendor signs agency agreement, pays marketing fee.
Info Gathering
Vendi collects additional details for sale and due diligence.
Marketing Prep
Agency creates materials, vendor approves.
Campaign & Inquiries
Marketing launches, agency handles buyer interest.
Buyer Meetings & Info
Buyers sign confidentiality agreement, receive details.
Offer & Financing
Support with conditional offer and funding.
Deposit & Due Diligence
Buyer pays refundable deposit, due diligence begins.
Legal Review
Guidance through legal checks.
Finalise Sale
Agreement confirmed once conditions are met.
Settlement & Transition
Complete sale, smooth handover.
Frequently Asked Questions.
How much is my business worth?
We offer a free, no-obligation market appraisal. Just fill out the form below, and we will get in touch with you shortly to help you work out the value of your business.
Can my business be sold?
Most businesses can be sold if they are priced right and marketed properly. In our view, a great business only fails to sell due to two factors: poor marketing or incorrect pricing.
We always recommend getting a thorough market appraisal before you list your business. If you’re unsure, don’t worry—our
brokers can provide a free appraisal to get you started.
How long does it take to sell a business?
The timeframe can vary based on factors such as effective marketing strategies, thorough preparation, and accurate pricing. Some businesses may sell more quickly, while others might take longer. It’s essential to ensure your business is
well-prepared and priced competitively to attract potential buyers.
At Vendi, we aim to have your business under offer within 75 days of listing, though this is an average and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your business.
Ultimately, the time it takes to sell your business will depend on how well it’s positioned in the market and how effectively it’s marketed to potential buyers.
When is the best time to sell my business?
Timing really does matter. While selling during a peak period could potentially increase your sale price, it’s also important to consider your personal situation and long-term goals. Preparing your business ahead of time and being strategic about when to sell can make a huge difference.
How do I sell my business?
You can sell your business privately or work with a licensed agent like a business broker. The process includes preparing your business, appraisals, marketing, negotiating, and transferring ownership, which can seem overwhelming.
That’s where a business broker comes in to make everything easier for you!
Why should I use a business broker to sell my business?
A business broker is a great resource to help make sure your business gets the attention it deserves. They bring industry knowledge, help you present your business in the best light, and connect you with reputable buyers, ultimately increasing the chances of getting competitive offers.
Why should I list my business with Vendi?
At Vendi, we have years of experience selling businesses across New Zealand.
Our brokers specialize in specific industries, so we truly understand your business and can connect you with the right buyers who are looking for exactly what you offer.
What types of businesses do you sell?
We handle all kinds of businesses, from sole traders and partnerships to franchises and limited companies. Whether it’s in hospitality, manufacturing, accommodation, fitness, or other industries, we’re here to help you sell. And we make sure your information stays confidential throughout the entire process.
How do you find the right buyer?
Our team has tons of experience in business sales, and we know how to market your business in the right places and to the right people. We have a large network of buyers actively looking for opportunities, which makes it easier to connect with the right fit for your business.
Can my accountant sell my business?
Accountants are great at preparing financial documents, managing taxes, and providing valuable insights into the financial health of your business. However, they typically don’t specialize in marketing and sales. That’s where a business broker steps in.
With our expertise in sales and marketing, we’ll help you get the best price and make the sale process smooth. Just like you’d rely on a real estate agent to sell your home, using a business broker is a safer and more effective way to sell your business.
How will I be updated during the selling process?
Our brokers will keep you updated every step of the way, through phone calls and emails. We’ll always work in your best interests, making sure you’re informed while keeping your business details private.
Where will my business be advertised?
We know how important it is to give your business the right exposure. That’s why, as part of our marketing packages, we’ll advertise your business on vendi.co.nz, trademe.co.nz, bizbuysell.co.nz, and realestate.co.nz.
Plus, we’ll enhance your visibility through targeted Google SEO and social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Why doesn’t Vendi advertise in the paper?
Studies show that most buyers now search for businesses online rather than in print. With our innovative technology and targeted marketing strategies, we can reach thousands more potential buyers where they’re actively looking for businesses.
This means your business gets more exposure, more views, and ideally, more interested buyers. In our view, print advertising is more effective for promoting business sales agencies, rather than the businesses themselves.
What are the business broker fees?
Our fees are success-based, meaning we only get paid when your business sells. The cost depends on the value of your business and any specific factors that might come into play during the sale. We keep everything clear and transparent from the start, so you’ll always know what to expect.
The only upfront cost to list your business is the marketing fee, which generally ranges from $990 to $2990 + GST, depending on the package you choose. When we provide an appraisal, we’ll also include the commission rate in the proposal.
I’ve received a lower broker fee from another agency—what should I consider before deciding?
The cheapest broker fee doesn’t always deliver the best result. Focus on what you’ll take home after the sale and commission. An experienced broker is more likely to achieve a higher sale price, while a lower-cost broker may prioritize speed, potentially cutting corners. A good broker follows a proven process, leveraging experience, resources, support, and technology to ensure a smooth and successful sale.
Trust your instincts when choosing a broker and take note of the quality of the discussions and advice you’ve received during the appraisal process. Pay close attention to their communication style and the professionalism of their documentation, as these are strong indicators of the level of service you can expect throughout the entire selling journey. Additionally, this gives insight into the experience potential buyers will have when interacting with the broker. A smooth, professional experience for buyers can ultimately help secure a higher sale price. Keep in mind that it’s not just about how well you get along with the broker—it’s about their ability to represent you and your business in the best possible light, ensuring a successful sale
Another agency has valued my business higher than yours— what factors should I consider before making a decision?
Some brokers may over-value a business to win the listing, knowing the price will need to be reduced later, which can lead to a stressful experience. Don’t be swayed by the highest figure. An experienced broker will explain how they plan to achieve the best price with clear, solid reasoning.
There are various strategies to ensure your business is sold for its maximum value the first time, preventing sellers from leaving money on the table. On the flip side, some brokers may undervalue your business to secure a quick sale for a fast commission. What truly matters is the quality of the appraisal and the data that supports it.
How do you protect my businesses information?
At Vendi, safeguarding your business information is a top priority. We take a structured approach to releasing details, ensuring both the business and seller are protected throughout the sale process.
- Initial Information: General business details are shared only after a signed confidentiality agreement.
- Due Diligence Stage: More sensitive information is provided once an offer has been accepted, ideally alongside a refundable deposit to demonstrate the buyer’s commitment.
- Staged Information Release: Even during due diligence, we carefully manage when key details are shared. For example, introductions to staff are best left until all conditions—especially finance—are satisfied.
This careful, staged approach helps minimize risk while ensuring a smooth and secure sale process.
What information will I need to provide?
When you’re ready to sell, we’ll make gathering your business information simple and stress-free. If preferred, we can work directly with your accountant or advisor—it’s entirely up to you. Below is a list of some of the key information we’ll need.
- Last year’s Profit & Loss Statement (internal or accountant-prepared)
- Estimated stock value (PC Sum)
- Book value of plant & equipment (replacement cost if available)
- 2–5 years of full financial accounts (3 years is usually sufficient)
- Current internal accounts up to the latest month
- Financial forecast (if available) with explanations for any expected changes
- Detailed plant & equipment list (indicate any items you wish to retain)
- Copy of the current lease and any equipment lease agreements
- List of key employee’s roles and employment agreements (employee’s details can be withheld to protect their privacy)
- A questionnaire supplied by Vendi and completed by the business owner
- Any other industry specific information that may be required.
What is included in the sale?
Sellers often ask whether the sale price includes assets and equipment or if these are paid for separately.
In most cases, the sale price includes all necessary assets and equipment required to operate the business. However, if certain items are excluded or need to be negotiated separately, this should be clearly outlined from the start. Buyers will want to know exactly what they are buying before they make an offer. A complete list of business assets is required.
We always ensure transparency so both sellers and buyers understand exactly what’s included in the sale.
Will buyers pay for potential?
Many business owners hope to sell based on future potential, but buyers typically pay for proven results, not just ideas. A business without a solid revenue stream holds little value in most buyers’ eyes.
To attract serious interest, pricing must reflect the business’s actual performance—buyers might have many options and are looking for real value.
Do buyers pay for past performance?
Past success has little impact on a business’s sale price—buyers focus on recent performance (typically the last 12 months) and future sustainability, though a strong track record can help demonstrate potential.
While some sellers may believe a business just needs “a little work” to regain past success, buyers won’t pay a premium for something that needs fixing. However, businesses with solid current performance and stable cash flow can command higher prices, as they present lower risk to buyers.
Should you be upfront from the start?
Absolutely. The truth will always come out, so it’s best to be upfront from the beginning. Experienced buyers know no business is perfect—they expect both strengths and challenges.
Being honest early prevents deals from falling apart during due diligence and avoids wasting time. Surprises can break trust, causing buyers to walk away. If there’s a challenge, it’s better to disclose it upfront so we can find the right buyer who sees the opportunity, not just the obstacle.
How do i deal with tyre kickers and sharks?
Leave that to us! Selling a business attracts all kinds of buyers—some serious, others just curious. We handle the dreamers, tyre-kickers, and sharks so you don’t have to.
From “wannabe buyers” who aren’t financially ready to the “sharks” looking for desperate sellers, we’ve seen it all. That’s why it’s crucial to secure the right buyer—one who values your business properly.
As your broker, we filter out the time-wasters so you can stay focused on running your business while we find genuine buyers.
