Building a business and selling one are two very different challenges.
In this episode of In The Harbor, Jason Johns and Sean Ritchlin sit down with Khaled Azar, founder of Livmo M&A, to talk about what it takes to reach the closing table. Khaled has launched 14 ventures and sold a software company of his own. Today, he helps founders prepare for an exit.
Khaled says roughly 80% of companies that try to sell never close. He explains how owner expectations and partner alignment can shape the outcome, and why the headline purchase price is only part of the deal. Cash, seller financing, earnouts, and rollover equity can mean very different results for a seller.
The conversation also covers who is buying founder-owned businesses, selling software in the AI era, and keeping operations on track while a sale is underway. Customer churn, contracts, and change-of-control clauses all enter the discussion.
Thinking about selling now or a few years from now? Start with a clearer picture of what buyers look for and what an exit could mean for you.