Business Transition Planning

Most business owners don’t start out thinking about how they will eventually transition out of their business. However, having a plan in place can make a significant difference when the time comes.

Business transition planning helps you prepare for changes such as retirement, selling the business, or transferring ownership to family members or partners. With the right planning, you can reduce stress, avoid any rushed decisions, and protect the long-term value of your company.

Common steps in the transition planning process include gathering important documents, organizing financial statements, creating a clear plan of action, and carrying out that plan with professional guidance. Cooper Norman works alongside you through each step so you are never navigating the process alone.

Business Ownership Disputes

There are instances where disagreements may take place between owners or shareholders, and this can be challenging and emotional. When financial interests are involved, even small misunderstandings can quickly grow into larger problems. An independent business valuation often plays a key role in resolving these disputes fairly and efficiently.

Family-owned and multi-generational businesses may face differences in leadership style, vision, or expectations. These issues can be especially sensitive when family relationships and business decisions overlap. Our team provides objective insight to help keep these conversations productive and focused on the best outcome for the business.

Valuation and buy-out disagreements can also arise when one party wants to sell and another wants to buy. Emotions can make it difficult to agree on a fair price. A professional valuation helps bring clarity to the situation by providing a neutral and well-supported perspective.

Disputes between minority and majority shareholders are another common challenge. Questions around control, compensation, or financial rights can distract from daily operations and slow growth. With an accurate valuation in place, these discussions are more likely to stay focused and less likely to disrupt the business.

Economic Damages and Loss Profits

When a business experiences a disruption, the financial impact can be significant. Economic damages often involve lost profits or unexpected expenses that result from events outside normal operations.

In these situations, a detailed business valuation is often needed to determine what the business would have earned if the disruption had not occurred. Our team reviews financial records and supporting documentation to reach accurate conclusions that can hold up under legal review when necessary. Examples of economic damages may include property damage, business interruptions, unsatisfactory performance of goods or services, or income loss due to unforeseen closures or disasters.

Merger & Acquisition

Mergers and acquisitions can be complex and high-stakes transactions. A merger typically combines two companies into one new entity, while an acquisition involves one company purchasing another. In either case, understanding the true value of the business is critical.

Cooper Norman provides valuation support throughout the merger or acquisition process to help ensure smoother transitions and stronger negotiating positions. Our involvement helps businesses move forward with clarity and confidence while working toward the best possible outcome.

Buy/Sell Due Diligence

Due diligence is the process of closely reviewing a business’s financial information before a sale or purchase. This step helps buyers understand what they are investing in and gives sellers the opportunity to present their business clearly and accurately.

Having an outside professional conduct due diligence adds credibility and objectivity to the process. It also reduces the burden on business owners who are still managing day-to-day operations. Our team helps identify potential concerns, highlight strengths, and prepare you for questions that may arise during negotiations.

Industries We Commonly Work With

Cooper Norman works with a wide range of businesses across Idaho, and we understand that each industry comes with its own financial considerations. Our experience allows us to tailor valuations to reflect your industry-specific risks, opportunities, and operating structures. We commonly provide valuation services for the following industries:

• Agricultural business valuation
• Construction business valuation
• Dental practice valuation
• Healthcare business valuation

Our familiarity with these industries helps ensure each valuation is accurate and aligned with real-world business conditions.

Why you should Choose Cooper Norman for Business Valuation

Cooper Norman is a trusted name in Idaho. We have been around for more than 60 years, and have worked hard to build a name we are proud of. We are confident in our ability to serve you and your business. Cooper Norman employs a wide variety of people with different specialties. We are confident we can find a professional that can help meet your specific needs. Our business valuation team has the tools to help you through all of your business needs and transitions.