What role does due diligence play in facilitating a successful business sale?

Lee Henry, a distinguished business sales expert based in Georgia, combines his robust work ethic, rooted in his upbringing on a dairy farm, with a comprehensive understanding of multiple trades to guide business owners in maximizing the value of their companies. He believes that true success in business sales comes from diligence and an unwavering commitment to driving multiples of value, rather than focusing solely on revenue or profit. Henry stresses the importance of thorough sell-side diligence and often advises sellers to reconsider their motivations to ensure they are genuinely prepared for the emotional journey of selling their business, including securing the support of their spouses and planning for life post-sale. Through strategic planning, meticulous negotiation, and an emphasis on legacy building, Lee aims to elevate Main Street businesses to Wall Street standards, ultimately ensuring prosperity for current and future generations.

Key Takeaways

• Seek legal counsel for business structuring and asset protection
• Start planning early and run businesses with purpose for a successful exit
• Conduct thorough due diligence to prevent buyer fatigue and ensure a successful sale
• Negotiate multiple offers through a letter of intent phase to save on transaction costs
• Balance emotions and finances in business sales for a smooth transition
• Enhance business value through purpose-driven strategies and thorough sell-side diligence
• Consolidate small businesses to increase valuation and leave a lasting legacy

Connect with Lee Henry:

https://www.goldenshieldessentials.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-henry-030a6882/

Connect with Mike Bascom:

https://bascomlaw.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebascom/

Why is collaborative planning essential in estate planning?

Attorney Mike Bascom brings an unparalleled level of insight to estate planning by blending deep legal specialization with a "problem prevention" philosophy that treats wealth as more than just numbers—it’s about values and peace of mind. Licensed in both Georgia and Florida and admitted to the U.S. Tax Court, Mike’s expertise spans the entire spectrum of asset protection, from revocable living trusts and LLCs to complex Medicaid eligibility and Veteran’s benefits. His background as a three-term Chairman for the Georgia Forum of the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys underscores his leadership in the field. Whether he is helping a small business owner navigate taxation or assisting a young family in securing their children's future, Mike’s approach is rooted in providing strategic, caring solutions that minimize government interference and maximize a client's control over their legacy.

Key Takeaways

• Estate planning covers three crucial time periods: when alive and healthy, if incapacitated, and upon death.
• Collaborative Planning involves working together with clients, attorneys, and advisors to create successful estate plans.
• Bascom Law's mission involves creating estate plans that address a client's wishes with a holistic approach.
• Having an estate plan documented in writing is crucial to ensure it effectively carries out the client's wishes.
• The supportive and appreciative relationship between Brad and Mike is highlighted in their podcast interactions.

Connect with Brad Bascom:

https://bascomlaw.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-b-056400104/

Connect with Mike Bascom:

https://bascomlaw.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebascom/

Behind every successful plan is a team of visionaries—leaders who bring clarity, strategy, and experience to the table.

Welcome to Legacy Blueprint: Plan It Forward, the podcast that showcases the thought leaders shaping the future of wealth, estate, and financial planning.

Hosted by estate planning attorney Mike Bascom, each episode highlights conversations with industry experts—from advisors and strategists to CPAs and attorneys—sharing the insights that protect families, grow wealth, and help secure brighter futures.

This isn’t just about money—it’s about collaboration, leadership, and the wisdom of those who guide us forward.

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