Too many founders treat their exit like a fire sale - rushed, reactive, and ultimately undervalued.
But what if you took the scenic route instead?
In my work advising founder-led businesses, I often see exits treated like a checkbox: sell fast, cash out, move on. But the truth is, a well-planned exit - one that unfolds over years, not months - can unlock more value, reduce tax burdens, and leave a lasting legacy.
I recently sat down with Peter Deitz, founder of Grantbook and certified legacy-builder, for an episode of The Cash Rich Exit Podcast. Our conversation drove this point home.
His journey to a cash-rich exit wasn’t fast.
In fact, it took eight years - and every step was intentional.
What Rushing Really Costs you
Selling in a hurry can mean:
- Lower valuations
- Missed tax planning opportunities (hello, capital gains exemption)
- Weak buyer alignment
- Fractured team morale
In Peter’s case, even with careful planning, there were surprises - like realizing too late that he didn’t fully optimize his capital gains exemption due to the business’s structure at the time of sale.
A rushed exit amplifies these risks. When you plan early and exit slowly, you have the space to:
- Clean up your books
- Identify strategic buyers
- Structure the deal to minimize taxes
- Prepare your leadership team for a smooth handoff
What Taking the Scenic Route Looks Like
Peter started preparing for his exit eight years before his final sale.
That time gave him the ability to:
- Develop strong governance and a leadership team
- Explore different sale options, including employee ownership
- Make values-based decisions that prioritized people and mission
This isn’t just about feeling good - it’s about preserving enterprise value.
Buyers pay a premium when they feel confident in the business’s future. And confidence comes from structure, clarity, and alignment.
My Advice to Founders Planning their Exit
If you’re planning to exit in the next five to ten years, here’s what to do now:
- Start working with an advisory team (accountant, lawyer, wealth advisor)
- Get a valuation - know your number
- Identify succession options: internal, external, employee ownership, M&A
- Get clear on your personal wealth goals post-exit
Ready to Map your Scenic Exit?
I'm offering a complimentary one-on-one Wealth Gap Analysis for founders who want to exit rich and leave a legacy.
Let’s assess where you are and build a roadmap for where you want to go.
Connect with me on LinkedIn or reach out via email to schedule your session.
Let’s make sure your exit is as intentional as the business you built.
TTFN - ta-ta for now!
Colleen
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