Business Valuation

Our team uses the knowledge and experience gained through many years of experience and education to offer business valuation services on Atlanta business enterprises. The approaches we use are consistent in their use of core business valuation methodologies, report writing standards, and case law support whether you need a calculation of value or a full written appraisal. Client objectives we support:

Buy/Sell Transaction Advisory (Controlling/Minority Interest)
Exit Strategy and Planning
Litigation Support and Expert Witness
Corporate Acquisition Consulting

NACVA

We have extensive Industry Experience in Technology, Real Estate, Engineering, Construction, and Restaurants/Franchise Operations

Do you need a Certified Valuation Analyst to determine your business or real estate property value in Atlanta, GA or Sandy Springs, GA or any surrounding cities in Georgia? Call the experts at Burns Valuation Consulting to request more information about our small, medium and large business valuation services in Atlanta, GA.

When you hire my firm, you get valuation expertise. As holder of the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation; and member of National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA), I understand the economic drivers of value. I have over 20 years of experience business planning and valuation. I will work with you (and your attorney or client) and my team of alliance partners to be sure that the definition of value used conforms to the financial and legal requirements surrounding specific circumstances.

The approaches we use to value business enterprises are:

Income Based - Capitalization, Discounted Cash Flow
This is the one I use most often. First, I determine the normalized income of the company - costs such as salaries, one-time events, and discretionary expenses are adjusted. This normalized income is capitalized to determine the value of the business. The capitalization rate is based on inherent risks (Market, Industry, Business-Specific) in achieving these cash flows going forward.
Market Based - Comparable Transaction, Market Multiples.
Under this method, I look at comparable businesses in the same market that have sold. Multiples are determined to apply to the subject company. Data availability and suitability can be a problem but a good analyst can overcome. Sometimes this is given less weight in a valuation for this reason.
Asset Based - Market vs. Book Value
Fundamentally, this is the total of business assets minus liabilities. Tangible assets are valued based on their replacement cost or market values. Intangible assets such as intellectual property are considered via their cash flow. Intangible assets such as goodwill can be factored in separately. This is done through an excess earnings method which calculates earnings that exceed normal rate of return of assets for the industry.

Please give me a call to discuss your specific project in more detail at 770-380-2406

FAQs

What is business exit planning, and who needs it?

Business exit planning is a process that helps a business owner prepare to leave or retire from their business. It’s like having a plan before a big trip. You figure out where you're going, how to get there, and what you'll need to get there. This kind of planning helps make sure the business stays strong and the owner leaves with the money and results they want.

Exit planning isn’t just for big companies. It’s for anyone who owns a business—whether it’s a small plumbing company, a family-run shop, or a bigger local operation. Even if you think you’ll run your business forever, it’s still smart to have a plan just in case life throws you a curveball.

When should I start planning my business exit?

The best time to start planning your business exit is now—even if you’re not planning to leave for years. Exit planning is most effective when there’s ample time to make informed decisions and avoid surprises.

Most experts say to start at least five years before you think you’ll leave the business. Waiting too long could lead to rushed choices and lower business value.

What are the key steps in the exit planning process?

Here are some key steps most business owners follow:

Set clear goals – Decide when you want to exit and what you want to achieve from it.
Know your business’s value – Find out what your business is worth.
Get your finances ready – Ensure your books are accurate and your taxes are up to date.
Build a strong team – This includes employees, advisors, and maybe a new leader.
Choose your exit path – Will you sell, pass it to family, or keep earning income another way?
Plan for taxes – Avoid surprises by working with a tax expert.
Put it all in writing – Make a written plan that you can follow step by step.

How does exit planning affect business valuation?

Exit planning can raise the value of your business. When buyers or new leaders assess your company, they want to see that it operates smoothly, has strong financials, and won’t falter if you leave. A solid plan shows them that.

Without a plan, the value may decline because the business relies too heavily on the owner or lacks clear direction and objectives.

Can I exit my business without selling it?

Yes, you can exit without selling. Some business owners choose to:

Pass the business to family members
Give leadership to trusted employees
Step back and collect income while someone else runs it

These options let you keep the business in the family or your community while still taking a step back from daily work. However, even if you don’t sell, you still need a plan to ensure a smooth transition and to prepare the new leaders.

What role do taxes play in exit planning?

Taxes can have a big impact on how much money you walk away with. If you sell your business, you may have to pay capital gains tax. If you give it to family, there might be gift or estate tax issues.

That’s why it’s crucial to plan. A tax expert can help you find ways to lower the tax burden, such as:

Spreading payments out over time
Setting up trusts or other legal tools
Structuring the sale in a tax-friendly way

How do I transition leadership or ownership smoothly?

Start early and be open. Here are a few steps to help:

Pick the right person – Choose someone who knows the business and can lead well.
Train them – Teach them how the business runs and what to expect.
Share the plan – Communicate with your team and customers so they are aware of what’s to come.
Stick around for a while – Stay involved during the change to support the new leader.

What happens if I don’t have an exit strategy?

Without an exit plan, your business may struggle when you’re ready to leave. Problems can include:

Lower business value
Confused employees or customers
More stress for your family
Missed chances to save on taxes
A rushed or forced sale

An exit plan protects the business you worked hard to build.