A sale can involve several advisers, each with a different role and charging arrangement. A useful comparison starts with the work and the written engagement terms.
Compare the scope.
Clarify who handles buyer introductions, negotiation, legal documents, tax advice, financial diligence and completion accounts. Identify gaps and overlaps between advisers.
Read the charging terms.
A broker’s success fee, a retainer and legal fees are different charges. Check when each becomes payable, what it is calculated on, and whether it applies to deferred or conditional consideration.
Ask about changes and expenses.
Confirm how additional work is approved, whether outside specialists are included and how third-party expenses are charged. Ask what happens if the proposed sale does not complete or the engagement ends.
Get a written proposal.
There is no universal fee for a business sale. Compare proposals against the actual scope and your transaction, rather than relying on an unsupported percentage or a headline estimate. Your accountant and lawyer can help identify the questions that matter.