Bainbridge Sell Advisory 

Why Buyers and Sellers Need Different Advisors

Every transaction has two sides. Sellers want to maximize value. Buyers want a good deal. That’s why sell-side advisory services and buy-side advisory services exist.

On the sell side, advisors help owners prepare for sale. They analyze financials, highlight strengths, and create materials that attract interest. Their role is to generate competition and negotiate the strongest terms. On the buy side, advisors look outward. They find acquisition targets, approach owners confidentially, and test whether companies are a good fit.

Consider an industrial services firm looking to expand. A buy-side advisor identifies potential targets and approaches them. At the same time, a different company in healthcare might hire a sell-side advisor to prepare for sale. Each advisor is advocating for their client’s unique goals.

The process works best when both roles are clearly defined. Sellers gain protection and value. Buyers gain opportunities and insight.