How to Write a Good Business For Sale Ad
A well written business for sale ad is the first step in getting potential buyers and could make or break a business for sale campaign. It is important to get it right.
This article provides some tips for writing good business advertisements and what to include in them.
7 Tips For Writing an Effective Business For Sale Ad
Use a Compelling Headline
A good business for sale ad must catch the reader’s attention. This can be done by a compelling headline – it should make a promise to the reader on what they will gain from reading more on the advert.
The headline needs to grab attention and at the same time tell readers what kind of business is being sold.
The following are some good example headlines:
“Unique business for sale – rare opportunity for an ambitious entrepreneur.”
“Top quality garden furniture business up for sale in prime location.”
Include a Good Summary
A summary should really get people interested in the business and generates a positive first impression.
It is ideal to sell the benefits of your business such as location, special features or product range.
It should also include details on what makes your business stand out from the rest of competitors in the market.
Don't Give Away Your Business Name or Identity
The ad should grab attention, but don’t give your business away. If a reader is interested in knowing more they will contact you. You can include your phone number or email address at the end of the ad for those wanting information after viewing it.
Include a Price
It is important to include the price in your business for sale advertisement. This is useful for potential buyers to get an idea of what you are willing to sell your business for.
Leaving out the price and opting to put the listing up as an expression of interest is generally not recommended. Some buyers will likely be turned off instantly from an ad that does not include a price as they assume the seller has an unrealistic expectation or aren’t really serious about selling.
Using expression of interest without advertising a price only works in very rare circumstances and in business for sale industries where the amount of buyers looking for a business outstrips the businesses on the market (sellers market).
Include a Location
It is important to include the location of the business in your business for sale advertisement. This lets potential buyers know where you are located. Some may not be interested if your location is too far from them and you’ll be wasting your time by getting enquiries from these buyers.
It’s recommended you use the local council area instead of exact suburb eg. Hills District and not Castle Hill. This will make it harder for buyers guess your business before they make enquiry.
Include a Photo
“A picture says more than a thousand words” – this is especially true when it comes to selling your business. You are probably more likely to get interested buyers if you include a picture of the inside and outside of the business.
It’s recommended that you include photos taken by yourself, or friends or family members who have visited your business so they can show accurate depictions of the actual business being advertised.
Have a Call to Action
Include a call to action at the end of your business for sale advertisement. This is usually something that prompts buyers into wanting to find out more. It can be something like “Contact Us for More Information” or “Call us now – Expressions of Interest are Welcome”.
