By: Jay Feldman

Brokers tend to rush when selling a business, but not at Vanla Group. Here, the experience of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) is always personal. An expert team helps each founder exit their business on their own terms and with respect to the legacy they’ve created.

Honoring a Founder’s Values and Vision in Every Sale

Many M&A scenarios push owners to accept the quickest offer. It’s a pressure that leaves founders overwhelmed and uncertain. 

By contrast, Vanla Group takes time to understand each business owner’s values and vision. Armed with that insight, they can make sure that buyers, deal terms, and exit strategies all align with what matters most to each founder.

 “Why do we offer a different approach?” asks Paul Cheetham, Founder and CEO of Vanla Group. “Because I am a founder who knows firsthand the emotional complexities you face as a business owner during an exit.”

Cheetham’s IT career honed his analytical mindset, and he gained valuable experience advising clients as a Certified Financial Planner at BMO Private Banking. He is also a Certified Business Appraiser and a graduate of Harvard Business School.

However, what really made the difference for Cheetham was first-hand experience. While studying at Harvard, he was inspired to purchase his first company. This experience launched a profound realization. After working through the buying process with a broker, he recognized he could master it himself. Three years later, he successfully sold that business on his own and then embarked on a new path as a broker and certified business appraiser.

Today, Cheetham leverages his unique combination of direct experience and professional expertise to empower a special segment of owners. He believes that founders whose companies’ valuations fall within the $2-20 million range are often overlooked and undervalued by large firms chasing volume.

“At Vanla Group, we believe you deserve to partner with an adviser who’s been in your shoes,” says Cheetham. “Too many advisors will see your deal as just another transaction commission and rush through the process. But we’ve been where you are now. We know that this exit is a life-altering milestone for you, which is why we keep your goals and ideals front and center throughout the process.”

The Power of Personalized, SBA-Compliant Valuations

Vanla Group begins building trust with its commitment to personalized, SBA-compliant valuations. These comprehensive appraisals help owners understand their business’s true worth. It removes the guesswork and empowers founders to make confident, informed decisions about their exit.

“Going into negotiations well-prepared can end up saving you hundreds of thousands of dollars,” Cheetham stresses. “Selling on your own terms means knowing exactly where your business stands to set realistic expectations that reflect both market realities and your personal goals.”

Education and Transparency: Guiding Founders Every Step of the Way

Vanla Group empowers every founder with education to make informed decisions. Unlike typical M&A firms that push for the fastest deal, Cheetham and his team slow down the process, ensuring business owners understand their options.

For owners seeking a full-service package, Vanla Group offers a comprehensive, white-glove option. Their team begins the process by drafting a precise valuation and a professional Confidential Information Memorandum. They continue to manage all the details involved with targeted marketing, buyer qualification, and smooth closing. 

For busy owners, this option delivers peace of mind. It frees them from the complexities of deal management, allowing them to focus on the big picture.

Through personalized sessions with Cheetham and his team, owners learn how to effectively position their business, accurately price it, successfully navigate M&A negotiations, and avoid common pitfalls.

“No matter which path you choose, we customize every aspect of your sale,” explains Cheetham. “You won’t find any cookie-cutter solutions here. We craft all of our marketing campaigns and negotiation strategies to align with your business’s strengths and your personal aspirations.”

Why Vanla Group’s Approach Is Right for Today’s Small Business Market

The old “sell fast at any cost” mentality is fading as more business owners seek authenticity and transparency during their exit. Paul’s diverse background as an IT professional, financial planner, appraiser, and entrepreneur gives Vanla Group a unique ability to connect the dots between numbers, strategic thinking, and the human side of selling a business.

“Don’t miss the chance to sell your business on your own terms,” Cheetham concludes. “You want this exit to reflect your vision, not someone else’s agenda. We can help cut through the confusion in M&A because we’ve been where you are. Our role is to help you move forward confidently, knowing your legacy is protected.”

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or business advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance related to mergers, acquisitions, or business exits.