Start with a clean financial story
Gather three years of tax returns and financial statements, current year-to-date results, monthly revenue and membership trends, and a schedule of owner compensation and proposed add-backs. Reconcile billing reports with cash received. Label estimates and keep supporting documents for every adjustment.
Know what can transfer
Collect the lease and amendments, equipment ownership and finance agreements, key vendor contracts, franchise documents and membership terms. Identify items that may need landlord, lender, franchisor or customer consent. Ask your transaction professionals to review those requirements before marketing.
Show how the club operates
Document opening and closing routines, billing follow-up, staff responsibilities, sales follow-up and member onboarding. A buyer needs to understand which tasks rely on you and which can continue with the existing team.
Plan the first disclosure
Start with an anonymous business overview. Agree on confidentiality, buyer qualification and the order in which documents will be shared. Avoid including member names, health information, payment credentials or staff-sensitive information in early materials.
Prepare for the handoff
Outline the support you can provide after closing, the people who will lead the transition, and any seasonality or maintenance needs that should be budgeted. A realistic handoff plan gives both parties a better basis for negotiation.
Educational planning guidance. Consult qualified transaction, legal, tax and valuation professionals for your circumstances.