The Ultimate Post-Sale Wealth Plan: How to keep more of what you sell your business for
- Evo-Valuations
- Sep 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 7
Selling your business is the biggest financial event of your life. But here’s the truth most owners don’t hear until it’s too late:
It’s not just about what you sell for, it’s about what you keep after tax, fees, and debt are cleared. How to sell your business and keep more of the money is the key objective.
Without proper planning, a £1.2M sale can turn into £650k in the bank… or less.
1. Understand Your Net Proceeds
Before you get dazzled by the headline sale price, calculate what you’ll actually take home. Deduct:
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
Legal and advisory fees
Loan repayments and other liabilities
Want to calculate the exact number you’ll need? See How to Calculate Your Freedom Number
2. Get a Pre-Sale Tax Plan (Not Post-Sale Panic)
Tax planning after the deal is done is too late.
Explore Business Asset Disposal Relief (10% CGT on the first £1M)
Consider a holding company to defer gains
Gift shares to a spouse for tax efficiency
Look at EIS/SEIS reinvestment options
3. Decide Your Lifestyle Goals Before the Sale
Money without direction often disappears faster than you think.
Ask yourself:
Do I want to work again?
Will I invest, or live off the proceeds?
What lifestyle upgrades matter most to me?
4. Build a Post-Sale Investment Strategy
Even if you never plan to work again, you still need your money to work for you.
Keep an emergency buffer
Decide on a mix of safe vs growth investments
Consider passive income streams (dividends, property, index funds)
5. Avoid the “Now What?” Crash
Many owners underestimate the emotional shift after selling.
Plan for purpose as well as profit:
Travel, hobbies, or skill-building
Mentoring or angel investing
Philanthropy or community projects
Related Reading
Your Next Step
The Exit Smart. Retire Rich. 3-Year Exit Plan guide and Exit-Ready App include:
A Freedom Number calculator so you know your true target
A pre-sale tax planning checklist
Post-sale wealth planning tips to protect your proceeds
Progress tracking so you never lose sight of your financial goals
Your business is likely your biggest asset. Don’t leave its future, or your financial freedom, to chance. Start your 3-Year Exit Plan today and take control of your legacy.
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