Asked in Contracts for Tennessee

Q: A lady wants to buy my business for $1500/mo. For 60 mos. If she fails, how can I make sure I get my money? Collateral?

She may do great for a while but I need to make sure I get my money if she fails. What can I do? Should I even be considering this?

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2 Lawyer Answers
Zachary Scott Gainous
Zachary Scott Gainous
Answered
  • Nashville, TN
  • Licensed in Tennessee

A: You could require a security instrument or mortgage as part of the sale agreement.

If you go that route, the buyer must agree to put up some collateral (her home, vehicles, or her and/or the business' real estate, assets, or property) in case she misses or refuses to make a payment to you. This would enable you to take possession of the collateral and sell it in order to recover your money if she misses or fails to make a payment.

You should seek out a business attorney to advise you further and ideally represent you in this potential sale of your business.

Mr. James Charles Wright
Mr. James Charles Wright
Answered
  • Knoxville, TN
  • Licensed in Tennessee

A: You would need a recorded security interest in the assets of the Company and an agreement she can't pledge those assets as collateral or sell the business assets. also that she cannot sell her interest until the debt is paid This is assuming the business has hard assets worth enough to provide the collateral. You should also consider if the buyer has other collateral that could protect the amount. You should also require financial information on a monthly basis so that you can keep up with where things are. You may want to consider retaining a controlling interest in the entity but the buyer would operate. Upon full payment the remaining interest would transfer. You will likely need a lawyer to draw up the documents you need.

Anthony M. Avery and Zachary Scott Gainous agree with this answer

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